Jennifer McDonald

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT JENNIFER MCDONALD

My love of stories started at an early age when I learned that sentences strung together could take me on an adventure through forbidden forests and even to the stars in a rocket ship. That love of storytelling has followed me into my career journey where I\'ve learned that powerful storytelling linked with data can move people to achieve great things for their communities. I started my journey as a journalist telling people\'s stories and the stories of their communities. This passion transitioned into communication roles in K12 and higher ed. Compelling storytelling has led tax payers to pass bond elections that have led to economic growth and bright futures for students. It\'s brought industry and education together to build innovative projects. My passion is also about change management and helping people adjust to fast-paced environments. Get curious about your people, help them through change and see your ROI skyrocket. For the past few years, I\'m the person you come to when your project is off track or needs help growing. I\'ve helped my employer build strategic partnerships that benefit both parties and take them beyond expectations. For example, I was a lead on a partnership to build the first early college high school on Central New Mexico Community College\'s campus. This high school is now one of the top performing high schools in the state and it came about by building trust and a common vision to drive toward. I\'m the business owner lead for CNM\'s implementation of Salesforce, working with vendors as well as ITS and collegewide colleagues. I love helping teams work through the sticky side of projects to come to future state success.I also teach entrepreneurship as a part-time business faculty member. Entrepreneurs are problem solvers whether they start their own business or work for someone else. I love teaching students to see opportunities, not problems. Our projects focus on Design Thinking and putting the customer first. When I\'m not working, I\'m running, CrossFitting or reading. Cakes are my newest obsession. On amazing days you\'ll find my kitchen infused with the smell of sugary goodness and my countertops dotted with frosting.