Jackye Whitner Named Inspiring Woman Award Winner by Blaze

Blaze proudly announces Jackye Whitner as the recipient of the 2025 Inspiring Woman Award. This honor recognizes an extraordinary woman who dedicates her time, talent, and treasures to improving her community, makes a lasting and positive difference in the lives of others, and continually inspires those around her.  The award presentation is a highlight of Inspiring Women, an annual event hosted by Blaze, meant to empower women by bringing together engaging speakers, an encouraging environment, unique experiences, and give back opportunities.

Born and raised on the Choctaw Reservation in Philadelphia, Mississippi, Jackye demonstrated determination from an early age by skipping two grades and graduating high school at just 16. At 17, she attended Jackson State University, laying the foundation for a life devoted to service and leadership.

Her trailblazing journey continued in 1967, when she enlisted in the U.S. Army in Minneapolis. After training in Alabama, Georgia, and Indiana, serving at Fort MacArthur in California, and receiving a special assignment to the Los Angeles Area Recruiting Command, Jackye returned to Minnesota. While serving in the Twin Cities area, she made history as the first African American female Army recruiter in the Twin Cities and surrounding states, recruiting more than 200 young women into the Women’s Army Corps.

While working full time following her honorable discharge, Jackye earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in psychology counseling. She then dedicated eleven years to St. Paul Public Schools, working in the Adult Basic Education program until her retirement.

Jackye is also a successful businesswoman, owning Nimble Fingers and Silver Thread, where she has used her talents to dress generations of young women with confidence and grace.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Jackye has made a meaningful difference through her community involvement. She volunteers as a seamstress for Operation Glass Slipper, helping young women feel confident and beautiful for prom, and has been an active participant in the St. Paul Winter Carnival for more than 13 years. Her contributions were recognized in 2018 when she was named Volunteer of the Year.

A devoted wife, mother of four, grandmother to fourteen, and great-grandmother to two, Jackye and her husband have also cared for over 30 foster children, providing both emergency and long-term support.

“Jackye embodies everything this award stands for,” said Lisa Lehman, Vice President of Marketing at Blaze Credit Union. “Her strength, grace, and tireless service have left an immeasurable impact on her family, her community, and all who have the privilege of knowing her.”