Jennifer Torsen was born and raised in Ouzinkie, graduated from Kodiak High School, and attended the University of Alaska Anchorage. Her parents were Herman and Martha Anderson. She has been married to Ernest (Tubby) Torsen for 12 years. She has four children – Rachel Torsen, Candi Squartsoff, Amanda Holden and Peter Squartsoff.

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Jennifer's background includes working as a clerk for the City of Ouzinkie and serving on the School Board, Tribal Council and the Church Council. She worked as an Administrative Assistant for the Ouzinkie Native Corporation from 2004-2012.