As a young and ambitious individual, Gena began her creative journey by writing plays and performing them for a captive audience of barnyard animals and her siblings on the family farm, showcasing her talent and charisma from a tender age. This early start laid the foundation for her future success, as she went on to graduate summa cum laude from Ball State University in Indiana, where she was one of the first recipients of a prestigious David Letterman Internship.
Gena's professional career took off as she started acting in local and regional productions, honing her craft and developing her versatility as a performer. In addition to her acting work, she also worked as a copywriter and talent for local radio, and wrote short stories for children's publications, demonstrating her range and adaptability.
Her big break came when she was chosen from over 1000 contestants in a Nationwide Talent Search for Aaron Spelling's first daytime soap, "Sunset Beach," and she made the solo drive to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams.
Gena has since acted in a wide range of productions, from comedic and dramatic roles in television and film, to commercials and voiceovers. She has also worked behind the camera, taking on roles in casting, continuity, writing, consulting, and production, showcasing her ability to excel in multiple aspects of the entertainment industry.
One of her most notable projects was the acclaimed show "Jonna's Body, please hold," where she worked on both the play and film versions. She also co-wrote her first screenplay with her writing partner, Kristin Palombo, and produced and debuted the short film version of "She's a Biscuit" at the LA Film School.
Gena has had the privilege of working on several notable projects, including the haunting independent film "The Yellow Wallpaper," shot in sweltering Georgia by director Logan Thomas. She worked alongside Hollywood greats and up-and-coming talent, including Michael Moriarty, Raymond J. Barry, Veronica Cartwright, Dale Dickey, Juliet Landau, Sharon Blackwood, Jessi Case, Kyla Kenedy, and Joe Williamson.
She received favorable reviews for her role as the mother of a serial killer in prolific writer/director Jared Cohn's "Death Pool," working alongside deadly film son, Randy Wayne.
In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Gena is also passionate about art, photography, travel, and fundraising and volunteer work with multiple charities, including Friends of El Faro, Camp Harmony, LA Food Bank, and HoldYou Foundation. She is also a warrior, speaker, t-shirt creator, and advocate for cancer awareness.
As an avid traveler, Gena created a project called "Redressing the Globe," where she re-wears a dress she got for a friend's wedding, all over the world, and hopes to create a way to help young girls afford dresses for momentous occasions.
