From 2016 to 2025, Jennifer functioned as the principal strategic and operational leader for enterprise-wide research programs & initiatives reporting to the Vice President for Research at the University of Cincinnati. Her role centered on translating the university's highest research priorities into operational reality through the conceptualization, launch, and management of complex, multi-million dollar investments including Urban Futures, a cornerstone of the university’s strategic plan; Digital Futures; the National Security Research Institute; the Institute for Transportation Infrastructure and Workforce Development; and BioFutures.

Jennifer spent the latter part of her career bridging academia, government, industry, and economic development. By aligning the interests of economic development organizations, public agencies, private-sector leaders, and elected officials, she became a force multiplier - helping transform ambitious ideas into collaborative opportunities, institutional priorities, and investable programs.