Jennifer Norton

Community Disaster Program Manager
American Red Cros
Honolulu, HI

• Master's Degree

• Leadership Institute for Military Spouses - Emerging Leaders Program
• Joan Orr Spouse of the Year - Squadron & Group 2024
• Civilian CAT 1 of the 2nd Qtr - Wing 2024
• Group Civilian of the Year - 2021
• Key Spouse of the Year - Squadron 2019
• Key Spouse of the Year - Wing 2018
• Joan Orr Spouse of the Year - Squadron 2018

• Alpha Xi Delta
• Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society
• Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society
• Sigma Iota Rho Honor Society
• Omicron Sigma Sigma, Order of the Sword & Shield
• Society for Collegiate and Academic Leadership

• American Red Cross

Q

What do you attribute your success to?

A Servant's Heart and an Unwavering Commitment to Growth.


To me, leadership is an extension of service. This philosophy has guided me through every season of my life, beginning when I was a stay-at-home mother. Seeking community, I joined a local Mother's of Preschoolers (MOPS) group, which quickly evolved from a source of support into an opportunity to lead. Even through the transitions of military life, I remained committed to board leadership, eventually serving as a Key Spouse or my husband’s squadron. In that role, I discovered a deep joy in advocating for military families and supporting the spouses who sacrifice so much for the mission.


As I transitioned into my federal career, I carried that same "mission-first" mindset into the professional sphere. I realized early on that success requires both a willingness to serve and the courage to seek mentorship. When I decided to pivot my career, I didn't just wait for an opening; I enrolled in a Master's Degree Program and proactively sought out a mentor within my target field.

My success is not the result of a single title, but of a consistent habit: identifying a need and stepping forward to meet it. Whether managing a volunteer board or navigating the complexities of the federal system, I have found that when you lead with a desire to help others thrive, the path to professional excellence follows naturally.

Q

What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Apply for the job, even if you don't meet all of the qualifications.

Q

What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?


Q

What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?


Q

What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Communication, trust, and honesty are my top three for both work and personal life.


In work, I look for teams that value input from everyone and leaders who are open to feedback from the team, regardless of position. Leaders or teams that allow or turn a blind eye to unprofessional conduct are teams that I will leave quickly.

Locations

American Red Cros

Honolulu, HI