Jessica Martinez, MA, CCC-SLP, IBCLC
Speech-Language Pathologist & International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant at Floyd Valley Healthcare
What are you working on now?
My current passion projects are centered around infants, children, healthcare, and education. I utilize my professional career as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to support these endeavors.
Most recently, I completed my IBCLC licensure which allows me to empower women by providing essential support and guidance during their breastfeeding journey. I educate women about breastfeeding benefits and techniques, offer personalized assistance, emotional support, and problem-solving solutions. While respecting the mother’s individual choices regarding infant feeding, my expertise and compassion help them make informed decisions, fostering a positive and rewarding breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.
I am a member of the Iowa SIDS Foundation, which educates on safe sleep practices, raises money for research and resources such as bassinets for local families in need, and holds memorials for infants at the annual Iowa SIDS Walk.
As a member of the LeMars Community Schools Foundation Board, I assist with matters such as scholarships provided to local high school seniors, and subcommittees that honor local teachers with awards such as the “Teacher of the Year.”
What is your vision for the future?
Looking ahead to the future of my community, I really want to see a continued increase in quality healthcare, education, and family activities here in Siouxland.
It’s crucial that we have excellent and easily accessible medical facilities. Our schools should be staffed with great teachers and contain the resources necessary for our children to thrive here. And it would be fantastic to have more local activities and places to hang out, like parks, theaters, and community events.
Born and raised in LeMars, and now a mother myself, I am proud of our community. However, I know we can make our community more attractive to outsiders and give our current residents more reasons to stay and be proud of the place they call home.
What would you like to see happen in Siouxland?
I would like to see every mother and woman empowered and supported during their postpartum journey, ensuring they feel confident, educated, and cherished. I firmly believe that motherhood should be celebrated and that all children deserve the highest quality healthcare and education locally.
What are you doing to make that happen?
Through my employment at Floyd Valley Healthcare, I volunteer and participate in committees within the hospital such as the Obstetrics Committee. Committees like these focus on utilizing evidence-based practices and patient satisfaction to update protocols to provide exceptional, progressive care to all our local families.
I also organize internship opportunities for college students and job shadowing opportunities for high school students. My goal is to empower the next generation with the knowledge and firsthand experience as speech-language pathologists or lactation professionals, helping them understand the profound impact they can have in these essential fields.
I also volunteer for local boards that focus on infant safety and health and local educational systems.
How can people help you make that happen?
Take a moment to think about what interests you, and then explore career and volunteer opportunities that align with those passions. Each of us possesses beautiful and unique skills that can be used to make a difference in the lives of others. In Siouxland, we are fortunate to have a supportive community, and when we come together and contribute our talents, incredible things can happen.
What quote or saying inspires you?
“A voice is a voice, no matter how small.”
Volunteer Organizations:
Iowa SIDS Foundation
LeMars Community School District Foundation Board
Floyd Valley Health Obstetrics Committee
The 2023 10 Under 40 was Sponsored by Security National Bank.
