Burns Supper Director

Jen’s Scottish heritage dates back to her 3rd great grandfather John Storie, a cotton handloom weaver who emigrated to Canada from Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, Scotland to McNab Township, Ontario, Canada.  Growing up in a family of storytellers, artists and history buffs, Jen took up her own passions as a performing and competitive Highland dancer for 15 years. She enjoys researching her family roots, Scottish culture and WW1 history. Jen also has a taste for Scotch whisky and has an education with WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust)

Employed as a Registered Early Childhood Educator in Ottawa. She is dedicated to children’s learning, development and care, and has extensive experience working with children aged 6 months to four. She is currently working in Intergenerational care, bringing children and seniors together to develop a sense of community and bridge gaps between generations.   

Jen is new to event planning and directing but her passion for Rabbie Burns is strong. Her interest in Burns peaked in High School English class when she read a reference to his poem, “Comin' Thro the Rye,” in JD Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. Full of teenage angst and emotion, she found solace in Burns' passion for nature, romance, sexuality and rebellion.  Having attended many Burns dinners and events, she is a stickler for tradition and hopes to bring more interest to the Burns supper.  Jen joined as Burns director in mid 2021 and is learning the ropes from the very dedicated board of directors of The Scottish Society of Ottawa.

Jen can be reached at burns@ottscot.ca.