40 under 40: Jenna Palacio, Barton Health

  Tahoe Chamber  |   August 28, 2018   |   40 Under 40

A communications and public relations expert, Jenna Palacio cares deeply about South Lake Tahoe, which has been her home for about 10 years.

That’s evident by the number of organizations she contributes and volunteers for, such as the South Lake Tahoe Planning Commission and Progress for Tahoe. It’s also evident from the time she moved from Tahoe to the coast, but moved back after two years after reaffirming that Tahoe was home.

“There was no question in determining where we wanted to go to bed and wake up every day—it was South Lake Tahoe,” Jenna said. “Yes, it’s a challenging market to pursue your career, but there is a very special work-life balance and network of amazing people that we have connected ourselves with.”

Jenna serves as a Public Relations Specialist with Barton Health and she’s in charge of keeping the community informed about their local health care system. Luckily, there’s been nothing but good news to share from Barton. Jenna is joined by her husband, Matt Palacio, as the Chamber’s 40 under 40 honorees this week. Congratulations, Jenna!

Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?

I share news from Barton Health and keep the community informed about what’s going on within their local health care system. Whether creating strategies through my own public relations consulting practice, leading visitor bureaus communications departments, and now helping get the good word out about new medical equipment at Barton, my 12 years in public relations has always been focused on working with organizations that enrich the lives of others.

There is so much great news to share with Barton’s services, quality facilities, new technology outstanding care providers, and programs geared to helping our community. And that’s no spin. As a community member, I take great pride in what our local health care system offers – especially for its size and remote location.

What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?

2018 was a transitional year for me; personally and professionally. I transitioned from my previous position running the Work Experience & Internship Program at Lake Tahoe Community College and came aboard Barton Health’s Public Relations Department. It was a tough decision but I’m so glad to be working in such a rewarding and challenging environment that’s on the cutting edge of its industry. I’m a member of an outstanding, hard-working team that fosters a positive company culture.

In other news, my husband Matt and I are expecting our first child at the end of September. This starts a new adventure for us and to say I’m excited about the future would be an understatement. I can’t wait to raise a kiddo here Tahoe. And of course, I’ll be delivering at Barton’s Family Birthing Center.

Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?

I’m an eternal optimist and strive to approach my life and work with love, gratitude and positivity. Under that is a layer of relentless, competitive drive burnt into my soul from growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area.

What was your first job?

My first job was at a busy coffee shop in the Bay Area that I started when I was 16 years old. I think everyone should work at least one year in a customer service-related position to learn how to interact with people. Planning my maternity leave has been surreal as this is the first time I’ve not worked since my first job.

Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?

The road to deciding to put down roots in Tahoe was a long one. Matt and I lived here happily for just under five years, making many friends, getting married at Tahoe Paradise Park, and living the dream. But, I began to feel professionally “stuck” and soon found myself accepting a position at the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau as its Communications Director.

It wasn’t long after moving to the coast that Matt and I realized although the area was a fabulous place to visit, it wasn’t our “forever” place to live. There was no question in determining where we wanted to go to bed and wake up every day. It was South Lake Tahoe. Yes, it’s a challenging market to pursue your career. But yes, there is a very special work/life balance and network of amazing people that we had connected ourselves with.

Just 21 months after leaving, we moved back to South Lake Tahoe. We came back affirmed in our decision to be residents here and committed to buying our first home, starting a family and getting involved in our community.

Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?

I am proud to serve my community on the South Lake Tahoe Planning Commission. I’ve learned so much about the City’s infrastructure, redevelopment (and its many road blocks) and planning processes in this role. I’ve been involved with Tahoe Regional Young Professionals (TRYP) as a board member since we’ve moved back, working to launch professional development and civic engagement programs as well as TRYP’s Tahoe Town Hall forums. I also volunteer on the steering committee for Progress for Tahoe, a newer group of forward-thinking individuals that are working to elevate issues to address housing, transportation issues and socio-economic issues our community is struggling with.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

In the winter, I snowboard. In the summer, I like camping and spending time at the beach. I also enjoy cooking and am a total wine nerd. Really, anything that brings me together with friends and family.

Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?

Outside, you’ll find me at Fallen Leaf Lake with my two dogs, or on the backside of Kirkwood. Inside, I’ll be at Naked Fish taking their Maui Wowie roll to task. I’ve also been known to hoist a pint or two at South Lake Brewing Company. If there’s some 90’s or Bay Area hip hop playing, you might find me on the dance floor.

Get in touch with Jenna today:
Email Jenna
Barton Health