Jen Smith grew up in Ashland and has spent most of her life in the Rogue Valley. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon and a master’s degree from Southern Oregon University. Jen devoted nearly 30 years to public service, working with several land management agencies as a fisheries biologist and budget analyst, and most recently serving in a management role before retiring last year.

Jen is passionate about the outdoors and enjoys hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, and traveling. She also enjoys yoga and reading, and is known for her excellent chocolate chip cookies.

Jen has served on the Medford Food Co-op (MFC) Board of Directors for the past two years and values the opportunity to work with such a productive and collaborative team. She is eager to continue supporting the effort to open a new and improved MFC. She understands the importance of this effort and the role the board will play in this work.

Jen believes the new Co-op will be a source of pride and enthusiasm for staff and patrons alike, while providing healthy, affordable options for everyone that comes through the doors. She believes people deserve access to healthy, sustainable, and affordable organic food and is honored to support that mission as a board member.