FFI is incredibly sad to learn of the passing of our dear friend, Jo; she has left behind quite a legacy. We are extremely grateful that we were able to honor Jo for all of her extraordinary work in the community by announcing the creation of her fellowship at a special event in May of 2022. As part of the event, FFI recorded her friends describing how much she means to them. Click the video below to enjoy and remember Jo's legacy.
Jessica Maye's, 2022 Lamprey Fellow, gave a moving speech about Jo's accomplishments and what she has done for the community, her family, and her friends, including Jess herself. Watch Jess's speech by clicking the button below.
We also compiled clips of her friends talking about what she meant to them. Please enjoy the video compilation below.
Josephine A. Lamprey Fellowship
Josephine A. Lamprey Fellowship for FFI Alumni
Established in 2022, the Lamprey Fellowship is awarded annually to an FFI Alumni who, like Jo, is dedicated to having a positive impact on their community and building a better world.
The alumni fellow not only must meet FFI’s requirements but also align with Jo’s passions. The Lamprey Fellow works both at FFI’s global headquarters in Durham, NH but also works in the region of the world where they are from.
Jo Lamprey
Jo Lamprey was a retired nurse and businesswoman who dedicated her life to helping the people around her. Born and raised in New Hampshire, Jo had deep ties to the Seacoast community. She was a champion for the environment, animals, human services, and youth. She served as a board member for the NHSPCA, Portsmouth Orchestra Symphony, The Music Hall, Families First, University of New Hampshire, and Friends Forever International.
Her philanthropic efforts are admired and appreciated by many, but most importantly, those that knew Jo cherished her friendship, advice, and leadership. FFI is honored to be able to continue her legacy by giving future leaders the opportunity to help build a better world through this fellowship.
2022 Lamprey Fellow
Jessica Maye
Jessica is a graduate of the 2014 Northern Ireland Program and spent 2 weeks with the New England host community. Once she returned home, Jessica continued to be engaged in volunteer work and giving back to her community through Scotch Street Youth Club. After her time in the US, Jessica became more passionate about Cross Community work. She was voted as the Youth Member of Parliament for Co. Armagh and Newry, where she campaigned to break down race and religious barriers in her community. Jessica was an active volunteer in her school as a Peer tutor and Befriender and was then selected as Deputy Head girl. She graduated from the University of Dundee in 2020 with an Adult Nursing Honours Bachelor Degree. Currently, she is a registered staff nurse in acute oncology at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, Scotland.
Friends Forever International chose Jessica to be the inaugural Josephine A. Lamprey Fellow because of her commitment to giving back to her community, her drive to address systematic issues, and her passion for helping others. As part of her Fellowship, Jessica will spend a year volunteering with FFI at its headquarters.
