WISCONSIN'S FIRST LADY JESSICA DOYLE

Introducing Jessica Doyle, First Lady of Wisconsin

First Lady Jessica Doyle, an educator for 35 years, brings to Leadership a long-standing commitment to literacy and education. During her time as First Lady, she has instituted her own education and literacy initiatives and worked with the Governor to promote community involvement and the Wisconsin Covenant. Among her initiatives is the “Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle?” geography game, for the State's 4th- through 8th-graders. The game provides clues about the geography, history, and culture of a Wisconsin city, and students research and submit answers. A weekly winner is randomly selected and receives a prize.

Mrs. Doyle and the Governor started Community Connections, a program that sends volunteers to middle schools to spend one-on-one time with students to assist with class work and provide mentoring. Another initiative, the Wisconsin Covenant launched in May 2007, asks students to sign a pledge to graduate from a Wisconsin high school, maintain a B average, take classes to prepare for higher education, and be active in the community. In return, the State promises to offer guidance through high school, a place in a Wisconsin school of higher education, and a financial aid package based on family need.

A native of Wisconsin, Mrs. Doyle graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and later obtained a master's degree in educational administration. With her husband, she spent two years in Tunisia in the Peace Corps. Her teaching career began in Massachusetts, and when the Doyles lived in Arizona in the 1970's she taught in the Navajo Nation. She subsequently worked in Madison, Wisconsin, in middle schools and high schools.

Mrs. Doyle and her husband have two grown sons and a grandchild.

Spouses of Governors who have completed their terms in their State houses are able to continue their work to prevent childhood drinking as members of the Leadership To Keep Children Alcohol Free Emeritus Group. Click here for information on the Emeritus Group and a complete list of members.