Partnering for Impact: The Jordan Leigh Foundation’s Inspiring Practicum Experience with Willis College

Jill Prosser (L) and Jodi McCullough (R), co-founders of The Jordan Leigh Foundation

When Jodi McCullough first envisioned The Jordan Leigh Foundation, her goal was to create a platform that promotes mental health awareness, supports individuals affected by addiction, and works to reduce the stigma surrounding these issues. Inspired by the life and values of her identical twin sister Jordan, Jodi and their lifelong friend, Jillian Prosser, established the foundation on March 15, 2024 – one year after Jordan’s passing. Today, the Foundation is dedicated to education, advocacy, and meaningful community outreach.

On March 14th, 2023, Jodi spoke with her sister for the last time. Jordan faced ongoing challenges related to addiction and mental health, and her journey continues to shape and inspire the values and direction of the foundation’s work today.

“Jordan was an amazing person, full of life, kindness, and empathy,” says Jodi of her late sister. “She was a talented artist and a great friend who touched the lives of everyone she met.”
Despite her struggles, Jordan’s life was one of resilience. After spending 90 days in a rehab facility, she became sober and began dedicating her life to helping others walk the same path. Her dream was to break the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction – to show the world that people are not defined by their battles, and that compassion must come before judgment.

“In memory of my sister, The Jordan Leigh Foundation is committed to carrying on her mission and her legacy,” Jodi shares. “We want to create a world where kindness, understanding, and support are always present so that people don’t feel ashamed to seek help.”

Jodi and her sister, Jordan. The Foundation was established in Jordan’s name to honour her legacy of resilience through mental health advocacy, addiction support, and meaningful community impact.

A Practicum with Purpose

Willis College was proud to partner with The Jordan Leigh Foundation in its mission to create meaningful change in the mental health and addiction space. In April 2025, the Foundation welcomed Callum, a student from the College’s Accounting and Payroll Technician diploma program, for a four-week practicum placement.

The Accounting and Payroll Technician (APT) Program at Willis College is a 32-week intensive diploma designed to provide students with the practical skills and foundational knowledge needed for careers in accounting and payroll. The curriculum covers accounting principles, bookkeeping, payroll administration, and financial and managerial accounting, along with business communications and training in industry-standard software such as Microsoft Office and QuickBooks. This program prepares graduates for roles such as accounting assistants, payroll clerks, and bookkeeping specialists, equipping them to contribute immediately in today’s dynamic business environments.

The four-week practicum provided Callum with valuable hands-on experience in his chosen field, allowing him to apply the concepts and theories he learned throughout the APT program in a real-world setting.

Mutual Growth, Mutual Gratitude

Jordan McCullough. For The Jordan Leigh Foundation, becoming a practicum host was not just an act of mentorship – it was a valuable and mutual exchange of energy and inspiration.

For The Jordan Leigh Foundation, the practicum placement was not just an act of mentorship – it was a valuable and mutual exchange of energy and inspiration.

“Practicum placements offer so much more than extra help,” said Jodi. “They bring new energy, fresh perspectives, and authentic passion. For us, it was a way to strengthen our mission by inviting in someone who could carry it forward in new ways.”

From day one, Callum proved to be more than just a student – he became an advocate and a collaborator. His openness, creativity, and genuine care left a lasting impact on the team and the community they serve.

From Callum’s point of view, the practicum placement gave him the opportunity to make a difference in a way that resonated with his personal goals. “My time at The Jordan Leigh Foundation was something special… [it] felt real, not just a name. It showed me this was more than just school, it was about people too.”

Jodi’s advice to other organizations considering a practicum partnership?

“Absolutely do it. It’s a powerful way to give back and invest in future professionals. With Callum, we saw firsthand how a practicum student could help us connect with the next generation – especially future students.”

And to other non-profits contemplating a practicum partnership?

“Hosting a practicum student is a chance to align with education, empower future leaders, and deepen your mission.”

More Than a Partnership

As Jodi reflects on the experience, she expresses deep gratitude—not only for Callum but also for the opportunity to work alongside Willis College.

“Willis College emphasizes real-world readiness, compassion, and professionalism,” Jodi said. “Callum came to us prepared, respectful, and eager to learn.”

“We are forever grateful to Willis College for giving us the opportunity to present The Jordan Leigh Foundation workshop and for trusting a new organization like ours,” she adds. “Their support in our mission meant the world to us.”

Become a Practicum Host

Hosting a practicum student from Willis College is more than mentorship – it’s a meaningful opportunity to engage with passionate, ready-to-learn individuals who bring fresh perspectives, energy, and heart to your mission.

Whether you’re a growing non-profit, an established business, or a community-based initiative, becoming a practicum host allows you to:

✅ Contribute to workforce development
✅Gain valuable support on projects
✅ Share your expertise and inspire future professionals
✅ Deepen your organization’s impact and outreach

Interested in becoming a practicum host?
Connect with us today to learn how you can get involved.

CONTACT THE CAREER SERVICES TEAM →

To learn more about The Jordan Leigh Foundation and how you can support their mission, visit: www.thejordanleighfoundation.com.

This feature is part of our Employer Spotlight series, highlighting the organizations that provide our students with valuable hands-on experience.