Jessica Gortner

I’m a passionate and mission-driven marketer, communicator, strategist, storyteller, and brand/UX evangelist. Yeah, it’s a lot. Marketing is a crazy world and I’m just living in it.   

As a first-generation college graduate, I’ve always been passionate about the power of education. In addition to an agency/tech background, I’ve spent close to two decades serving the higher ed sector—as an on-campus marketing leader (both at large public and small private institutions) and as a content strategy consultant for major higher ed brands across the country.

I’ve witnessed firsthand how college students and campus communities are feeling the effects of rising polarization. And I truly believe what we do at Unify America is powerful, impactful, and needed. I couldn’t be more honored to further the mission. 

While my favorite color is aqua, you might just color me purple based on the communities I’ve called home. A Midwesterner, born and bred in the very blue state of Illinois, I’m originally from Chicagoland but with deep Central Illinois roots. I spent a few years in the very red state of Iowa, and now live in the very purple state of North Carolina. 

With friends and family across the political spectrum, let’s just say I know how to share my crayons.