Delivering More Than Care: A Journey of Compassion and Commitment
April 2025
In her role as Director, Certification & Continuing Education, Jessica Barker is dedicated to walking alongside our community members through their professional development. Whether pursuing a designation as a CPXP or CAVS, members of The Beryl Institute can rely on Jessica as a trusted mentor for a seamless and simple certification process.
Growing up as the oldest of four and the only granddaughter on my dad’s side, I learned the value of responsibility early on. Surrounded by brothers, uncles, and boy cousins, I balanced a childhood of farm work with special time in the kitchen alongside my grandmother. This unique upbringing shaped me into a natural caretaker and overachiever—always looking out for others and taking on more than most. It’s no surprise that this drive led me to become a foster parent, dedicating my life to making a difference in children’s lives.
When I’m not busy caring for my family, I find joy on the soccer field. As a coach for the past decade, I have helped players from ages two to nineteen develop their skills and love for the game. I also run a large local recreational soccer league, fostering a strong sense of community through the sport.
Beyond soccer, I enjoy reading, hiking, spending time outdoors with my kids, and capturing special moments through photography whenever I get the chance.
Few people know that before my current career, I worked as an EMT while pursuing a pre-med track in college. One of my most unforgettable experiences was delivering a baby on the side of the road during a snowstorm—a moment that felt straight out of a movie. Though it was terrifying at the time, it was also one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. My time as an EMT reinforced my deep commitment to serving others, a passion that has carried through every chapter of my life’s journey.
About the Spotlight Series:
You know our faces. You know our names and roles. But do you know about our passions outside of The Beryl Institute? Probably not, so we'd like to change that.
Welcome to The Spotlight Series, a monthly series highlighting the team members of The Beryl Institute. Each month, one member of our team will share interesting facts about their life outside the Institute. It is said The Beryl Institute is like "family," and we aim to expand on this sentiment through greater insight into the human beings behind our Institute titles. We hope you enjoy connecting with us in this way. May the power of connection bring us closer together as a community.
