What happens when you combine your love of music with a supportive, encouraging work community?  An Associate in Fine Arts Music program emerges that integrates elements of theatre.  Being the Program Chair of Fine Arts at LCC has allowed Jessica to inspire and encourage musicians and artists in multiple performance venues, and Ragtime, is one of those.  Jessica fell in love with the story and music, after being introduced to it by her dear friend and theatre mentor, Judy Long.   After hearing her colleague, Jordan, talk, for years, about his vision for the show, she knew she wanted to be part of the project and had the perfect performance venue for it. She is thrilled to help bring this show to life on the stage in the newly renovated Briley Auditorium.  What excites her more than anything is sharing the experience with her family.  Jessica has an extremely supportive husband who, for more than 20 years, has walked alongside her, helping her pursue her dreams.  Together, they have five children who continue to be the reason she works diligently in the arts.  "The arts are so important to the creative experience we, as humans, need to survive in this world.  They provoke us to ponder, reflect, feel, and grow in ways nothing else in this world can.  I want those experiences for my children."  Jessica was reintroduced to theatre as an adult in New Bern when she was cast in Les Miserables under the direction of Judy Long.  The experience ignited a flame inside her and led to many theatrical opportunities both on and of the stage.  She remains grateful to the countless people who support and encourage her every day.  Big Hugs!