By: Emily Konouchi | 2021 Board of Directors

At the beginning of this year, we were so excited to welcome Jesse Harbsion to our Board of Directors. Jesse is a Nashville-based solo attorney, and her practice focuses on employment-related issues -- particularly representing people who have been discriminated against in the workplace.

Prior to starting her own firm, Jesse worked for a large regional law firm in the labor and employment group. She also worked as the Director of Legal Services for the Volunteer Lawyers & Professionals for the Arts. Jesse is a proud native of East Nashville, where she still lives with her husband Jay. 

I asked Jesse a few questions to get to know her a little better: 

Q: Why do you support TNJFON? 

 A: I am proud to support JFON by serving on the board because JFON provides crucial immigration legal services to vulnerable communities.  As a lawyer, I understand firsthand that cost can be a barrier to high-quality legal help. That is why it is so important that JFON provides its services at low or no cost to its clients. I don't practice immigration law, but I know it is incredibly complex and can be difficult to navigate. I believe in JFON's mission of helping vulnerable communities by providing high-quality immigration legal services.

 Q: What was your first job? 

 A: My first job was at age fifteen working at a kiosk selling the "World's Smallest Vacuum Cleaner" at the Opry Mills Mall (not as cool as it sounds - was basically a roller brush inside a plastic container that brushed away crumbs). My mom still has several of them because she would come buy one from me if my sales were down during one of my shifts. Thanks, mom!

 Q: What’s your favorite pandemic-era activity or hobby? What about in non-pandemic times? 

 A: Like everyone else, I have loved working on puzzles! It is great to have something to do while I listen to a podcast or audiobook. I think it is a hobby I will keep in my non-pandemic life, as well. 

So glad to have you on the board, Jesse!