Jessica Zimpfer
Jessica Zimpfer received a bachelor’s degree in history and government from Daemen College. As a student, she attended the Woodhull Institute for Ethical Leadership and was awarded the college’s Charles L. Lumsden Award for academic achievement.
After completing her degree at Daemen, Zimpfer went on to earn a master of social work from the University at Buffalo and started in the social work field by assisting refugees resettling in Buffalo. She then became certified as a licensed master social worker and served as a home care social worker at Hospice Buffalo.
In 2016, Zimpfer began working in the advocate program at Crisis Services in Erie County, where she provided support and services to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and elder abuse. Last year she transitioned into the program’s therapist role and now helps survivors heal and grow through their trauma.
Zimpfer credits her time at Daemen and her interactions with faculty in history and government for her success and passion for advocacy and working with survivors.
“It was through my history classes that I learned about movements for social change, and I strongly felt I needed to be involved in change in some way,” said Zimpfer. “My professors recognized my potential and challenged me to work for it. I’m now able to channel my energy and interests into my career, efforts for social change, and to empower others.”