Jennifer Thielen
Jennifer Thielen has been a driving force at Nebraska Children and Families Foundation for over a decade, helping shape the organization’s internal culture, strategic direction, and long-term sustainability. She began her journey at NCFF by building employment pathways for older youth transitioning out of foster care—work that sparked her deep engagement with the organization’s broader mission of connecting systems, building partnerships, and supporting communities through a collective impact approach. As her role evolved, Jennifer took on responsibilities in fund development and building strategic partnerships, gaining a comprehensive view of NCFF’s community prevention system. She supported community collaboratives across Nebraska through training in collective impact and systems change. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she shifted her focus inward, applying those same principles to NCFF’s internal operations by developing structures and processes that foster alignment and collaboration.
Today, Jennifer’s leadership spans internal operations, organizational culture, and strategic vision. Internal Operations Grounded in Collective Impact – Jennifer leads efforts to build internal systems that support shared goals, clear communication, and collaborative teaming. People and Culture – She champions a people-first culture rooted in servant leadership, inclusion, and consensus-building, ensuring staff feel supported, valued, and connected to NCFF’s mission. Vision and Sustainability – Jennifer works closely with NCFF’s board and executive leadership on strategic visioning, board engagement, and long-term sustainability planning.
Jennifer serves as a connector who bridges efforts throughout the organization, helping staff stay grounded in shared values, collective goals, and the organization’s mission.
Before joining NCFF, Jennifer built a diverse professional foundation in hospitality and nonprofit leadership, including roles in restaurant development and social services. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Nebraska Omaha and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Boston University. Jennifer lives in Omaha with her husband, Nick, and their three daughters. She brings a thoughtful, relationship-centered approach to leadership, grounded in collaboration and purpose. Her passion lies in creating environments where people feel connected and empowered to contribute to lasting, mission-driven impact.
