Jessica Suggs — Transform Mid-Atlantic VISTA Leader

Jessica Suggs (She/Her)

About Jessica

Jessica Suggs is a seasoned project manager, adjunct professor, and public health professional with over 15 years of experience in the field, with a proven track record in project management, program design, and data analysis. She has made significant contributions as a Community Assessment Specialist for the AmeriCorps-OPEN-MSU VISTA Project, focusing on opioid prevention and treatment in low-income communities, and has served as an AmeriCorps VISTA in several capacities — including Catalyze VISTA and Learning Undefeated/MD Bio — focusing on program evaluation, curriculum improvement, and STEM education for underserved communities. She has also spearheaded initiatives to bridge service gaps, analyze qualitative data, and enhance programmatic curricula based on evidence-based research.

In the academic realm, Jessica has taught at institutions including Anne Arundel Community College, Towson University, and Eastern Washington University. As a Lecturer and Adjunct Professor in Health Sciences, she has developed and delivered engaging, evidence-based curricula and training materials for a wide array of courses, both virtually and in-person. Previously, Jessica served as a Training and Organizational Development Manager at HealthCare Dynamics International (HCDI), where she played a key role in curriculum development, client relations, and program evaluation.

Jessica holds an MS in Health Sciences – Community Health Education from Towson University and a BS in Biology from Morgan State University, with extensive expertise in community and public health, research, project management, higher education, program training design, data analysis, and instructional design.

Her Role

Supporting VISTA members and partner organizations by providing guidance, resources, and training that help strengthen community impact.

What She's Hoping to Learn

To strengthen her leadership skills while learning new ways to support capacity-building and community partnerships.

Her Personal "Why" for Serving

She enjoys helping organizations build sustainable programs that create lasting, positive change in communities.

The Big Debate

Pineapple on pizza?
Jessica's answer: Not her style — but it would need to pair with another topping.

One Fun Fact

Jessica is a new Game of Thrones fan (est. 2025).