The greater Chicago community and the Human Resources profession are mourning the loss of Jessica Sclafani, SPHR, a respected HR leader whose life was tragically cut short on Monday, August 18. Jessica’s death has left a deep void, not just in the workplace but in the hearts of all who knew her.

Jessica’s professional journey was marked by a commitment to excellence and compassion. She most recently served as Senior Manager of Human Resources at Mayer Brown, a prestigious global law firm, where she began her tenure in April 2023. In this role, she was celebrated not only for her expertise in HR but also for her unwavering dedication to supporting her colleagues with empathy, understanding, and professionalism. Her leadership went beyond the usual HR duties—she was known for her ability to guide, mentor, and help her peers grow both personally and professionally.

Before joining Mayer Brown, Jessica’s HR career was already filled with notable accomplishments. She served as a Human Resources Business Partner and Manager at Paul Hastings, and she held key roles in Baker McKenzie, one of the world’s largest law firms. Over the years, she became a trusted voice in employee relations, organizational development, and strategic HR management. Jessica brought a people-first mindset to every organization she worked with, consistently prioritizing the well-being of employees while also fostering a positive, high-performance culture.

Her academic background was just as impressive as her career. Jessica earned her degree from Lewis University and later completed her studies at the University of Iowa, where she was known for her intellectual curiosity and determination. Her academic journey, marked by a thirst for knowledge and growth, laid the foundation for her future success in the HR profession. Jessica was always eager to learn, improve, and adapt, traits that contributed to her success in her career and personal life.

Jessica’s colleagues often described her as not only a professional role model but also a friend and a mentor. Her leadership style was a unique blend of warmth, expertise, and approachability, which made her not just a manager but someone people genuinely enjoyed working with. She had a remarkable ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life, creating an environment where everyone felt valued and supported. Whether it was navigating complex employee relations issues or simply offering a listening ear, Jessica was always there for her colleagues, providing guidance with grace and kindness.

Beyond her professional life, Jessica’s true passion was her family. She was a devoted daughter, partner, and loved one who lived her life rooted in strong family values. Those closest to her recall the warmth and love she shared so freely, from holiday gatherings filled with laughter to quiet moments of support during tough times. She was known for her kindness, her laughter, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her family meant the world to her, and she often spoke of the importance of maintaining close family ties and offering unconditional support to loved ones.

In many ways, Jessica’s legacy extends beyond her impressive career. It is in the relationships she built, the advice she gave, and the love she spread that her true impact will be felt for years to come. Her passing has left a profound void in the lives of her colleagues, friends, and family, but her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched. From her work as an HR leader to her role as a beloved family member, Jessica’s contributions will never be forgotten.

As friends, family, and colleagues mourn this heartbreaking loss, they also celebrate the life of a woman who gave so much of herself to others. Jessica Sclafani’s influence will live on in the respect she earned, the love she inspired, and the positive changes she brought to those around her. Her legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and dedication to making the world a better place—both in her work and in her personal life. Jessica will forever be remembered as a beloved leader, mentor, and family woman, whose spirit continues to inspire all who were lucky enough to know her.