Jes graduated from The University of Montana with a BFA in Dance and a Minor in Women's and Gender Studies. Before attending UM, Jes danced for five seasons with Artisan Dance Theater, a classical ballet company under the direction of Sallyann Mulcahy. Since then, her passion for improvisation, vulnerability, and genuine expression has pulled her away from her classical ballet roots into the world of contemporary dance, contact improvisation, and abstract art. Whether it be dancing for two seasons with Headwaters Dance Company, teaching dance at the University and in the public schools of Missoula and Arlee, or continuing to invest in making work and collaborating with artists around the Missoula area, Jes has chosen to make her living as an artist because nothing else has ever felt like living quite like it does. She whole-heartedly believes art that is intentional, committed, and fully embodied has the potential to change the world and she is dedicated to the study and exploration of such art and living.