Windings director of business integration, Jessica Emmeck receives Bronze Leadership award for volunteerism. Picture attached from left to right: Jessica Emmeck, Junior Achievement (JA) Board Member and Award Winner and Director of Business Integration at Windings Inc. Katie Mons, JA Director of MN Operations and Heather Braimbridge-Cox, President and CEO of Windings Inc.

NEW ULM – Junior Achievement North announced that Jessica Emmeck, a Director of Business Integration at Windings, Inc. in New Ulm, was awarded the organization’s Bronze Leadership Award for volunteerism.

The purpose of the Bronze Leadership Award is to recognize volunteers who have performed outstanding service to Junior Achievement through volunteerism, mentorship, and leadership. By sharing their personal and professional experiences with students, volunteers serve as positive role models and help students connect what they learn in school with life after graduation.

“Jessica is a wonderful example of how one person can positively impact young people in our community,” said Katie Mons, Director of Minnesota Operations at Junior Achievement North.

Jesica began her journey as a JA volunteer during the 2005-2006 school year and joined the board in Fall 2020.

“Supporting Junior Achievement and our local youth is incredibly important to me because I believe in the power of education–especially financial literacy–to change lives,” Emmeck said. “When we teach young people how to manage money, understand entrepreneurship, and prepare for the workforce, we’re giving them tools that will benefit them for a lifetime. These aren’t just classroom lessons; they’re life skills.

“Volunteering through Junior Achievement allows business professionals like me to step into local classrooms and make a real, personal impact. The energy is contagious; students are genuinely excited to see us walk through the door. They look up to us, they ask great questions, and you can see their confidence grow with every interaction.

This connection between schools and the business community is so important. It helps bridge the gap between education and the real world. By giving a little of our time, we help create a stronger, more informed, and more inspired generation. That’s something I’m proud to support.”

For information on the ways you can partner with Junior Achievement North, email Katie at Katie.Mons@janorth.org