Dana Bennett-Tejes

Dana Bennett-Tejes has a diverse work experience spanning over two decades. Starting in 1997, they worked as an Administrative Associate for Planned Parenthood Federation of America, where they oversaw the network of education directors and handled administrative tasks. From 1999 to 2000, they served as an HIV Program Manager at Serenity House, providing counseling and testing to high-risk drug users.

In 2000, Dana transitioned to the role of Director of Education at Planned Parenthood Omaha, focusing on comprehensive sexual health education and program development. Dana then joined BEHIV as the Director of Prevention, supervising a staff and writing successful funding continuation grants. One notable achievement during this time was securing a grant for a coordinated care approach to HIV/AIDS case finding and care.

From 2002 to 2003, Dana was the Volunteer Coordinator at KC-CASA, recruiting and training a record number of volunteers and providing advocacy services to survivors of sexual assault. Dana then worked as a Human Services Specialist at McLean Health Department, where they collaborated with public health nurses to provide STD education and testing.

Dana joined the Kankakee Health Department in 2004 as an HIV Specialist, responsible for developing and evaluating health education programs and providing counseling and case management services. Dana later worked at Nexus - Indian Oaks Academy, Chrysalis Program as a Mental Health Technician, supervising and guiding female adolescents with behavioral and emotional disorders.

In 2008, Dana started their tenure at CPS as a Chicago Teaching Fellow, teaching in the Chicago Public School system while pursuing an accelerated certification coursework. Dana'sresponsibilities included developing lesson plans and managing the classroom.

Dana's most recent work experience is with the American Academy of Pediatrics. Since 2010, they have held various roles within the organization, including Technical Assistance Coordinator for the CATCH Program and Manager of the Council on Community Pediatrics. In these positions, they led policy development, education, and member engagement efforts, with a focus on health equity and the social drivers of health.

Throughout their career, Dana has demonstrated a commitment to public health and education, utilizing their skills to address health disparities and promote well-being in communities.

Dana Bennett-Tejes' education history is as follows:

From 1991 to 1995, Dana attended Ithaca College and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology.

Afterwards, they pursued a Master of Arts degree in Health Education from New York University between 1997 and 1999.

In 2008, Dana enrolled at National Louis University and completed an Accelerated Teaching Certificate program, focusing on Elementary Education and Teaching, which they finished in 2010.

Lastly, from 2011 to 2013, they attended Capella University, where they earned a Master's degree in Nonprofit Management & Leadership.