Her Story
About Jayne
Jayne Herring is a global engagement and nonprofit leader serving as President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Orange County. In this role, she leads the organization’s strategic direction, growth, and revitalization while advancing international dialogue, civic education, and cross-sector collaboration throughout Orange County. Her work focuses on building partnerships among business, government, academia, cultural institutions, and community organizations to connect local communities with global issues and opportunities.
Throughout her career, Jayne has specialized in strategic partnerships, community engagement, international affairs, and cross-cultural communication. Before becoming President and CEO, she served as Director of Special Events at Pacific Symphony, where she managed major fundraising initiatives, philanthropic partnerships, and high-profile events. She also held international and governance responsibilities with the International Council of Shopping Centers across multiple countries and has contributed to nonprofit, civic, human rights, and community initiatives. Her current work includes strengthening Orange County’s international business and diplomatic relationships and preparing the region for global events such as the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and FIFA World Cup activities.
Jayne earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Rights with a Public Policy focus and International Studies with an Asia focus from Southern Methodist University. Her international education included study programs in London and Japan, experiences that helped shape her passion for global affairs, travel, and cross-cultural understanding. She is also committed to human rights, refugee and immigrant rights, civil rights, and international understanding. Through her leadership, Jayne works to foster meaningful connections between people and institutions while demonstrating how global awareness can strengthen local communities and economic opportunity.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jayne
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong work ethic I developed growing up in Pennsylvania, along with the life-changing opportunity to study abroad at 16, which sparked my passion for global connection, empathy, and cross-cultural communication. I approach challenges as opportunities to learn, adapt, and find another way forward. I value resourcefulness, networking, and maintaining strong relationships, which I believe are essential to creating opportunities and achieving long-term success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is not to let other people’s opinions or doubts discourage me from pursuing my vision. I’ve learned to trust my goals, stay focused, and not allow someone who doesn’t share my perspective to stop me from moving forward.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering international affairs or the nonprofit sector is to be resourceful, build strong connections, and never hesitate to ask for help or guidance. There are more people willing to mentor and support you than you may realize. Approach relationships with an open mind, without always having an agenda, and focus on learning how you can support each other. You never know where a connection may lead, even years later.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge right now is the growing pressure on the nonprofit sector due to economic conditions, declining philanthropic giving, and a broader lack of empathy. International relations also faces challenges from increasing isolationist and nationalist perspectives. Despite this, I remain mission-driven and focused on demonstrating the value of global connection, empathy, and understanding. I believe these challenges also create an opportunity to educate people and strengthen connections both locally and internationally.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are empathy, clear and concise communication, and a strong sense of urgency. My early career in hospitality taught me the importance of making people feel seen, valued, and connected. Whether serving a customer, supporting a nonprofit mission, or building a professional relationship, I believe people ultimately seek meaningful connection, and I strive to lead with that mindset in everything I do.
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