The Story

Like any good enthusiast, Jen started young. Her first aquarium, acquired at the age of seven, housed a humble mix through the years of guppies, barbs, tetras, then African cichlids. As an adult, she discovered the much bigger world of fishkeeping via a most fateful encounter, a Craigslist ad she placed (titled: “Firemouth Cichlids–Bring Net and Bucket”) which introduced her to a former Army Lieutenant who opened her eyes to the world of local fish clubs, planted tanks, and the inspirational legend Takashi Amano. Ever since her first GWAPA meeting, Jen has been a passionate aquarium hobbyist and a dedicated enthusiast.

Currently she keeps and breeds an eclectic assortment of fish, and actively competes in aquascaping competitions both live and online. Jen has served on the board of GWAPA for many years, in addition to serving as an AGA Board Member. As an aquascaper, Jen is one of the most decorated in US live events, and since 2008 has won multiple awards in these competitions at Aquafest, Aquamania, the Big Fish Deal, and The Aquatic Experience. She has also competed in the IAPLC with a highest international ranking of #224.

Outside the tank, Jen holds a degree in Graphic Design and runs her creative business, Jen Will Design, from her home in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, DC. A former professional drag racer, her addiction to fast cars is shared by her husband, and proven by their collection of “toys”. Any time that’s left after working, volunteering, and ‘scaping goes into remodeling their mid-century home.

Eager to grow the hobby in the US, Jen enjoys traveling to clubs nationwide to give presentations, aquascaping demos, inspiration, and encouragement to future ‘scapers.

Credentials

Current Vice President, Greater Washington Aquatic Plant Association (GWAPA), previous positions of Secretary and President

Current Board Member, The Aquatic Gardeners Association (AGA)

Awards