Jean Joka Elected President
of the Polish Heritage Society
- PostEagle
- September 5, 2016
- Uncategorized
- 0 Comments
PENNSYLVANIA – On June 5, 2016, Jean Joka was elected President of the Polish Heritage Society of Philadelphia for a two year term 2016-2018.
Raised and born in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia, a predominately Polish community. Educated at Saint Josaphat’s School located in Manayunk. Graduated in 1960 from John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls High School. Also attended Saint Joseph’s University.
In photo, left to right: Marie Hejnosz, past President of Polish Heritage Society of Philadelphia, and newly elected President Jean Joka.
Upon graduation in 1960 was employed as an Administrative Assistant for Radio Station WHAT. In 1977 Jean married and moved to Warsaw, Poland wherein Jean worked on a contract basis for the American Embassy. Upon her return to the United States in the 1980’s was employed by Turner Construction Company wherein she retired in 2012 after thirty (30) some years.
In the late 1980’s she joined the Polish Heritage Society of Philadelphia and has been a member ever since. She served in many capacities: such as Corresponding Secretary, Director, Communications Director, and now President. Also, is involved with the Adam Styka Art Exhibit and our annual Polonaise Ball. In 1983 she was honored by the Polish Heritage Society of Philadelphia as the Woman of the Year for her service and dedication to Polonia. She is a proud of her Polish culture and background which was instilled in her by her Polish parents.
OTHER INTERESTS:
1988 served as President of Executive Women International for the Philadelphia Chapter
Member of Woodmere Museum
Philadelphia Opera Company Series
Walnut Street Theater Series
AWARDS:
1982 Staff Award from Turner Construction Company in the Administrative Category
2004 Excellence in Human Resources – Turner Construction Company
Jean lives in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia with her cat, Princess.
