Jr. Miss finds home in Troy

By AMY S. LANSDON

News Editor

After a busy, but fun summer Jennifer Martin has settled down in her new position as director of Special Projects for the city of Troy.

Jennifer graduated from Troy State University in May and headed to Europe for two weeks of vacationing. When she returned from Europe she headed straight for America’s Junior Miss where she volunteered for another two weeks.

"I did a lot of public relations and media work," Jennifer said. "I worked a lot with the media. I had the opportunity to see Richard Scrushy again and entertained the national sponsors."

Jennifer met Richard Scrushy while attending classes at TSU.

Being a part of the American Junior Miss program was nothing new for Jennifer, who already knew the ropes from being Rhode Island’s Junior Miss. And, it was the Junior Miss Program that brought her to Troy to attend TSU.

"Everyone asks me is it was a culture shock," Jennifer said. "Sure, it was, but I have really enjoyed it. It’s a lot different from Rhode Island from the food to the southern hospitality. I love the warm weather and I don’t miss the snow one bit, but I do miss my family a lot."

Jennifer’s journalism and public relations degree helped her land a job with the city of Troy. She said part of her job is helping Sheila Jackson, director of tourism for the city of Troy and the Pike County Chamber of Commerce.

"I write press releases, letters for the mayor and attend council meetings," Jennifer said. "I’m also working a lot with the Alabama Art Museum and writing and researching grants."

Jennifer has only been working for the city for about a month, but is on contract with the city for a year.

"I really love my job," she said. "It’s a lot of fun. I really enjoy getting to know people and the more people in Troy I meet the more I like the job. I like representing Troy when I’m out of town. And, I’m getting to use my degree, and a lot of people can’t say that."

In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys running and any type of exercise. She spends a lot of time volunteering at St. Martin’s Catholic Church, where she attends. She also enjoys reading and shopping, but volunteering is her main interest.

As for whether Jennifer will remain in the South forever is still a mystery.

"God has a plan for me and I’m just waiting it out," she said. "Sometimes I just wish I knew. It’s wonderful here and the only reason I would probably go back is to be with my family. I wish I could just bring them here."