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JENA PETERSON
JENA & TODD PETERSON
Jena is an openly gay woman, married to her husband Todd. Together they have three beautiful children. She came out publicly in December of 2014. Since then she's been a public voice, creating a bridge between the LDS church and the LGBT community. She has a background as a college athlete, softball coach, and high school teacher, as well as a Bachelor's degree in Social Work. These areas of expertise have all contributed to the work she now does as a Life Coach. In her practice, Authentic Life Coaching LLC, Jena specializes in LGBT issues and the intersection of sexual orientation, gender identity, and religion. She speaks at various conferences and organizations, facilitates a lesbian support group at "Encircle," and spends countless hours giving her time to educating others on LGBT issues, including church leaders. Jena is also currently involved in starting an "Affirmation" chapter in New Zealand.
Jena has had various callings in the LDS church, including a full time mission to New Zealand, Relief Society President, counselor in Young Women's and Primary. Jena and Todd are currently serving in their local ward as young single adult reps, and are committee chairs for an upcoming youth conference. Together they navigate their mixed orientation marriage while supporting same sex relationships, including marriage. Ultimately, Jena's goal is that her experiences and story will be used to create a safer, more loving environment for LGBT people within Mormonism.