Senior Executive Director, University Housing and Culinary Services
Division of Student Affairs, Kent Campus
Jill Jenkins is a leader who supports and uplifts those around her while she truly works to build a distinctive and inclusive Kent State University. She is a senior administrator who stays connected to her colleagues and Kent State students; her top priority is putting students first. To keep tabs on what students prefer in their housing and dining experiences, she regularly connects informally through town hall discussions and Kent Interhall Council meetings. She recently cleared her schedule to meet with a student who had an idea to make the move-in process more inclusive. That idea became a successful part of move-in day.
During the pandemic, Jenkins was key in contacting students, answering questions and organizing property pick-up. As staffing challenges arose, she enthusiastically tackled new roles, taking on the work of several people while remaining in touch with her staff to make sure all had what they needed to be successful. Jenkins’ dedication to Kent State is demonstrated every day as she works to transform the lives of our students, staff and the community through her leadership, her work and genuine caring.