Jill Biden is an American educator who has served as the first lady of the United States since 2021. She is the wife of President Joe Biden. Known for her dedication to teaching, she holds a Doctorate in Education and continues to work as a professor of English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, making her the first president’s spouse to maintain a paying job while in the White House. Throughout her career, she has championed community colleges and the importance of accessible higher education for all.
Born Jill Tracy Jacobs in 1951 in Hammonton, New Jersey, she grew up in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Delaware in 1975, a Master of Education from West Chester University in 1981, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of Delaware in 2007. Her doctoral research focused on student retention at community colleges, reflecting her long‑term commitment to this educational sector. She has taught reading and writing in public high schools and community colleges for more than three decades, building a reputation as a dedicated and innovative instructor.
As first lady, Jill Biden advocates for military families, community college education, and cancer research. Alongside Michelle Obama, she launched the “Joining Forces” initiative to support service members, veterans, and their families. She has also promoted the College Promise campaign, emphasizing tuition‑free community college programs. In addition, she has been a vocal supporter of cancer research, an issue close to her family’s experience, and frequently highlights the need for accessible education and workforce training.
Jill Biden balances her public role with her ongoing teaching career. She continues to teach English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, often commuting from Washington, D.C., to the Annandale campus. Her commitment to the classroom sets a powerful example of lifelong learning and public service. She also authored a children’s book aimed at encouraging young people to express their emotions and overcome fear, reflecting her belief in the power of storytelling.
Despite the demands of public life, Jill Biden remains grounded in her identity as an educator. She participates in roundtable discussions with students and teachers, advocates for increased funding for community colleges, and promotes career‑technical education. Her practical approach to the role of first lady has earned bipartisan respect, and she continues to be an active voice in national conversations on education, family support, and military family well‑being.