
Jennifer Merrell is a keynote speaker, higher ed advocate, and inspirational leader dedicated to leading a life full of passion and continuous learning from making the right mistakes. Jennifer candidly addresses the common fear of the unknown and encourages an approach that has miraculously worked in her favor—to keep getting up again regardless of the circumstances. Jennifer describes her journey navigating a series of directional changes as “The Uncharted Trail,” where curiosity sparks self-discovery and the beginning of all great adventures. Offering a wealth of experience in multiple industries and positions, Jennifer’s story radiates perseverance, courage, and bravery. Her ability to captivate audiences ranging from young to tenured drives her message home—leaving behind nuggets of wisdom and a proposal for launching into action.
3 Fun Facts About Me…
I have driven supercars over 150 mph at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
I am a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher and have been teaching for nearly 20 years!
I have trekked to many mountain tops and will be hiking the Inca Trail in June 2025.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
KEYNOTES
THE UNCHARTED TRAIL
A story of resilience that will inspire anyone who has ever felt lost, worried they may get lost, or found themselves lost somewhere along the trail of career and life.
DYNAMICS OF POWER
We unravel the concept of spheres of influence and explore how to leverage this powerful network to grow your business, career, or personal life.
ACING THE INTERVIEW: STORYTELLING
Interviews are not about technical skills. Learn how to develop and use relatable narratives to make a stronger connection in the interview.
NAVIGATING GEN Z’s EXPECTATIONS IN THE MODERN WORKPLACE
Emphasizing the elements of workplace culture, we will look at the gaps in expectations between employers and our newest generation in the workforce.
Custom keynotes upon request.
EMCEE
Looking for a dynamic emcee for your next event?
Elevate your event with an experienced and charismatic host who can ensure your audience is entertained and engaged. Check out a clip here.
PROFESSIONAL DOT CONNECTOR
My aspirations are simple: To do good things for good people for good reasons.
What exactly is a professional dot connector? In essence, I can recognize patterns, build connections, and sense potential shifts within organizations. With over 25 years of leadership in a variety of industries and roles, I thrive in guiding both organizations and individuals through unique challenges.
“I care about tech skills for all, the college to career transition, and the advancement of rising leaders.”

Testimonials
ABOUT JENNIFER

Starting as a dance performance major, Jennifer graduated from Butler University with a degree in Corporate Communications, served as social chairman of her sorority, won an alcohol-awareness award, and spent a season as a cheerleader (you followed that, right?).
Jennifer’s life and career are intertwined in a series of directional changes that she best describes as ”a trail I’ve used a machete to hack through.” Over the span of her 25+ year career, Jennifer has served in multiple industries including entertainment, sports & fitness, tech, real estate, and economic development. She has climbed ladders and fallen off cliffs only to discover that she is driven to solve problems while elevating the people and organizations around her. She also figured out that curiosity is the start of all great adventures.
Jennifer is the retired Vice President of TechPoint, where she spent her time working to grow Indiana’s tech ecosystem, with a special focus on bridging the gap between industry and academia. Jennifer is an advocate of tech skills for all. Having been a software trainer, network administrator and more, tech has been the underlying component to opening most of her career opportunities. Today, Jennifer continues her bridge-building work between higher ed and the workforce as a consultant & keynote speaker.
Jennifer is a 2024 Leading Lights Award Nominee and 2025 Mira Award Finalist.
Bring your event and your organization to new heights.
Reach out to Jennifer via the submission form below, and connect with her on LinkedIn!