Dr Jen Westmoreland, a lifelong advocate for education, equity, and community engagement, has made significant contributions as a member and chair of the Hopkins School Board since 2018. She spearheaded the Vision 2031 strategic planning process and played a key role in transforming the district’s budget to align with community values.

Jen holds a doctorate in educational leadership and has dedicated her career to innovation and equity-driven programming in education.

Advocacy and Leadership:

Jen’s leadership style is characterized by authentic community engagement, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration across government levels. She serves on the Local Progress National School Board Steering Committee and the state organizing committee for Local Progress Minnesota, focusing on racial and economic justice.

LGBTQ+ Advocacy:

An active member of the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, Jen is proud to represent the queer community in elected office. Her work includes partnerships with LGBTQ+ youth, educators, and caregivers to support inclusion and safety for all LGBTQ+ members in the western suburbs.

Collaboration with Hennepin County:

Jen’s involvement with Hennepin County includes serving on the Heading Home Hennepin Continuum of Care Partnership to End Homelessness Executive Committee and advising on youth and school district issues for the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. She has also advocated for affordable housing solutions at the state level.

Personal Life and Community Roots:

Raised in Hopkins and Minnetonka by arts and education-minded parents, Jen is deeply committed to her community. She lives in Edina with her partner, Mary Moriarty, their child, and three cats, continuing her family's legacy of community involvement and public service.

Vision for District 6:

Jen envisions a vibrant future for District 6, emphasizing the importance of parks, local businesses, community centers, and schools in fostering a dynamic and inclusive community. She advocates for integrated approaches to public safety, economic development, and healthcare to meet the evolving needs of all community members.

Key Focus Areas:

Economic Development: Jen emphasizes supporting small businesses and creating economic opportunities to address worker shortages and economic challenges, fostering a thriving local economy.

Public Safety and Public Health:

Investing in mental health infrastructure and collaborative practices to enhance community safety and health is a priority, aiming to relieve burdens on law enforcement and promote well-being.

Climate Resilience:

Jen is committed to taking urgent action on climate change, advocating for sustainable practices and environmental justice to protect future generations.

Transit, Housing, and Economic Vitality:

Recognizing the interconnectedness of transit, housing, and economic vitality, Jen supports comprehensive approaches to transit development, affordable housing, and small business support.

Thriving Youth, Families, and Caregivers:

Jen prioritizes the needs of young people and families, advocating for integrated government systems and public funding to support community well-being.

Community Support, Connection, and Accessibility:

Fostering community connection and ensuring accessibility to county resources and services are central to Jen’s vision for a more inclusive and responsive Hennepin County.