As the Chief of Staff, Jennifer is responsible for identifying and implementing opportunities for improved coordination and efficient processes while also managing ZERO TO THREE’s organizational strategic planning process to prioritize and pursue organizational goals. She also provides strategic and operational support to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors and the Committee on the Board, identifying key issues and planning and preparing for Board meetings. Jennifer applies strategies to strengthen team effectiveness, fostering a more cohesive and impactful organization.
Jennifer brings extensive experience in the early childhood field, including management and leadership in areas such as child development, family engagement, home visiting, infant and early childhood mental health, early learning and program management and supervision. Prior to her current role, Jennifer was the Director of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Coordination and Strategy. In her career, she also directed two Head Start national technical assistance centers – the National Center on Early Childhood Development, Teaching, and Learning, and the Early Head Start National Resource Center at ZERO TO THREE.
Before joining ZERO TO THREE, Jennifer worked as a mental health clinician for children and families in homes, schools, and clinics. Jennifer has contributed to articles and book chapters, as well as conducted numerous trainings on early childhood development and early childhood mental health. She received a BA from the University of Virginia, an MSW from Howard University and completed post-graduate clinical training at the Yale University Child Study Center and the Washington School of Psychiatry in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. Jennifer’s experience supporting and learning from families and children with diverse backgrounds and life stories has fueled her passion for ensuring that all families and babies have opportunities for the best start in life.
