Jennifer Brooks directs research, policy analysis, technical assistance and resource development for governors and their staff across a range of policy issues. The division covers economic development and innovation; workforce development focused on industry-based strategies; pathways to employment and populations with special needs; and human services for children, youth, low-income families and people with disabilities.

Brooks most recently served as the team lead for Head Start research in the Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation in the Administration of Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). During Brooks’ time as team leader, and also on a detail to the Office of Management and Budget, she developed and initiated research to improve the gaps among policy, research and practice. Prior to her position at DHHS, Brooks worked as a senior associate studying human services programs at Caliber Associates and Child Trends.

Brooks received her Ph.D. and M.S. in human development and family studies from Penn State University. She also holds a M.A. in public policy studies from the University of Chicago and graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. from Lehigh University.