Her Story
About Jenna
Jenna Udenberg is a nonprofit founder, disability advocate, and accessibility educator based in the Greater Duluth Area of Minnesota. She is the Founder and President of Above & Beyond With U, an organization dedicated to creating more accessible and inclusive spaces through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Before launching her nonprofit, Jenna built a distinguished 19-year career as a music educator, developing inclusive programs such as adaptive music, beginning band, high school choir, and jazz ensembles across parochial, charter, and public schools.
Jenna’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion is shaped by her extensive education and leadership experiences. She earned a double bachelor’s degree in Music Education (instrumental and vocal) from the University of Minnesota Duluth and a Master of Education from the College of St. Scholastica with a focus in technology integration. She is a 2020 Bush Fellow and has participated in several leadership programs, including the Shannon Leadership Institute and the Blandin Community Leadership Program. Her work has been recognized through honors such as the Journey Award from the Miller-Dwan Foundation, Coach of the Year for High-Tech Kids Robotics, and the Lake County Volunteer of the Year Award.
Through Above & Beyond With U and her community involvement, Jenna continues to champion disability rights, accessibility education, and inclusive community development. She is also a published author and columnist, a supporter of the Gitchi-Gami Trail Association, and a coach for the Robo Dweebs LEGO robotics team. Jenna attributes her success to the support of her family, her community, her faith, and the belief that people thrive through interdependence and collective action.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jenna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support of my community, the collaboration of those around me, and the strong foundation of faith and personal values that guide my journey. I believe true success is never achieved alone; it is built through meaningful relationships, encouragement, and the shared contributions of family, colleagues, and mentors. Staying grounded in my values allows me to remain authentic, resilient, and focused despite challenges and changes along the way.
02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in my field right now is navigating generational change while ensuring organizations continue to thrive. As experienced professionals transition out of leadership roles, newer generations have the opportunity to preserve valuable knowledge while introducing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and modern engagement strategies. At the same time, addressing sustainable funding and participation challenges requires adaptability, collaboration, and a commitment to building stronger connections across generations.
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