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Jenna Dewar, M.S., CFLE

Senior Lecturer of Human Development and Family Science
Jenna Dewar photo
she/her/hers

Summary

Jenna Dewar (she/her/hers) is a self-driven higher education advocate who has taught at the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø since 2009. Though she began her academic journey with the goal of becoming an early childhood educator, she quickly discovered her passion for higher education and the collaborative energy it fosters. Professor Dewar thrives on connecting with students, colleagues and community partners to activate the power of hands-on learning and inspire the next generation of professionals.

Her teaching philosophy is rooted in resilience, empathy and a commitment to growth—values she brings into every classroom and mentorship relationship. In her role, Professor Dewar integrates classroom instruction with experiential learning opportunities such as paid service-learning internships and practicums. She is deeply committed to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments that recognize and build upon the inherent strengths and untapped capabilities of each student. By mentoring students through community-engaged pedagogy, she helps cultivate self-awareness, confidence and a strong sense of purpose, ensuring they are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in their personal and professional lives.

Professor Dewar approaches her work with the belief that challenges, when met with courage and reflection, can be transformed into opportunities for growth and leadership. She models this for her students by embracing both strength and vulnerability, showing that authenticity is a cornerstone of meaningful connection and success.

Outside of her professional life, Jenna values time with her children, Hayes and Colbie, and enjoys reconnecting with nature. She is an avid skier, yoga enthusiast and lifelong Lake Tahoe local who finds joy in returning to her childhood home to visit her parents. Whether crafting, cooking or exploring outdoors, Professor Dewar is grounded in family and creativity—values that also guide her work in supporting students to lead fulfilling, empowered lives.

Awards

  • Service-Learning Faculty of the Year, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø (2025)
  • Outstanding Outreach, College of Education & Human Development, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø (2025)
  • Community Champion, Reno City Council (2024)
  • Senior Scholar Mentor (2024)
  • Service-Learning Faculty of the Year, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø (2024)
  • 35 Under 35 Award, Kappa Alpha Theta (2021)
  • Service-Learning Faculty of the Year, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø (2020)
  • Women of Silver & Blue N’Spire Award, Nevada Alumni Association (2020)
  • Senior Scholar Mentor (2018)
  • Governor’s Points of Light Individual Volunteer of Northern Nevada Finalist, Nevada Volunteers (2017)
  • Outstanding Undergraduate Advisor Award, College of Education, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø (2016)
  • 20 Under 40 Award Winner, Reno Young Professionals Network (2016)

In the Media

Education

  • M.S. in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS), ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø
  • B.S. in Early Childhood Education, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø

Professional Certification

  • Certified Family Life Educator, National Council on Family Relation
  • Nevada Registry