A Tidewater native, Jane Batten grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, and now resides in Virginia Beach. She is a community activist and philanthropist with a particular interest in education and the environment. She is the widow of Frank Batten, prominent media figure, former chairman of the Associated Press, and founder of the Weather Channel. She traveled extensively with him. Always a serious reader, she is fascinated by words. She lives part-time on the Eastern Shore of Virginia where she owns two historic properties. She attended Hollins College (now University). She has three children and six grandchildren.