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Jessica Hardick Pappas

Jessica (Hardick) Pappas graduated from Christian Central Academy (CCA) in 2004 and soon after embarked on a journey filled with personal and professional growth. She began her college education at Houghton College but later transferred to the University at Buffalo (UB), where she completed her degree in Accounting. In 2009, she passed the CPA exam, launching a successful career with Ernst & Young (EY). At EY, Jessica worked in audit across various industries, gaining valuable experience in Buffalo, New York City, and Boston.
In 2014, Jessica transitioned from public accounting to a Financial Manager role at The Chapel, where she spent seven years leading organizational finance and developing a personal stewardship initiative. Her passion for helping others manage their finances led her to start her own business, Mrs. CFO, in 2021. Through her company, she provides CFO-level accounting services to small businesses and nonprofits, helping them thrive without the need for a full-time hire.
Amidst her career milestones, Jessica’s personal life flourished as well. In 2013, she married Jason Pappas, and together they’ve built a family with four children: Zoe Grace, Sophia Kay, Talia Anne, and Nikolas Jay. Their two oldest daughters now attend CCA, giving Jessica a unique perspective as a parent watching her children enjoy the same school that shaped her own life.
Looking back on her time at CCA, Jessica treasures the memories she made with friends and teachers. From participating in gym class dance routines to being part of the basketball team, her time at CCA was filled with fun and meaningful experiences. She recalls senior trips, passing notes in class, and even the snowstorm that resulted in an unplanned overnight stay in the gym. Each of these moments contributed to a sense of community that made her time at CCA special.
While no specific academic lessons stand out, Jessica appreciates how her time at CCA helped her get into the colleges she wanted and set her on the path toward a fulfilling career. More importantly, she recognizes the influence of the teachers who cared deeply about her growth, even if they weren’t perfect. Teachers like Coach Tom, Mrs. Conschafter, Mrs. Lawrence, Mrs. Hill, Mrs. Wade, Mrs. Pontrello, and Mr. Kickbush made a lasting impact on Jessica, and she’s grateful for the love and guidance they provided.

To current students and recent graduates, Jessica offers a piece of advice: "You may be 'too cool' for school (CCA) now, but don’t underestimate the positive impact it will have on your forever life." She encourages students to think for themselves and to remember that, while people are imperfect, the experiences they have at CCA will leave a lasting impression.
Faith plays an integral role in Jessica’s life. In August 2009, she experienced a profound spiritual awakening that changed her entire perspective. Although she wasn’t actively following Jesus during her time at CCA, Jessica believes the lessons she learned and the people she encountered at school acted as a catalyst for her faith. Since then, her faith has been the driving force behind every decision, from her marriage and family life to her career and how she engages with the world around her. She feels that God has directed each step, big and small, from her job choices to how she raises her children and interacts with her community.
Today, Jessica is still engaged with CCA, particularly in the financial realm, and loves seeing her children thrive at the school. She and her family are also active in their local church, participating in small groups, Bible studies, and leadership roles. Jessica and her husband are passionate about giving back, and they’re involved with Generous Giving, an organization that brings people together to celebrate the joy of generosity.
Jessica’s journey from CCA to where she is today is a testament to the lasting impact of a Christ-centered education and the strength that faith provides throughout life’s many stages. Through her career, family, and community involvement, she continues to live out the values instilled in her during her time at CCA.

Christian Central Academy