Candidate: Jackie Keay

Jacqualene “Jackie” Keay’s background is somewhat unique, as she was born in the Bahamas and raised in Naples. After graduating from Lely High School in 1988, she enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Germany. Germany became her new home and she enjoyed not only her career, but also met her husband and over the years had four wonderful children, three of whom she homeschooled for a total of 10 years.

Jackie earned a Master’s degree in Psychology, with an emphasis in professional counseling.  Jackie has been and continues to be passionate about education and learning in all aspects of her life. She studied and became fluent in German and enjoyed not only Europe but travelling extensively throughout the world. As she traveled to each country, she would socialize with the locals and learn to greet them in their language to help break the ice.  This allowed her to learn the greetings/conversation starters for over 12 languages.  Through these experiences, Jackie learned to appreciate and respect diverse people and their cultures. 

Jackie planned to remain in Germany, but after 17 years, she wanted to move to a warmer climate. Now divorced, she decided to return to her native city of Naples in 2015 with her youngest daughter, Dezi, 18, who enlisted in the Army.  She taught two years at Mason Classical Academy after coming home and found her calling in learning about and teaching others. Jackie is proud to say she is a graduate of Leadership Collier’s class of 2021, which has given her the ability to further give back to the community.  She has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Empty Bowls, The United Way, The Friendship House, Path2Freedom, as well as serving on the board of Audubon Western Everglades.  Jackie’s drive to continue to improve herself and those around her is what compels her to be running for the representative for District 5 of the Collier County School Board. 

Here is the link to my campaign website:

https://100060.campaignpartner.net/