Profession: Photo Editor, Science & Innovation at National Geographic
Education: Bachelor’s of Arts in Art History, Pepperdine University
Current residence: Washington, D.C.
National Geographic Photo Editor Jenna (Turner) Fite ‘03 has taken her Marymount education around the world and back in a trailblazing career inspired by Marymount’s core value of global advocacy.
“Marymount taught me to be curious about the world, which is how I have lived my lifesince graduating,” Jenna said. “My curiosity inspired me to live abroad in Italy, Mali, and Azerbaijan, and it has led me in some really interesting directions with my career.”
After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Art History from Pepperdine University, Jenna enlisted in the Peace Corps, which sent her to work with women in the remote village of Tenemabougou in southwest Mali, West Africa.
But Jenna found her true calling in photography at National Geographic, where she was mentored by renowned photo editor Susan Welchman. She’s now the lead Photo Editor in National Geographic’s Science & Innovation department for digital and short form.
But Jenna found her true calling in photography at National Geographic, where she was mentored by renowned photo editor Susan Welchman. She’s now the lead Photo Editor inNational Geographic’s Science & Innovation department for digital and short form.
“National Geographic combined my two passions: learning about the world and visuals,” said Jenna.
With an evergreen love of learning and curiosity, Jenna’s career path has taken her through a diverse range of roles and subjects — from art directing a Spinosaurus cover story (which required a week-long shoot with a life-sized dinosaur model) to commissioning original coverage of the Mars Insight Lander.
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Jenna now directs and styles photo shoots for National Geographic, including a recent story on how genes affect one’s love — or hate — of coffee.
When reflecting on past lessons, Jenna looks to her time at Marymount, as well as her openness to following God’s direction in her life.
“All parts of my life — my work, my family, my interests — contribute to my sense of self,” Jenna said. “No one part defines me. I have learned to always ask questions, to follow God’s path, and to be curious and interested in the world around me.”