Jean Nidetch grew up in a tiny farming community in the hills of Virginia, where she spent her childhood exploring abandoned houses and climbing trees. She attended the College of William and Mary, where she majored in English and French literature, as well as writing courses at night. She graduated from college with a B.A. degree in English and French literature, as well as a minor in journalism
Read more
Jean's first job was as an editorial assistant at The Associated Press. It was there that she would meet her future husband Bill Nidetch, who would become president and chief executive officer of the Associated Press for nearly three decades. Jean worked for American Airlines following her marriage to Bill and became one of the first female pilots for the company's new shuttle service between Washington D.C., New York City and Boston.
Later she would become a media advisor to American Airlines, helping them establish their first airline magazine, The Flyer. In that role, Jean oversaw all aspects of the magazine’s design and layout. She continues to serve as an advisor to The Flyer today and is also a spokesperson for American Airlines' Go Go Lounge program.