Jill O’Linger is making an impact through resilience, service and leadership

By Hunter Anderson

As a sophomore management major, Jill O’Linger balances multiple leadership roles, ambassador positions, Greek life involvement and internships while navigating personal adversity and building a positive community around her.

O’Linger lives with Crohn’s disease, a condition she said has shaped her resilience and perspective.

“Living with Crohn’s disease means managing chronic pain and uncertainty, but I refuse to let it limit my impact,” she said. “It has strengthened my resilience, empathy and commitment to serving others.”

A Huntsville native and legacy student, O’Linger said she felt called to give back.

“There are so many leadership opportunities at UAH, so I wanted to be involved in as many as possible,” she said.

She serves as a College of Business ambassador, where she focuses on creating a welcoming environment. She is also a Career Services ambassador, helping students with resumes and interview preparation.

“I’ve learned so much about resumes, and now people reach out to me for help,” she said.

O’Linger previously served as director of marketing for the Women in Business and Leadership club, a role inspired by hearing female leaders speak at a campus event.

“I got goosebumps,” she said. “I was so proud of the women leaders and what they have done with their careers. It inspired me to see what I can do as a leader.” 

Studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan, further pushed her outside her comfort zone.

“Studying abroad was a major confidence boost,” she said. “Navigating it on my own strengthened my independence.”

Within Greek life, O’Linger is a member of Delta Zeta and serves in leadership roles, including alumni relations chair. She is also a member of Order of Omega, which recognizes academic excellence.

Professionally, O’Linger has completed internships that strengthened her confidence and communication skills. She began as an energy mentor with Energy Alabama, leading presentations in schools, and now serves as a human resources administrative assistant with Teleios Defense Solutions LLC.

“As a sophomore, I’m gaining hands-on experience in a corporate setting,” she said.

She has done over 75 hours of community service, most notably with the Greater Humane Society of Huntsville, Merrimack and the Huntsville Museum of Art.

 “The best advice I can give is this: when life gets hard, go help somebody. Get out of your own head, get involved, and pour into someone else. It makes all the difference."

 O’Linger’s experience living with a chronic illness has shaped her perspective, but not her limits. Even in difficult seasons, she continues to lead and serve, hoping to show others facing similar challenges that they are not defined by their circumstances and can still make a meaningful impact.