Jen Eggerichs
Finding My Way Back to Hilliard
Hilliard has been a constant presence throughout my life, even when my path took me far from it. I first moved here in 1993, when my father relocated for work. I graduated from high school in Hilliard and began my college journey at Columbus State Community College. Like many people, my early adult years involved some wandering. I moved out West, returned to Ohio, left again, and eventually found my way back home for good around 2013.
What continues to draw me to Hilliard is its unique balance of small-town charm and forward momentum. Old Hilliard, in particular, still feels like a hometown - close-knit, familiar, and welcoming - while the community as a whole continues to grow, invest in local businesses, and expand resources for residents. That blend of honoring the past while embracing positive change is what makes Hilliard such a special place to live.
I believe Hilliard’s strength lies in its ability to bring people together. Community events, shared public spaces, and support for small businesses all help foster connections among residents and make the city inviting to visitors. Continuing to invest in these areas will only strengthen the sense of belonging that defines Hilliard.
My involvement with the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society has evolved gradually over time. I initially became involved by helping my father, Bob Eggerichs, with small projects and cleanup efforts whenever assistance was needed. In a more formal role, I became a docent in 2020. Since then, my participation has varied depending on my professional responsibilities. I work full-time for OhioHealth, teach as an adjunct faculty member at Columbus State Community College, and serve intermittently as a federal employee with the Disaster Medical Assistance Team, deploying when called. Despite a busy schedule, I remain committed to contributing to the Historical Society whenever possible.
What first attracted me to HOHS was the opportunity to spend meaningful time with my father while supporting something he deeply cares about. Over time, that involvement grew into a genuine passion for local history, especially learning what everyday life in Hilliard looked like in the early to mid-1900s. The Village offers a unique way for visitors to step back in time, whether by exploring a general store, a physician’s office, or simply walking the grounds. One of the most rewarding aspects for me is talking with visitors and hearing their personal stories and memories of Hilliard. That exchange of storytelling brings history to life in a powerful way.
I believe HOHS does an exceptional job serving the community, particularly given its limited resources and reliance on volunteers. perating on a shoestring budget and accommodating varying volunteer availability presents challenges, yet the Society continues to offer meaningful programming and preserve local history. Looking ahead, one important opportunity for growth is engaging the next generation. Expanding volunteer recruitment, mentorship, and outreach to younger community members will help ensure that the knowledge and passion of current members are passed on for years to come.
My favorite volunteer activities are helping with events, especially Heritage Day and the Haunted Village at Halloween. These events create joyful, memorable experiences that connect people of all ages to local history. This year, I also helped with the Santa in the Village event for the first time, handing out cookies. Seeing children’s faces light up - especially when they discovered we also had hot chocolate - was a simple but heartwarming reminder of how meaningful these moments can be for families.
Personally, HOHS has given me a way to give back to my community while honoring its history. It has also allowed me to share something deeply meaningful with my father. Being part of the Society connects my own story with the story of Hilliard, and that makes the experience especially rewarding.
Beyond HOHS, service remains a central part of my life. I deploy nationally with a Disaster Medical Assistance Team, supporting communities affected by disasters through my background in paramedicine and logistics. Locally, I stay involved in grassroots efforts, including maintaining a Little Free Library at my home - focused on children and adolescents - and helping stock a neighborhood Little Free Pantry with essentials, including pet food. I also try to support unhoused individuals whenever possible.
While free time is limited, I prioritize staying active and continuing to learn. I am currently pursuing a PhD at Kansas State University in Adult Education and Leadership, which reflects my ongoing commitment to growth, service, and community engagement.
