Gusties at Work: Jackie Schwerm Schulze ’11

“I love the tangible impact that local government can have on people's lives.”
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A young woman stands in graduation robes, a woman helps a child in a Randy Moss jersey
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Schwerm Schulze ’11 on the steps of Old Main upon her graduation; helping a young Waconia citizen and Vikings fan. 

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Schulze, the assistant city administrator of the city of Waconia, oversees human resources, communications, elections, facilities, and special projects. She relishes the opportunity to interact with employees across different departments, and values the diverse range of experiences and perspectives her colleagues bring to the table, and the collaborative nature of the field.

At Gustavus, she majored in Political Science and Communications. She attributes her success in navigating job transitions and new responsibilities to her strong communication skills, which she developed at Gustavus. "My time at Gustavus was instrumental in shaping my career path," Schulze said. "The rigorous academic environment and the emphasis on critical thinking and communication skills provided me with a strong foundation for success."

One of her proudest accomplishments is her involvement in the development of an inclusive playground in Waconia. She played a large part in the fundraising, design, and community outreach efforts. She also takes pride in recruiting and engaging employees. 

A Liberal Arts Foundation

Schulze credits her time at Gustavus for providing her with a strong foundation in critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of social and political issues. These skills have allowed her to effectively research complex issues, draft persuasive documents, and build strong relationships with community members and stakeholders.

One of the most significant skills Schulze developed at Gustavus was her ability to write effectively. She emphasized the importance of strong writing skills in public administration, as they are essential for crafting clear and concise policies and reports. "Writing is a fundamental skill for any public administrator," she says. "It's how we communicate our ideas, persuade others, and get things done."

A Passion for Public Service

Schulze's passion for public service is evident in her dedication to her work. She is committed to making a positive impact on her community. She believes that real change can be made at the local level of government."From building new infrastructure to improving public safety, we have the opportunity to make a real difference in our communities."

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