Jenna-Rae Russo is a 2022 graduate of Stockton University by way of High Tech High School. Jenna is a former cheerleader of Cheer Dynamics All Stars, a nonprofit organization and is now a member of their board.
Jenna graduated with a major in Communications and a minor in Cannabis Studies and is now New Jersey CannaBusiness’ Deputy Executive Director.
University & Class
Stockton University ~ Class of 2022
Major
Communications
Tell us about your journey to your current job. What role(s) / opportunity did you get? How did you apply or get selected?
I became Executor Director of the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association. I made my initial connection by being an intern with them during college. I applied for this position when I graduated college as they were hiring.
What’s your favorite aspect of working in the cannabis industry?
A favorite aspect of mine is that my bosses allow me to be very included and very hands on when it comes to bringing new ideas to the table and running with opportunities. They make me so much better and give me a plethora of experience!
What’s a challenge you overcame that you’re proud of?
A challenge I overcame that I’m proud of was going from somewhere that I was unhappy and stressed and being pessimistic about where I could go next then achieving something much bigger.
Biggest inspiration for wanting work in the cannabis industry?
Like anyone else, I’m very passionate about cannabis. What initially drove me was people close to me suffering from addiction and seeing the difference cannabis could make.
How does advocacy and the legacy of the War on Drugs impact your work in cannabis if at all?
Advocacy is something I practice every day. In my role I always assist in testifying for legislation that impacts the industry & considering what is right for the people. I speak to people all of the time who have been impacted by the war on drugs and try to be the best advocate for them that I can be and try to put myself in their shoes. My bosses are always trying to give them the best advice they can and guide them in the right direction to be successful in this industry.
Where do you want yourself/business to be in 5 years?
In terms of a career goal, I would like to be broad and just say “In 5 years I want to be more successful, help as many people as possible, make a difference, & be happy.”
How has being involved in a college cannabis organization influenced your interests and/or involvement in the cannabis industry?
Being in a college cannabis organization helped me make friends that I’m able to relate to through a shared passion and share opportunities with.
