Jewish Chicago Magazine

Jodi epitomizes what it means to be a lifelong learner.
 
She has built an exceptional 11-year career at Abbott Laboratories, with experience spanning manufacturing and quality roles across six divisions. Jodi has made a global impact as a leader in Abbott’s Women in STEM employee network, serving as the former Global Chair and current Finance Chair. She also invests in future talent through university recruiting and mentorship and currently serves on the Biomedical Engineering External Advisory Board of Washington University in St. Louis—her alma mater.
 
Jodi’s curiosity, generosity, and commitment to community make her a powerful example of a modern Jewish leader. A lifetime Hadassah member, her lifelong connection to Jewish life began early on through synagogue and USY involvement. She regularly volunteers through JUF Tikkun Olam Volunteer Network (TOV), Repair the World, and JUF Uptown Cafe, and recently joined JUF Women’s Philanthropy Young Women’s City Council.
 
“A natural listener and connector, she brings people together across the Jewish community while balancing a successful career with a life grounded in meaning, relationships, and continuous growth,” shared her friend.
 
 

Age: 33
 
Pronouns: she/her/hers
 
Primary gig: IT Quality Manager at Abbott Laboratories
 
Describe yourself in 10 words or less: Small stature, big heart, and even bigger smile.
 
Something most people don’t know about you: I’m certified to belay others on a top-rope climbing wall. I may be small, but I won’t let you fall!
 
How do you Jew in Chicago? One of the things I love most about being Jewish, especially in Chicago, is feeling connected to a vibrant and engaging community where there’s always someone familiar and someone new to meet. I also love volunteering at amazing non-profits across Chicago with friends or through organized TOV and YLD programs like Mensches in Motion. It’s really fun to do good with good people!
 
A Jew who inspires you: My family friend, Harvey Segal, inspires me with his resilience. Harvey is a 102-year-old Jewish U.S. veteran who liberated Nazi concentration camps as a young soldier, and later in life found the strength and words to share his experience with others. He first told his story to me for a school project, and it has been incredible to witness the impact he’s made since then as he has opened up to the world.
 
Your best piece of advice: Keep the dream, but let go of urgency. Sometimes life leads us through a winding path while we work towards our goals, and the growth and self-awareness you gain along the way means that you’ll get there at exactly the right time.