Jennifer Lench is the Executive Director of the Center for Strategic Partnerships at the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). She leads the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) program for Pennsylvania and manages the partnership with the seven Local Development Districts. She also is the Principal Investigator for the U.S. Department of Energy SMART grant and directs the Commonwealth’s Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) program, and the Manufacturing PA Industrial Resource Centers Program.

Through these initiatives, Jennifer oversees networks of more than 250 economic and workforce development professionals dedicated to supporting Pennsylvania businesses and communities. Under her leadership, the Center advances the Commonwealth’s 10-Year Economic Development Strategy by delivering resources, training, and guidance to Economic Development Organizations, Small Business Development Centers, Chambers of Commerce, and Industrial Development Organizations.

Previously, Jennifer served as Deputy Director of the Center and as Pennsylvania’s ARC State Program Manager. A native of Western Pennsylvania, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Pennsylvania State University and began her career as an elementary school teacher before moving into public service.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Commonwealth Keystone Building, Fourth Floor
400 North Street – 4th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17120-0225