Jessica Thompson

In her role as Senior Policy Associate, Jessica collaborates with scholars to connect and strengthen engagement with policymakers and civic organizations. She is passionate about elevating the voices of researchers throughout the policymaking process.

Prior to joining the Scholars Strategy Network, Jessica spent more than eight years in policymaking at the U.S. Senate and U.S. House Of Representatives. She most recently served as Legislative Director where she managed a team of Congressional staffers and worked on a wide range of policy initiatives, including improved federal response to disasters, responsible stewardship of national resources, human rights and religious freedoms, space discovery, opportunities for students, small businesses and underserved communities, resilient transportation and infrastructure, and more. Jessica has experience engaging with legislative bodies and Presidential administrations on both sides of the political aisle. She also participated in certificate programs and seminars at the Wilson Center, U.S.-Asia Institute, Center for Strategic and International Studies, and others.

Jessica currently resides in her home state of Florida where she enjoys nature, creative projects, and spending time with her cat, rabbit, and dog.