Jeni M. is a Senior Actuarial Analyst in our Finance Division. Get to know what inspires her, why she embraces change, and how she earned a title of “Best Bagger in Rhode Island.”
How long have you been with Neighborhood, and what is your current role in the Finance team? What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
I have been with Neighborhood for almost four years and my current role in Finance is as a Senior Actuarial Analyst. There are several rewarding moments so far. During the initial stages of my career, I had the opportunity to work closely with leadership across various divisions, which was rewarding as I learned so much about the organization. The people and the connections I have formed are something I will carry with me for a lifetime. The culture at Neighborhood has allowed me to be myself as I grow my professional career.
What motivates you in your work, and how does your role in Finance contribute to Neighborhood’s mission?
I am motivated to go to work every day because I know that my work will have an impact on members’ lives. Although my role is not member facing, my responsibility is to help ensure the organization remains fiscally responsible. Neighborhood is committed to have high-quality, cost-effective health care for all Rhode Islanders, and my work helps drive Neighborhood’s ability to fulfill that part of its mission.
What inspired you to pursue a career in Finance, and how has your experience at Neighborhood shaped your professional growth?
My love for math and numbers led me to pursue a career as an Actuary. When I was younger, I always enjoyed reviewing stats in sports as well as being the child who would solve every problem numerically instead of using words. For instance, on a trip to Disney World as a child, I calculated the average wait times for rides in a notebook to determine the best time to go on the ride. My passion for numbers continued to grow, which is why I became an Actuary. My career has flourished because of the experience and support I have received at Neighborhood. Every milestone of my journey to become a member of the Society of Actuaries has been celebrated by my coworkers, making me feel fulfilled and accomplished.
What is one personal or professional goal you are excited to work toward in 2025, and what inspires you to achieve it?
My biggest goal for the next three years is to become a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries. As a woman in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) field, I want to achieve the top level in my field. I am inspired by my mother who has been a leader in STEM as a non-profit chief financial officer for more than30 years. I aspire to be as successful and respected; she is truly a leader.
What is one lesson you have learned that you will carry with you?
One lesson I have learned is that the only constant in life is change. As a young adult, I was terrified of change as it left me worried and unable to achieve things I wanted most in life at that time. I learned to control those fears and can now look change straight in the eye. Life is constantly changing. If we fail to adapt, we never will grow.
What is a fun fact about you that your colleagues might not know?
Something that people at Neighborhood may not know about me is that I was the Best Bagger of Rhode Island in 2016! During college, I worked at Dave’s Marketplace as a cashier. Annually, our store participated in a state-wide bagging competition where cashiers from markets around the state competed and were judged on speed, equal weighting of bags, structure of the packed bags, cashier appearance and enthusiasm. After competing and winning the Rhode Island title, I traveled to Las Vegas to compete in the National Bagging competition!
What is one activity, hobby, or tradition you enjoy outside of work that helps you recharge and approach each day with purpose?
One of my favorite activities to recharge outside of work is disc golf, a hobby I picked up prior to COVID. The game is played on a course with 18 baskets and players throw frisbees instead of hitting golf balls. It recharges me because I can play year-round and play outdoors in scenic areas, while at the same time getting exercise. Recently, I have joined a team, made new friends, and met disc golf professionals. During the nice weather, you occasionally can catch me throwing my discs in the (Neighborhood) parking lot.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received, and how has it guided you in your career or personal life?
One piece of advice I have received is to always say “yes;” but make sure to say “no.” While it may sound contradictory, it is important to be eager to say “yes” to new opportunities but allow yourself to say “no” and avoid becoming overextended. Professionally, I have said yes to tasks which have expanded my learning; and personally, saying “yes” is how I met my boyfriend, Anthony.