Discover what it truly means to lead with impact as Dr. Andrea Jackson-Jennings, Managing Director of the Regional Response Team, shares her extraordinary journey from university cashier to champion of vulnerable communities. She opens up about the front-line realities of managing explosive budget growth during global crises and the vital importance of building long-term, trust-based relationships across public and private sectors. Listen in to learn how pairing humility with curiosity can transform your leadership approach and help you leave your community better than you found it.
Episode 387: Leaving Your Community Better Than You Found It with Dr. Andrea Jackson-Jennings
Bio: Andrea Jackson-Jennings has been the Managing Director of the Regional Response Team since September 2021. The RRT is a collaborative group of non-profits, governmental, and philanthropic partners created to coordinate responses for vulnerable populations during crises.
Jackson-Jennings was previously appointed Director of the St. Louis County Department of Human Services in December 2011. Jackson-Jennings managed a $13 million operating budget of eight (8) divisions that provide quality programs and services to enrich the lives of St. Louis County residents. During the pandemic, Jackson-Jennings’s budget increased by $39 million to respond to the emerging needs by deploying funds for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, Housing and Urban Development (unhoused neighbors), and Community Development Block Grant. Before joining St. Louis County, Jackson-Jennings was Associate Director of Student Financial Aid at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. One of her most rewarding responsibilities included providing scholarship opportunities to deserving students.
Jackson-Jennings earned a Doctor of Education and a Master of Education from the University of Missouri -St. Louis. Jackson-Jennings is also a former Adjunct Professor in the College of Education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Jackson-Jennings serves on several boards and commissions, including being appointed by the governor to the Bi-State Board of Directors.
Jackson-Jennings is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Saint Louis Metropolitan Alumnae, and The Archway Links Incorporated. Jackson-Jennings has been a member of the New Sunny Missionary Baptist Church for forty years.
Something Extra: “I would pair humility with curiosity, and the team can foster trust and support for each other, and then we’ll end up with a better product at the end.”
