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in change

We are a network of leaders committed to building an equitable future.

jennifer saenz

Network Advisor

As Network Advisor, Jennifer Saenz helps accelerate the work and impact of Cradle to Career Network members who have reached the Systems Change or Systems Transformation gateways along our Theory of Action™. She provides thought partnership, connects network members to resources and facilitates the delivery of various network offerings.

Jennifer joins StriveTogether from Cradle to Career Network member E3 Alliance, where she served as the senior director of communications and policy, spearheading initiatives aimed at fortifying the nation’s educational pipeline to drive regional economic prosperity. Before her tenure at E3 Alliance, Jennifer was the director of strategic partnerships and outreach at OnRamps, a program led by The University of Texas dedicated to bridging the gap between high school and college academic expectations. In that role, Jennifer played a pivotal part in expanding OnRamps’ reach to tens of thousands of students, educators and schools across Texas, establishing it as a statewide leader in the realm of college credit-bearing programs.

With 28 years of experience in both the private and public education sectors, including roles at the Texas Education Agency, Jennifer possesses a profound understanding of the education pipeline and systems. Her expertise lies in forging cross-sector partnerships and driving the adoption of state policies conducive to educational advancement. Jennifer’s firsthand experience at E3 Alliance illuminated the barriers students encounter on their path to postsecondary attainment, motivating her advocacy for student empowerment and engagement. She actively contributed to the Student Voice Council, funded by Gates and led by Tides, where she participated in developing a framework centered on empowering youth and families.

Jennifer holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Southwest Texas University and a master’s degree in education administration.

hear from jennifer

Communities in the StriveTogether Cradle to Career Network are working to improve all the systems that impact youth and families, like health care, housing, transportation, justice and more. Share why one adjacent sector is important to you.

Health care holds particular importance to me. Having a child with an autoimmune disease, I understand firsthand the impact on her ability to be successful in school when she is not feeling well. I also realize that without access to health care, she wouldn’t be able to receive the treatments that have allowed her to continue to thrive. When students struggle physically or mentally, their academic performance suffers. Ensuring that all students and families have access to high-quality health care is essential for their overall success in education.