Jenna Koch, LMSW
Jenna Koch, LMSW is a dynamic and innovative professional, currently serving as a People Consultant in the Government and Public Sector at EY and as a Program Associate at Twist Out Cancer. As a creative strategist and Licensed Master Social Worker, Jenna combines analytical insight with empathy-driven leadership to design programs, communications, and initiatives that inspire engagement and deliver measurable impact. Her expertise spans consulting, social impact, and nonprofit sectors, enabling her to bridge organizational strategy with storytelling to cultivate meaningful connections across diverse audiences.
At Twist Out Cancer, Jenna leverages her skills to support programs that empower cancer patients and survivors through creative arts, emphasizing the healing power of storytelling and community. Her professional versatility is further demonstrated through roles in wellness, therapy, content creation, and fitness coaching, reflecting a holistic approach to human-centered solutions, employee engagement, and community-driven growth. Jenna is recognized for her ability to integrate empathy, structure, and innovation into every initiative, ensuring programs not only meet organizational goals but also foster inclusion, collaboration, and long-lasting impact.
Jenna earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland Graduate School, where she was honored as the 2024 Graduate School of Social Work Student of the Year, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from the University of Maryland – Robert H. Smith School of Business, with a minor in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship. She holds certifications including Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Human Services Management, reflecting her commitment to professional excellence, continuous learning, and leadership at the intersection of innovation, social impact, and community empowerment.
• Licensed Masters Social Worker
• Human Services Management Certificate
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• TRX Qualified Coach
• University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies - MSW
• University of Maryland - Robert H. Smith School of Business - BS
• University of Maryland - BA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of dedication, curiosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Earning my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from the University of Maryland – Robert H. Smith School of Business in 2021 provided me with a strong foundation to integrate strategic thinking with empathy-driven leadership. These experiences have empowered me to approach challenges creatively, drive meaningful impact, and continuously grow both personally and professionally.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received has come from two incredible mentors. Jenna Benn-Shersher, founder of Twist Out Cancer, guided me through my career and served as a personal and professional inspiration even before I pursued formal education. She taught me the importance of combining passion with purpose and leading with authenticity. I also deeply admire Emelia Hanrahan, COO of Twist Out Cancer, who leads with empathy and a mission-driven focus while remaining behind the scenes. From her, I learned that true leadership is not about recognition, but about making an impact and empowering others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to regularly check in with yourself to reflect on where you want to go, take calculated risks, and stay curious. Embracing self-reflection and a growth mindset will help you navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a meaningful and fulfilling career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are connection, creativity, and well-being. I cherish time with my family, enjoy expressing myself through art and painting, and find inspiration in the creative process. I prioritize maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise, CrossFit, and running, and I am deeply committed to conservation and environmental causes, striving to make a positive impact both personally and professionally.