Faculty Agenda

Jessica Jennings is the National Director of Community Impact and Outreach at Community Medical Services, where she leads nationwide initiatives to expand access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders. With nearly eight years of experience in social work, behavioral health, and addiction recovery, Jessica draws from her professional expertise and personal journey in long-term recovery to guide her work.

She began her career in Columbus, Ohio, serving women in recovery as a program coordinator and case manager. Over time, she advanced through leadership roles including lead counselor and housing supervisor, and eventually joined Community Medical Services, where she was promoted from counselor to Regional Community Impact Manager for Ohio. In that role, she built a recovery-focused system of care, fostered authentic partnerships across the state, and championed efforts to reduce stigma around medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).

An accomplished speaker and passionate advocate, Jessica frequently presents at local, state, and national conferences, guest lectures in academic settings, and shares her recovery story across media platforms. She is also a dedicated board member of Heartland High School, supporting students in recovery through education and community engagement and the Ohio Deflection Association promoting deflection best practices throughout the country. Jessica’s work is driven by her belief in ethical, individualized care and the power of lived experience to drive meaningful systems change.