
Client & Community Voices
Why They Trust Jennifer (Jenn) Murray
Here, you’ll hear from students, families, and community members who have experienced Jenn’s leadership firsthand. Their stories reflect her compassion, dedication, and the real-world impact of her work.

Testimonials
Kelly Hoenig, RN, CNOR
Carolina East Health Care
New Bern, NC
"I have known Jenn since high school, and we worked together at Perkins during that time. Working with Jenn is pure joy. She pushes herself hard and sets the bar high, encouraging me to work smarter and harder and embrace a team approach.
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Jenn is dedicated, loyal, and truthful. She leads by working right alongside you and will never ask you to do something she wouldn't do herself. She is known for her dedication and hard work."
Dawn Newman
Blackhawk Facilitation LLC
Parrish, FL Barnum, MN
"We are professional colleagues who have worked together to assist the Fond du Lac community. Working with Jenn is easy-going, truthful, and respectful—she gets things done and makes strategy happen.
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Jenn is educated, a strong leader, responsible, forthcoming, respectful, caring, and analytical. Her direct approach and strategic planning make her an effective and inspiring leader. As a high school principal, board president, and leader, she is known for working hard to improve systems, never giving up, and creating opportunities for those she supervises.
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Jenn is an open-hearted, direct instigator of change. She wants to make strategies happen that work for a better tomorrow. She is a supportive professional who is willing and open to working out and through obstacles. I enjoy working with her."
Catherine Chavers
Former Bois Forte Chairwoman
Orr, MN
"I have known Jennifer for many years through my involvement in Tribal Government since 2016. She has worked with all Tribal Education departments and the American Indian Parent Committee, always bringing motivation, compassion, and solutions to the table.
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Jennifer is compassionate, caring, motivated, honest, and professional. She is a strong advocate for Indian Education and our youth, always willing to help, and deeply passionate about her work. Her leadership is evident in meetings and conferences—she listens, follows policies, and leads with integrity.
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Jennifer is an asset wherever she works. She is professional, personable, and respectful, with a great ability to speak and connect with others. Her dedication to culture, education, and healing makes her a great leader and advocate."
Jane Harstad
MDE
Minneapolis, MN
"I met Jen through TNEC and the Fond du Lac Ojibwe School. Working with her is awesome—she is honest, authentic, and logical.
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Jen is real, professional, and caring. She handles tough conversations honestly and professionally, making them helpful rather than harsh. She knows education, people, negotiation, and how to give real, authentic feedback.
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She is wicked smart, deeply dedicated to her community, and works for others, not personal gain. When I was new to a tribally controlled school, Jen welcomed me, helped me learn, and was always there when I had questions. She’s a mentor, leader, and friend—no nonsense, just the truth."
Maria Burnett
Grand Portage Reservation Grand Portage, MN
"I know Jen through our work with the Tribal Nations Education Committee. Working with her is always informative, educational, and professional—she brings a wealth of knowledge and patience to every meeting.
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Jen is compassionate, intelligent, and dedicated. She listens thoughtfully, respects different opinions, and finds solutions that work for everyone. Her expertise in academics, finance, and motivation makes her a strong leader.
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She is known for her objectivity, sincerity, and sense of humor, which puts people at ease. Working with Jen is a learning experience, and I would gladly collaborate with her on any project."
R. Sonny Peacock
Fond du Lac Tribal College
Cloquet, MN
"I had the opportunity to work with Jen, and she is a dedicated professional who prepares thoroughly and finds answers to tough questions. She is a hard worker, conscientious of her impact on programs and people, and leads from the front.
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With deep knowledge of federal and state education programs, Jen is a tough negotiator and a respected figure in K-12 education. Even beyond her retirement as Superintendent, her expertise continues to influence local, city, and state educators. Leading a school through COVID without missing a step speaks volumes about her talent in education and administration.
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Jen also has a great sense of humor, which helps ease tension during difficult decision-making moments."
Ferdinand Martineau
FDL Band Member
Cloquet, MN
"I’ve worked with Jenn on the reservation, and she is focused and thorough in her work.
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Jenn is honest, hard-working, open-minded, and always pays attention to detail. She looks at all sides before making decisions, which makes her a strong and effective leader. Her expertise in accountability, ethics, and experience sets her apart.
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Jenn is known for tirelessly working for the community and helping students succeed. Through her leadership, I’ve watched her become a pillar in the community. She will make a great Secretary/Treasurer."
Kristen Aeikens
Project Consultant
Saint Paul, MN
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Jenn through her leadership at the Fond du Lac Ojibwe School and, more recently, as the FDL alternate representative and treasurer for the Tribal Nations Education Committee.
Working with Jenn is an inspiring experience—she is a true professional, deeply engaged, and highly knowledgeable. She is a fierce advocate for Native communities and children, always ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Jenn’s leadership is defined by her ability to navigate difficult conversations with grace, making sure all perspectives are acknowledged while standing firm in her commitment to advocacy. She is persuasive, thoughtful, and unwavering in her cultural approach and service to others.
Her expertise spans education, advocacy, and group leadership, and she is widely known for getting things done with honor, respect, and deep-rooted expertise. Above all, Jenn leads with authenticity and a relentless drive to uplift Native children and communities.
Working alongside Jenn is truly a gift. She challenges those around her in the best ways and brings a sense of joy and purpose to her work. I admire her unwavering dedication and believe the world needs more leaders like her.
Emey Vaillancourt
Retired Registered Nurse
Babcock Ranch, FL
Jenn is a hardworking, trustworthy leader who constantly looks for ways to improve efficiency and create a better work environment. She has excellent communication skills, unwavering integrity, and a direct yet tactful approach to challenges. Her ability to adapt, solve problems, and persevere makes her an asset in any setting.
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Beyond work, Jenn is a loyal friend with a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She is deeply respected and always goes above and beyond in everything she does.
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Jenn has been an ambassador for her tribe throughout her career, dedicated to uplifting the next generation while honoring their heritage. She will be a valuable asset in any endeavor she pursues.
Tamara Smith
Retired Teacher
Duluth, MN
I first met Jenn when she was 13, a Washington Junior High School student. Even then, she set ambitious goals and worked hard to achieve them.
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Jenn leads by example with honesty, integrity, and a strong work ethic. She has high expectations, follows through on commitments, and stands up for what she believes in. Her dedication to her community is unwavering.
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She tells it like it is—fair, determined, and deeply committed to making a difference. I have admired her drive from the start and continue to respect all she has accomplished.
