Image
Loading...
Jenny Edmonds, a veteran communications strategist and longtime public servant, has been named Associate Dean of Communications and Marketing at Duke’s Sanford School of Public Policy. She began her new role in July.
Edmonds brings over three decades of experience in strategic communications, public engagement, and policy outreach for government agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations. Most recently, she served as Director of Policy Analysis and Communications at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, where she helped shape national conversations on air quality, climate change, and public health.
“Jenny brings to Sanford a rare blend of deep policy expertise, strategic communications leadership, and a genuine passion for public service,” said Manoj Mohanan, interim dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy. “Her decades of experience translating complex issues into compelling, accessible narratives will be an incredible asset as we continue to share Sanford’s impact with the world. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”
A native of Castleton, New York, Edmonds’ career has spanned public health, regulatory outreach, and science communication. From communicating to citizens about the risks from toxic pollution to managing air pollution alerts during wildfires, her work has helped make complex and high-stakes information more understandable to people across the country.
At Sanford, Edmonds will lead the school’s communications and marketing strategy, overseeing media relations, branding, digital storytelling, and strategic outreach. She will guide a team dedicated to elevating the school’s teaching, research, and service missions, and will serve as a key member of the school’s leadership team.
“Sanford’s commitment to knowledge in the service of society resonates deeply with me,” Edmonds said. “I believe in the power of public policy to change lives for the better, and in the importance of communicating that work clearly and creatively. I’m honored to join a school with such a strong legacy and inspiring mission.”
Earlier in her career, Edmonds held two congressional fellowships, one with the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and another in the office of Congressman Maurice Hinchey. She advised on legislation and communications, building experience that informs her public policy perspective to this day.
Her academic credentials include a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Drew University. In her free time, Edmonds enjoys theater, traveling with her family, and the occasional improv class.
“I’ve always been drawn to work that helps people make informed decisions, whether it’s policymakers, students, or families trying to protect their health,” she said. “I’m excited to bring that same commitment to Sanford and to help tell the stories that show how public policy makes a difference.”