“When I came to the School of Journalism as a student, I knew I had found what I wanted to do with my career. I believe in the students and the mission of the J-School.” — Jennifer Kinnard

- by Brande N. Aleman

When Jennifer Kinnard stepped onto the KU campus as an undergraduate student, she had no idea what she wanted to do. Once she took her first journalism class, she knew that was her passion and her career would be in journalism. After several years working in a public relations agency and local government, she is back on the KU campus, now as the Communications Coordinator for the School of Journalism. This position was newly created when she took it.

Kinnard says her goal is to broaden the School’s communications efforts with students, alumni, donors and the community. She handles public relations efforts for the School, including event planning, publications and Web site coordination. She works on the School’s alumni newsletter, J-Links, which is mailed three times per year.

Before returning to KU in 2002, Kinnard worked at Harmon Smith Inc. Advertising in Kansas City, handling public relations efforts for national clients, including Ralston Purina, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.

Most recently she worked as the public information officer for the City of Blue Springs, Mo. She was responsible for all internal and external strategic communications. This entailed working with the mayor, city manager and city departments to communicate important city issues to Blue Springs residents. Kinnard also managed the city's Web site, public access government TV station and various print publications.

After gaining experience at Blue Springs and Harmon Smith Inc., she wanted to return to the KU campus. She said that she loved her own experience at the University and wanted to share that with others.

“When I came to the School of Journalism as a student, I instantly knew I had found what I wanted to do with my career,” Kinnard said. “I believe in the students and the mission of the School. The professors and students here are extraordinary, and I really wanted to be involved in contributing to the experience and education of other students.”

Kinnard enjoys interacting with faculty and students.

“It is a team atmosphere around here,” Kinnard said. “There is so much knowledge to be shared.”

Kinnard says that being back on the KU campus has rejuvenated her and her love for her alma mater.

“I love being on campus and around students,” Kinnard said. “There are so many open-minded people. The energy generated in an educational atmosphere is truly inspiring.”