Jennifer England

Children First: Oklahoma’s Nurse-Family Partnership Supervisor

5 years of service

Got any favorite quotes?

"There is a magic window during pregnancy…it’s a time when the desire to be a good mother and raise a healthy, happy child creates motivation to overcome incredible obstacles including poverty, instability or abuse with the help of a well-trained nurse."

-David Olds, PhD
Founder of Nurse-Family Partnership
Professor of Pediatrics at
University of Colorado

Who inspires you?

My husband and children inspire me every day to do my best in life at work, at home and at school.

If someone was interested in a public health career, what advice or encouragement would you give them?

If they have the desire to help prevent Oklahomans from becoming sick, and educate and empower them to protect their health then they should consider a job in public health.

What is the most rewarding experience you have had in public health?

We are able to go to their home and support them with breastfeeding or other needs. We’re there when it matters most, making sure vulnerable moms get the support they need to be competent parents by a trusting relationship. The most rewarding part is seeing the client succeed at her goals.

How did you start working in public health?

I had never heard of Children First. When I decided to start my public health career, I thought I was applying for a clinic job. When I got a call from Human Resources they told me about Children First: Oklahoma’s Nurse Family Partnership and I immediately started doing research to find out more about the program.

Can you share a few highlights of your experience in public health in Oklahoma?

My team and I work to change the future for the most vulnerable babies born into poverty by equipping the best person for the job, Mom, to become a competent, confident parent. We do this by going to their home and supporting these moms and families in many ways. Whether that is teaching her how to breastfeed, how to find a job, helping her work thru her emotions or helping her learn how to be baby’s first teacher.

In your role, how do you educate people about public health?

Studies have shown the best way to educate an individual is first find out what they are interested to learn about and build off their interests for the client is fully invested. We practice motivational interviewing and goal setting daily.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Our goal and focus is on child abuse prevention, but sometimes time we are required to make a DHS report to protect the child.

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