Jessica Duren joined SHEEO in 2022 as the Strategic Communications Director. In her role, Duren drives external communications, membership outreach, and public relations, including SHEEO websites, social media, event promotion, distribution and development of publications, and media relations.

Duren previously served as Assistant Commissioner for Communications & Outreach for the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development. As a member of the senior leadership team, she was instrumental in helping to develop the department’s strategic plan in 2021. She set the direction for the department’s marketing efforts to share the importance of all education beyond high school and the impact of education and training for today’s workforce. Prior to her time at the department, Duren was a copy editor and reporter for the Jefferson City News Tribune and the editor of three weekly papers in Northeast Iowa.

Duren holds a bachelor’s degree in print journalism from Missouri State University.