Her Story
About Jacquelle
Jacquelle Safforld has built a career spanning more than 26 years across human services and government, driven by a steady commitment to lifting up vulnerable communities. She currently works within the HFS department, where her responsibilities include resolving claims, developing hospital budgets, and administering supplemental payments that help low-income individuals, mothers, infants, and retirees access Medicaid and Medicare-supported healthcare. Before moving into government roles six years ago, she spent nearly two decades in human services, including work as a certified nursing assistant and time spent in foster care services, where she supervised family visits and helped reunite families with the support systems they needed.
Education has played a defining role in Safforld's path. She completed her Master of Public Administration with a concentration in emergency and disaster management at the University of Illinois at Chicago, a milestone she reached while single-handedly raising five children — an achievement she considers among her proudest. She is now working toward a Master's degree in nursing, with an eye toward eventually deploying as a licensed nurse alongside the American Red Cross during disaster response efforts. Her volunteer work with the Red Cross already reflects this calling, as she helps individuals displaced by house fires secure emergency housing and connect with essential resources.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Safforld is active in several organizations, including the Institute of Emergency Managers, a public administrators' group, and a public policy organization, all of which align with her dedication to public service and community impact. She speaks candidly about the imposter syndrome many women face in their careers, encouraging young women entering the field to stay committed to themselves, resist minimizing their achievements, and trust in the recognition of those around them. Grounded in humility, resilience, and a deep belief in sisterhood, Safforld's story continues to be shaped by service — both to the families she supports professionally and to those she helps through her volunteer efforts.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jacquelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance and education, particularly earning my first master's degree while raising five children as a single mother. I also credit the many people who stepped in to support me at the exact moments I needed it most.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up. Stay committed to yourself and to the process. Don't shrink yourself for anybody. Remember that we all experience imposter syndrome at some point — you may not feel like you deserve the recognition, but trust yourself and trust the people who see your accomplishments.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I see is inefficiency within government systems and processes. At the same time, I recognize real opportunities to use my position to influence policy, allocate funding more effectively, and expand access to care for vulnerable populations. Networking, mentorship, and sisterhood also present valuable opportunities for professional growth.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Community service, sisterhood, and mutual support are central to who I am. I also deeply value humility and making the most of limited resources to help others, without expecting anything in return.
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