Jessica “Bird” Brown ‘09, ‘12

Jessica “Bird” Brown ‘09, ‘12

Jessica’s journey has always been about connection, celebration, and leadership. A proud graduate of the University of North Georgia, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees on the Dahlonega campus and dedicated 15 years of her career to serving students at UNG. Known affectionately as Bird, she built a legacy of mentoring student leaders, planning milestone events like commencement, and creating programs that helped students discover their strengths and find their place. Her impact was recognized with awards including the Eleanor Crawford Award, the North Star Award, and the Nighthawk Spirit Award.

UNG also shaped her personal life — it’s where she met her wife, Tyler, which she calls her favorite UNG memory. Bird often says the best parts of her life – her career, her calling, and her family – all trace back to UNG. Those years instilled in her the belief that when people feel seen, celebrated, and connected, they thrive.

Today, Bird is co-founder and CEO of Crowded Table Events and Director of Innovation and Operations at ConnectAbility, a nonprofit advancing inclusion and belonging in the community. She also serves on the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, is Chair Elect of the Inspire Women’s Leadership Program, and supports future leaders through programs like Leadership Lumpkin County and Lumpkin Youth Leadership.

From the campus she once called home to the community she now serves, Bird remains committed to creating spaces where people grow, connect, and celebrate life’s best moments. She is honored to be named to this year’s class of 20 Under 40 recipients.