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 University of Nevada, Reno 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.

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, Professor Dewar 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.

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, Jenna 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, University of Nevada, Reno (2025)
  • Outstanding Outreach, College of Education & Human Development, University of Nevada, Reno (2025)
  • Community Champion, Reno City Council (2024)
  • Senior Scholar Mentor (2024)
  • Service-Learning Faculty of the Year, University of Nevada, Reno (2024)
  • 35 Under 35 Award, Kappa Alpha Theta (2021)
  • Service-Learning Faculty of the Year, University of Nevada, Reno (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, University of Nevada, Reno (2016)
  • 20 Under 40 Award Winner, Reno Young Professionals Network (2016)

In the Media

Education

  • M.S. in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS), University of Nevada, Reno
  • B.S. in Early Childhood Education, University of Nevada, Reno

Professional Certification

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