Editor’s note: The Times Herald invited Jill Cholewa, Oconto County family living agent since April 1, to introduce herself to the community by means of the following question-and-answer dialogue.
Q: Where were you born and where did you grow up?
A: I was born in Upper Michigan and grew up on a dairy farm in the small community of Bark River, located 15 miles west of Escanaba.
Q: Where else have you lived? I’ve lived in Louisville/Lexington, Kentucky; Hot Springs, Arkansas; and the North Chicago area.
Q: Is this your first time living in Wisconsin?
A: No. I lived in Wisconsin previously, in the village of Baldwin where I worked on a thoroughbred horse farm.
Q: Where are you living now?
A: I live near Chute Pond in the town of Mountain. It’s a gorgeous area for a nature fanatic like me. I’m anxious to discover several of the cross-country skiing trails next winter.
Q: Who’s in your immediate family?
A: I come from a modest-sized family. I have four siblings, three sisters and one brother.
Q: What are some of your hobbies and interests?
A: Vegetable gardening, hiking, horseback riding, yoga and cooking for friends and family. I always want to learn something new, so I think fishing is going to be next on my list.
Q: Where did you attend college and what degrees have you earned?
A: Michigan State University – associate degree in equine studies; University of Kentucky – Bachelor of Science in human nutrition and doctorate in nutritional sciences
Q: What is your past work experience?
A: I most recently worked for Shriners Hospitals for Children as clinical outcomes coordinator. My work entailed coordinating with health care team members to assess, plan and evaluate patient clinical outcomes and then merge these outcomes with current research findings to establish new teaching tools.
During my postgraduate work, I was fortunate to gain experience in the delivery of education programs through nutrition and health education and food resources and human development. As a whole, these past work experiences have taught me that people are a community’s most valuable resource.
Q: What interested you in the position of Oconto County family living agent?
A: The family living agent position is unique as it serves as a link between the university system and Oconto County by applying research-based information to issues affecting families and people in the county. On a personal note, this opportunity enables me to work in rural communities and to pool all my favorite passions -– teaching, research and serving my community — into a single career. That is priceless.
Q: What were your first impressions of Oconto County?
A: Oconto County covers such a large area and offers so much, from historical sites, vast farmland, phenomenal trail systems, rustic roads and outstanding lakes and rivers. It’s a true gem. Also, I frequently notice how each town has its own unique welcoming and personal charm. Everywhere I go, people are so comfortable. It’s like being at home.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish as family living agent?
A: To provide education programs that continue the University of Wisconsin-Extension tradition of improving our economy, strengthening families and building healthier communities. As Oconto County family living agent, I want to help people understand and solve daily problems at locations throughout the county and through trust and communication, build family living programs that help each community connect and thrive together.
Q: How have you spent your time during your first month as family living agent?
A: By getting to know each community and building relationships with agencies and community partners here in Oconto County.
