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Esteemed Speaker

Jessica Gifford

Founder and Chief Connection Officer, ProjectConnect

Full Bio


Jessica works with colleges to build stronger connection and community on campus—for both students and employees—because feeling connected is crucial to mental health and well-being, retention, and success. Jessica created the ProjectConnect program, which provides an evidence-based step-by-step roadmap for building relationships in small groups.

Jessica offers facilitator certification training on the ProjectConnect model, as well as talks and workshops on connection. Over 75 organizations have used the ProjectConnect program to build connection.

Jessica has a master's degree in social work. She began her career providing individual and group counseling before moving into developing and delivering programs that improve well-being on a larger scale.