Utah Women Leading Government Newsletter | September 2025

Meet Board Member Jenna Ahern

Hi all! I'm Jenna. I work as the Communications Manager for Vineyard City. I joined the UTWLG board this year, and I love everything it stands for. Equality in all facets of life is something I'm very passionate about. I've worked in government communications for about two years but have been writing and editing for years. I'm all about grammar and language (and yes, I'm a spelling snob ).


Outside of work, I spend my time boxing, reading, belly dancing, and doing things outdoors with my husband and two cute dogs. I love to try new hobbies, which usually ends up biting me in the butt because I never have enough time to actually do all the things I love. Talking about books is something I never get tired of, so please tell me what you're reading the next time you see me.


Annual UTWLG Conference | Thursday, November 13

You're Invited!


Join us for the 3rd Annual Utah Women Leading Government Conference — a dynamic gathering of women in public service committed to growth, connection, and leadership.


This year, we’re focusing on the power of preparation—being ready for anything, no matter the circumstances. We’ll explore how preparation builds confidence, strengthens resilience, and drives effective leadership in government. Expect inspiring speakers, practical workshops, and meaningful networking with fellow women in government across Utah.

Let’s come together to lead with intention, prepare for what’s next, and elevate each other.


Registration Link

Lunch & Learn Recap | The Dignity Index

What an inspiring UTWLG Lunch and Learn!


We were honored to hear from Tami Pyfer, Chief External Affairs Officer for UNITE and co-creator of the Dignity Index, whose insights challenged us to rethink how we engage in disagreement and dialogue. Tami’s presentation illuminated how the Dignity Index—a powerful eight-point scale—helps us recognize the difference between language that divides and language that heals, especially as women in leadesrhip. Her message was clear: contempt drives division, but dignity builds connection.


Participants left energized and equipped with practical tools to foster more respectful, inclusive conversations in our workplaces and communities. It was a powerful reminder that dignity isn’t just a value—it’s a strategy for change and can be an impactful tool in the work we do in government.


If you weren't able to attend, would like to learn more, or take the Dignity Pledge, visit dignity.us

September Poll

I see a clear path for advancement in my current role/organization.
What professional skill are you most interested in developing?

August Poll Results

What We're Reading

"Stolen Focus" by Johann Hari

This book argues that the widespread crisis of diminishing


attention is not a personal failing but a systemic problem engineered by powerful, external forces. Hari identifies twelve major factors, including the highly addictive design of social media, the collapse of deep reading, chronic sleep deprivation, and the constant task-switching demanded by modern work culture.


This book offers a crucial framework for understanding how the digital environment is degrading our capacity for the deep focus necessary for complex problem-solving, strategic thinking, and effective public service. Hari contends that personal "hacks" are not enough because they fail to address the large-scale forces—such as technology company business models that profit by hijacking our attention. He advocates for an "Attention Rebellion," campaigning for reforms like regulating technology to protect user focus and redesigning work environments to allow for sustained periods of uninterrupted concentration.

Facebook Forum


Join our forum today to connect with other Utah women in government, share information and resources, and get feedback.

If you're on the hunt for a new job, be sure to check out the Utah League of Cities and Towns' Job Bank!


Here are some of the current openings around the state:


  • Deputy City Recorder - Herriman
  • Parks and Recreation Assistant Director - Wasatch County
  • Parks and Recreation Assistant Director - West Valley
  • Economic Development Director - Eagle Mountain
  • Code Enforcement Officer - Layton
  • Planner I - Ogden

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