Jessica Brown is an internationally recognized expert and policymaker with extensive experience in the nexus of global climate change, development, and poverty reduction. Currently the Director of Special Projects at the ClimateWorks Foundation, Jessica supports the Foundation’s efforts to advance racial and social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of the organization.
Hailing from Walnut Creek, CA, Jessica graduated from Hyde in 1998, a year after brother Jeremy, currently a professor of theology at Notre Dame. Jessica continued her studies at Barnard College, graduating with a B.A. degree in political science and then earned her master's degree in international development from the London School of Economics and another in Public Administration in Environmental Science from Columbia University.
Before joining ClimateWorks, Jessica was a foreign affairs officer at the U.S. State Department, where she led the international climate finance negotiations. She has also held various positions at the Overseas Development Institute, Climate Policy Initiative and California Environmental Associates.
Jessica and her mother, Caree Brown, spoke to the Hyde community via Zoom during the pandemic. Jessica shared deeply about her Hyde experience - how she learned to accept excellence over perfection at Hyde and later balancing motherhood with a career. She is a testament to the belief that a foundation of self-awareness and character leads to achievements and fulfillment that positively impacts our world.
Along with Jessica’s efforts to save the planet, she also finds time to share her artistic side as a multi-disciplinary dancer and professional dance cardio instructor. Jessica lives in Berkeley, CA with her partner Charlie Parker and their 2 children.
