An artist among us: Ms. Jennifer Klecker

By Sharmane Hughes, sophomore

Ms. Jennifer Klecker is a new art teacher here at Messmer. She teaches six classes including ceramics, art foundations, and painting and she is also involved with the fine arts night and the art club. She first began working here this year and first heard about Messmer through one of our teachers here at Messmer named Ms. Rachel Dobrauc.

Klecker attended Cardinal Stritch University and majored in Art Education as an undergrad. She’s also been pursuing a Master’s in Religious Studies.

Her main focus when looking for a school was to find a school where she could share her passion for art in a faith- based environment. Klecker also felt very welcomed by the students and staff that she met.  The more she learned about the school, the more she wanted to be a part of its mission.

Her faith has always played a central role in her life. She’s very happy to be a part of a school community where faith is shared and integrated both inside and outside the classroom.

Recently, Klecker went on a trip to Italy. She went to lead a group of college students on pilgrimage. They went to Rome and Assisi to encounter the places and spirituality of St. Francis.  The program is also very similar to the one that Messmer students participate in. With each group she goes with, she’s always surprised how the themes of St. Francis and St. Clare still pertain to the lives of young people today.

Klecker does look forward to returning to Messmer next year!  Every morning, she gets to wake-up and it’s a great day, because she gets to create art with students!

She really likes that the Messmer community, is really a Messmer family. She believes that Messmer cares for all of its members.  After being here a short time, she has discovered that no matter who you are, when there is loss or great joy, the Messmer family is here to support and celebrate with you; that means a lot.

         She really wanted to add that this semester the painting classes are looking forward to working with guest artist, Zeph Farmby to create mural panels.  The panels will eventually adorn the walls near the auditorium.  She encourages students to watch the creative process unfold!

Wish all the art students luck as they work hard to achieve their goal. We are honored to have Ms. Klecker join our Messmer family!