I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Barrington Junior Women's Club president, Jacqui Pieroni.  Read on to learn more about Jacqui and the many things keeping her busy. 

How long have you lived in the area?

I grew up in nearby McHenry and graduated from McHenry West Campus High School in 2010. I moved to the Barrington area in 2016 when I met my now husband, Adam. I absolutely love our neighborhood and the beautiful forest preserves nearby. I love to be outside in nature, so my soul is happy here. 

How did you and Adam meet?

The old-fashioned way! I met my husband Adam through mutual friends. Funny enough, we both grew up in the same town, but attended different high schools and never knew each other.

I know you have a career that you love, what is it you do?

I love helping others, so I started my career in healthcare twelve years ago. I have worked in private practices and at Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington. I found that I really enjoyed the administrative side of healthcare, so transitioning to an Executive Assistant felt like the right move for me. I currently work for the Chief Executive Officer of a nation-wide healthcare organization. We have grown tremendously over the past five years, so I continue to learn new things and develop new skills.  In addition to my current role, I’ve been working on a new business venture as a Lifestyle Manager for a variety of C-Suite clients. I’m excited to keep growing and going, even beyond healthcare.

What do you like best about your work, and what is the most challenging aspect of it? 

In college, I studied Organizational Psychology, which is my true passion. I really believe it’s important for leaders to genuinely care for their employees, so that their team can genuinely care for their clients or patients. Because of my background and experience, I’ve been able to help lead our employee engagement committee and create initiatives that promote a healthy, happy culture within our growing organization. With all corporate growth, you can expect a few growing pains. It’s important to be flexible and embrace the challenges as a way to learn and evolve. My goal is to continue to keep learning as much as I possibly can both personally and professionally. I’m fortunate to have great mentors to help me along the way. I never want to become too complacent.

We are both members of the Barrington Junior Women's Club.  Please tell us about your exciting role. 

Yes! I am currently the President of Barrington Junior Women’s Club. Our organization helps to support women, children, and seniors in the Chicagoland area through fundraising efforts and volunteerism. This month, we awarded scholarships to Barrington High School seniors and financial grants to several local organizations. Through my involvement in BJWC, I’ve gotten to work with other nonprofits, such as Barrington Giving Day, and help support their missions as well. When we all work together, amazing things happen! Barrington Junior Women’s Club is hosting a “Midsummer Masquerade” on June 29 at the Sanfilippo Estate. Funds raised at that event will go towards BJWC’s Philanthropy efforts for the upcoming year. It’s going to be a fun event, and it’s open to the public! You can purchase tickets or donate at www.bjwc.org/summer

How do you divide your time between work, family, and self-care?

My career and volunteer work keep me extremely busy! However, I still prioritize self-care. I’m naturally introverted, so to re-energize myself, I like to pop in my AirPods and walk a couple miles around the Fox River Forest Preserve, while listening to an audiobook or podcast. Once I feel recharged, I try to have weekly date nights with my husband and time with my friends and family. I’ve had the same core group of friends for over 25 years, and I know what a rare gift that is! I have two dogs, Hank and Pearl who are my babies.  We love to binge our favorite reality shows together, as well as Suits, Baby Reindeer, and Big Bang Theory.  It's our guilty pleasure.

Where do you and your husband like to grab a bite to eat?

We love to have brunch at Hampton Social in South Barrington! The food and atmosphere make it such a fun place to be, even in the winter. Another favorite that’s close to our home is the Broken Oar in Port Barrington. You cannot beat the river views and summer vibes! You can even bring your dogs on certain days of the week which makes it fun.

What kind of books do you like to read?

I read a lot! I primarily read books related to the brain and personal development. It’s what I enjoy learning about, and it’s been really helpful for me in all areas of life. I’m known to always have a book recommendation for everything. I am involved in THREE book clubs, it’s a little out of control.

What is a little-known fact or talent about yourself?

Many people don’t know this, but I am deaf in my left ear. I lost my hearing when I was 20 after needing several surgeries on that ear. I have a hearing aid now. Despite my hearing loss, I play acoustic guitar and lead worship at my church. I’ve sang most of my life, so I am fortunate to able to continue music even after losing my hearing.

What was the best purchase you made in the last year that cost under $100.00?

An inflatable mini pool for my backyard! It’s a must have for hot summer days when I’m outside with the dogs. My neighbors might think I’m crazy, but I love it.

Have you crossed anything off your bucket list? If so, tell us about what you have done.

In 2021, I surprised my husband with a trip to Paris for his birthday/New Years. We rang in the new year on the lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower with a bottle of champagne.  Definitely a bucket list moment!

Who has been most influential in your life?

My dad has been one of the greatest influences in my life. He taught me to always work hard and keep going, no matter what life throws at you. He’s a legend.

If you could do anything different when starting your career, what would it be?

I really don’t have any career regrets, but I wish I started earlier. I took a few years off just out of high school and waited until my late twenties to go to college. Although, I do believe that my experiences in my late teens/early twenties shaped me as a person, so I wouldn’t take it back.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Probably enhanced vision because my vision is terrible and the special contact lenses I have to wear are expensive! LOL!

What advice can you offer the class of 2024?

Always be yourself. The world needs authentic people to keep showing up as who they truly are and display their own unique gifts. We are all different for a reason and
comparison really is the thief of joy. You are you and that is the most perfect thing.

You can contact Jacqui and learn more about the Barrington Junior Women's Club and the wonderful work they do by visiting their website.   

Barrington Junior Women’s Club - www.bjwc.org
Midsummer Masquerade Tickets - www.bjwc.org/summer
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jacquipieroni
Email: jacquipieroni@gmail.com