Jenna Ratzlaff has been a Harvey County resident for 27 years. She was raised in North Newton, KS and continues to reside in North Newton. Jenna is a Newton High School graduate of 2015. She attended Hesston College from 2016-2018 where she discovered her love in the field of social work. She then transferred to Bethel College to complete her college career and graduated in May 2020 with her Bachelors of Science in Social Work. Jenna gained experience in philanthropy through completing a practicum at the local community foundation and dove into the healthcare world by completing another practicum at a local nursing home. Jenna completed her Masters of Social Work at the University of Kansas. During her time at KU, Jenna focused on the macro route of social work which includes policies, grant writing, leadership, and administration duties.. Jenna spent her time at Wichita State University Community Engagement Institute for her grad school practicum. During this time she worked with the AmeriCorps program and trauma-informed care. After graduating from KU in May 2022, Jenna became an executive director for a local nonprofit. She then transitioned from nonprofit leadership back into the world of healthcare. Jenna is currently the Director of Social Services/Grievance Officer at Kansas Christian Home in Newton. Jenna is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and enjoys the relationships she has created with her residents at KCH. 

Jenna enjoys giving her time back to the community that has given so much to her. She is currently on the board of directors for Peace Connections and Central Kansas Community Foundation. Jenna recently wrapped up a 4-year term on the board of directors for the Kansas Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. Jenna continues to give her time to KS NASW by being involved in the planning of Advocacy Day for Kansas social work students each year. She is a member of the dismantling racism team (DRT) with Western District Conference (WDC). Jenna is also involved in Big Brother Big Sisters in Harvey County. Jenna and her Little Sister love to go on adventures and spend time together!

Running for public office is not a decision that Jenna took lightly. After some encouragement from community members, friends, and family, Jenna decided to file for candidacy for the House of Representatives. After hearing from several people in the community about the barriers they face with food security, affordable housing, and seeing the barriers that the elders face in the community for behavioral/mental health resource, Jenna became determined to advocate for changes. Jenna has made it clear that despite the outcomes of the November election, she will continue to advocate for the community. SHe firmly believes that every individual in our communities are deserving of adequate resources that will help enhance their quality of life.