Biography

     Jessica Ward has been with the College of the Arts Business Office staff for the past 15 years. Directly after graduating High School she enlisted in the United States Navy. She traveled the world for the 8 years of active duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and other campaigns. Taking college courses while deployed she was able to complete several Naval Education Certifications and advanced to a Second Class Petty Officer. She then worked in private avaition before coming on board with the College of the Arts at UF in the Summer of 2010 as Fiscal Assistant II managing Student Fees.

     She was the 2019-2020 Staff Council Chair and is again serving as Staff council Co-Chair for the upcoming Academic 2025-2026 year. Serving the needs and involvement of all COTA staff. When she is not working at UF, Jessica enjoys spending time with her two grown chrildren on day trips around North Central Florida, reading and home remodeling projects. She also participates in local and online LGBTIQA+ support and groups.