Jessie Nendza
Lancaster,PA
Summary
Experienced educator and coach with a strong background in fitness programming and teambuilding facilitation. Known for leading by example through my own fitness endeavors to promote growth as a whole person in student athletes.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher, K-5
School District of Lancaster
Lancaster, PA
2024 - Current
- Implemented and adapted lesson plans to individuals to facilitate student learning across various subjects and grade levels, including special ed and emotional support
- Built connections with students to help manage classroom behavior effectively, fostering a positive and conducive learning environment.
- Collaborated with teachers to support curriculum objectives and enhance student engagement.
CrossFit Coach
CrossFit Lionheart and CrossFit Collective
2015 - 2024
- Programmed and scaled workout programs for a variety of ages and abilities
- Conducted individual and group coaching sessions to optimize performance, while focusing on safety, quality of movement, intensity and proper recovery
- Specialized in one-on-one training with prospective collegiate athletes to maximize their fitness in their school sport
- Organized and led community events to promote CrossFit culture and engagement.
Instructor and Program Manager
Penn State University
State College, PA
2013 - 2022
- Managed a freshmen orientation backpacking program in Olympic National Park, WA to increase student engagement before beginning school in the fall
- Instructed classes in outdoor recreation and general health and wellness
- Facilitated interactive learning experiences through engaging curriculum, teambuilding, and leadership skills
- Trained a staff of 40 in hard and soft skills to be confident in leading 10 students on a 5 day trip in the back country
Education
Master of Science - Recreation, Parks And Tourism Management
Penn State University
University Park, PA08-2016
Bachelor of Science - Recreation, Parks And Tourism Management
Penn State University
University Park05-2013
Skills
- Group/time management
- Student mentorship
- Fitness programming
- Relationship building and management
- Strength and endurance training
- Nutrition for athletes
- Teambuilding facilitation
- Injury prevention and recovery
- Leading by example
Accomplishments
As a lifelong athlete, I've recently discovered my love for endurance sports, especially running. I took up endurance training January 2025, and have sinced placed 2nd at the Happy Valley Ironman 70.3 in the 35-39 age group and placed first in the 2026 Harrisburg half marathon. Prior to that I was a competitive Crossfitter and Coach, competing nationally and placing in the 99th percentile worldwide for 5 years. In college I was a 2nd team All-American rower, and was a 4-year varsity athlete in cross-country and 2-year varsity soccer player for Hempfield High School.
Timeline
Substitute Teacher, K-5
School District of Lancaster
2024 - Current
CrossFit Coach
CrossFit Lionheart and CrossFit Collective
2015 - 2024
Instructor and Program Manager
Penn State University
2013 - 2022
Master of Science - Recreation, Parks And Tourism Management
Penn State University
Bachelor of Science - Recreation, Parks And Tourism Management
Penn State University