Information and evidence are essential to drive good decisionmaking and ensure that everyone navigating their journeys—from early education through the workforce— gets the support they need to succeed.
Jennifer is President and CEO of the Data Quality Campaign, a nonprofit policy and advocacy organization leading the effort to ensure that data works for everyone navigating their education and workforce journeys.
Prior to DQC, Jennifer served at the US Department of Education first as director of the Policy and Program Studies Services and later as Acting Assistant Secretary for the Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Policy. In these roles, Jennifer led a team of researchers and policy analysts to provide analytic support and research expertise to enable department staff to make evidence-based decisions, inform policy development by analyzing data, and conduct objective reviews of department products, all with an eye to making informed decisions that benefit America’s students.
After beginning her career as a kindergarten and first-grade teacher in Bronx, New York, working directly with underserved students, Jennifer brought her classroom experience to the central office of the New York City Department of Education, where she served as senior advisor to the chancellor and executive director of research and policy support. In 2012, Jennifer joined Baltimore City Public Schools first as chief achievement and accountability officer and then as the interim chief of staff for the Baltimore City Public Schools, leading the district through a change of administration while continuing to help it stay focused on student achievement.
Who are your education heroes? Ms. Heidelberg, my fourth grade math teacher, who showed us that girls can rock math.
Tell us a data use story that you love. The Georgia Tunnel.
If you could have dinner with any three people, who would they be? My 3 kids! Whenever we get a chance to have a family meal, it is time to celebrate.
