50 Facts About Jill Biden

Early Life and Education

Jill Biden's journey began in a small town and led her to become an influential figure in education and politics.

1. Jill Tracy Jacobs Biden was born on June 3, 1951, in Hammonton, New Jersey.
2. She grew up in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, as the oldest of five girls.
3. Jill holds a Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Delaware.
4. She earned Master's degrees in Education and English from West Chester University and Villanova University.
5. At 55, she received a Doctorate in Education from the University of Delaware in January 2007.

Teaching Career

Jill's passion for teaching has been a constant throughout her life, shaping her professional identity.

6. She taught English and reading in high schools for 13 years.
7. Jill instructed emotionally troubled adolescents at a psychiatric hospital.
8. For 15 years, she was an English and writing instructor at Delaware Technical & Community College.
9. In January 2009, she began teaching two English courses at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) as an adjunct professor.
10. Jill is the first First Lady in U.S. history to hold a paying job outside the White House while her husband is in office.

Personal Life and Marriage

Jill's personal life is marked by her strong family bonds and her enduring marriage to Joe Biden.

11. She met Joe Biden on a blind date arranged by his brother in 1975.
12. Jill declined Joe's marriage proposals four times before agreeing on the fifth try.
13. The couple married on June 17, 1977.
14. They had a child, Ashley Biden, in 1981.
15. Jill became the stepmother to Joe's two sons, Beau and Hunter, after marrying him.

Advocacy and Philanthropy

Jill has dedicated much of her life to various causes, particularly in education and health.

16. She founded the Biden Breast Health Initiative, a nonprofit organization, in 1993.
17. The initiative provides educational breast health awareness programs to schools and other groups in Delaware.
18. Jill co-founded the Book Buddies program, which provides books for low-income children.
19. She is active in Delaware Boots on the Ground, supporting military families.
20. Jill co-founded the Joining Forces campaign with Michelle Obama to help veterans and military spouses with career opportunities.

Fitness and Hobbies

Jill maintains an active lifestyle and has various interests outside her professional and philanthropic work.

21. She runs five miles, five times a week.
22. Jill has participated in marathons like the Marine Corps Marathon and the Philadelphia Half Marathon.
23. Before meeting Joe, she did some modeling to make extra money.
24. Jill enjoys decorating for holidays, with Valentine's Day being her favorite.
25. She loves fast food, particularly WaWa, and often shared pictures of it during Joe's campaign.

Role as First Lady

Jill's role as First Lady is unique, as she continues to work and advocate for various causes.

26. She is officially known as "Dr. Jill Biden" due to her doctoral degree in Education.
27. Jill's secret service codename as First Lady is Capri, the same as when she was Second Lady.
28. She has continued many traditions started by previous First Ladies, including supporting education and advocating for women’s health issues.
29. Jill has been well-received by the public for her down-to-earth demeanor and commitment to her career and family.
30. Her role marks a significant shift in the definition of the First Lady, being the first to maintain a paying job outside the White House.

Public Engagements and Campaigns

Jill has been actively involved in Joe Biden's political career, making numerous public appearances and supporting his campaigns.

31. During Joe’s presidential campaign, Jill made numerous public appearances.
32. She helped remove a heckler from a campaign rally and protected Joe from protesters.
33. Jill has campaigned for Joe in all his presidential campaigns, including his successful run in 2020.
34. She often graded class papers on the campaign bus, showing her dedication to teaching.
35. Jill has addressed numerous events, including the opening of the Scripps National Spelling Bee and the National Teachers of the Year reception.

Family and Traditions

The Bidens have a close-knit family, with traditions that reflect their strong bonds.

36. Joe and Jill have been married for over 44 years.
37. The Bidens hold family meetings before any campaign Joe launches.
38. Jill was deeply affected by the loss of her stepson Beau Biden, who died of brain cancer in 2015.
39. The Bidens have a tradition of holding family meetings before any campaign Joe launches.
40. Jill missed the "scent of new notebooks or freshly waxed floors" at the start of the new school year during the pandemic, reflecting her deep love for teaching.

Advocacy for Military Families

Jill has been a strong advocate for military families, supporting them through various initiatives.

41. She has met with U.S. military service members and their families at various bases.
42. Jill has been vocal about the challenges faced by military spouses.
43. She co-founded the Joining Forces campaign with Michelle Obama to help veterans and military spouses with career opportunities.
44. Jill is active in Delaware Boots on the Ground, supporting military families.
45. She has been involved in supporting military families and their children as Second Lady.

Books and Writing

Jill has also made her mark as an author, writing books that reflect her experiences and advocacy.

46. She has authored two children’s books, including "Don’t Forget, God Bless Our Troops".
47. Jill has written a memoir that provides insights into her life, including her experiences as a teacher and her role as Second Lady and First Lady.
48. Her students refer to her as "Dr. B," and she is known for being a tough grader.
49. Jill's memoir offers a glimpse into her life, balancing her career and family responsibilities.
50. Despite her high-profile role, Jill continues to be actively involved in various philanthropic activities, including her work with the Biden Breast Health Initiative and other organizations supporting education and military families.

Jill Biden: A Life of Dedication and Resilience

Jill Biden's journey from a young educator to the First Lady of the United States is nothing short of inspiring. Her commitment to education, family, and philanthropy shines through every aspect of her life. Whether she's teaching at a community college, advocating for military families, or supporting breast cancer awareness, Jill's passion and dedication are evident. She's not just the First Lady; she's a role model who balances her professional career with her responsibilities at the White House. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one person can have on countless lives. Jill Biden continues to break barriers and set new standards, proving that dedication and resilience can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to pursue their passions and make a difference in the world.