Education Leadership Continuity
Governor-elect Mike Braun has reaffirmed his commitment to bolstering Indiana education system by retaining Katie Jenner as the state’s Secretary of Education. Jenner, who has held the position since 2021, was commended by Braun for her effective leadership, including spearheading Indiana’s largest investment in literacy and implementing innovative initiatives like the Graduates Prepared to Succeed program. This initiative seeks to redefine how school performance and student achievement are measured, aligning with the administration’s broader educational goals.
Jenner’s tenure has been marked by efforts to enhance teacher recruitment and retention through a comprehensive supply-demand marketplace and a focus on improving statewide graduation rates. A former senior education advisor to outgoing Governor Eric Holcomb, Jenner’s experience includes roles in K-12 initiatives at Ivy Tech Community College and leadership positions within Madison Consolidated Schools.
“Dr. Jenner’s proven track record of elevating Indiana’s education system makes her the ideal choice to continue leading our state’s academic initiatives,” Braun stated. Jenner’s agenda under Braun’s administration will focus on college and career readiness, enhanced literacy and math outcomes, universal school choice, and increasing teacher base pay. Expressing gratitude, Jenner remarked, “Together, we will build upon the progress we’ve made and address the evolving needs of our education system.”
Commerce Secretary Appointment
Braun also named David Adams as Indiana education next Secretary of Commerce, emphasizing his vision for economic growth and innovation. Adams, a former state workforce development commissioner, brings extensive experience in economic development, including leading the turnaround of Indiana’s pension systems under former Governor Mitch Daniels. Notably, under Adams’ leadership, Indiana’s workforce ranking in CNBC’s “America’s Top States for Business” improved dramatically from 48th to 14th.
Adams’ responsibilities will include driving job creation, fostering an entrepreneurial environment, and accelerating business growth across the state. Highlighting his expertise, Braun’s transition team pointed to Adams’ role as chief innovation officer at the University of Cincinnati, where he developed the Cincinnati Innovation District, a model for economic development in Ohio. Adams has also contributed to the private sector as a founding member of i2 Technologies, a supply chain management software company, and currently serves on the Purdue Research Foundation board.
“David’s experience in workforce development and economic innovation will be invaluable as we strive to enhance Indiana’s economic momentum,” Braun said. Adams expressed enthusiasm for his new role, noting, “We have an opportunity to recruit and build a talent pipeline, and I’m eager to work with Governor-elect Braun and the General Assembly to take our state to new heights.”
Strategic Vision for Indiana’s Future
Braun’s latest appointments complement earlier announcements for budget and transportation leadership, signaling a strategic approach to shaping Indiana’s future. His administration’s focus on education, economic growth, and workforce readiness underscores a commitment to preparing Indiana education for long-term prosperity. With experienced leaders like Jenner and Adams at the helm, Braun aims to capitalize on the state’s momentum and implement transformative policies to benefit Hoosiers statewide.
