PW Classmates: What do you do now for work? And what has your career path been?

Jane Hendron: About eight months ago, I retired after 29 years as a Public Affairs Specialist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

I was married to a Navy pilot, and we received orders to move to Ventura County, California, in 1994. I had just gotten a job offer in Virginia, so I had to start over in a new state. Fortunately, there was an interesting temporary job open at a National Wildlife Refuge office near where we lived, and I was able to parlay that into a contractor position and then a full-time permanent position. From there, I moved over to the endangered species and regulatory side of the agency and took a promotion to the Carlsbad field office in San Diego County.

The Carlsbad office is one of the busiest Fish and Wildlife Offices in the country for endangered species conservation and recovery. I handled media and Congressional relations across Southern California, along with special event planning, and supervising an incredible team of GIS, public affairs and technical information professionals.

In my time with the Fish and Wildlife Service I saw some amazing habitats and species, from tiny Pacific pocket mice to California condors to Island foxes and rare plants. Lots of great memories. Right now, I’m getting used to retirement. No specific plans, but will include lots of house projects, cross-stitching, volunteering and gardening.

PW Classmates: Are you married? Since when?

Jane: I am divorced. Luckily, I found my amazing partner, Bryan, and we have been together for 14 years. Kids were not in the cards for me, but I have a wonderful family and a great circle of friends.

PW Classmates: What did you dream of becoming when you were in high school?

Jane: I did not have a particular career path in mind when I graduated. I have always been interested in government and am lucky to have enjoyed a career that combined the civil service and wildlife conservation – two of my passions.

PW Classmates: Where did you go to college, grad school, etc.?

Jane: I have a BA from Washington College and an MA from Old Dominion University.

PW Classmates: What advice would you give to your high school self?

Jane: I’d probably tell myself not to rush to get to the next thing. Take more time to savor memories.

PW Classmates: What advice do you have for others about creating your best life?

Jane: Everyone has different goals and wants so it is hard to give generalities. What has always stood me in good stead is to be true to myself and move through life with kindness.

PW Classmates: What would you like to say to all of your classmates today?

Jane: A big HELLO to everyone in the Class of 82! I did not make it to the 40th reunion but will not miss the next one.

Connect with Jane: Email hendja64@att.net • on Facebook at jane.hendron