At the intersection of digital strategy, grassroots organizing, and unapologetic advocacy stands UCM’s new Digital and Data Director—Jenni King‑Witzel—a leader whose work is both deeply personal and profoundly powerful. With a track record that includes over 300 campaigns across the country, a thriving online community of half a million followers, and leadership roles in organizations centering BIPOC, feminist, and justice-driven movements, Jenni brings not just experience—but heart to the work.

Inspired by a legacy of activism and lived experience, Jenni sees data as more than just numbers—it’s a tool for liberation, storytelling, and mobilizing communities too often ignored. From leading field teams to shaping digital campaigns; from her academic roots at Purdue and Harvard to her street‑tested certifications in digital strategy, data management, and grassroots organizing—she’s built a career that brings strategy and soul together.

Grounded in faith, fueled by the influence of her aunt, UN Women co-founder Angela King, and ignited by personal encounters with systemic neglect, Jenni has dedicated her life to making sure no voice goes unheard. When it comes to movement work, she’s more than all in—it’s her life’s mission.

Meet Jenni

 

What inspired you to join UCM?

What inspired me to join UCM was honestly the mission—it’s real, it’s rooted, and it speaks to what I care about: building power in our communities and making sure our people are heard. I’ve been organizing for a while and I know real change doesn’t happen unless folks come together with strategy and heart. UCM felt like a space where both those things exist. I saw an opportunity to bring my skills to the table, learn from others, and help push the work forward in a way that’s authentic and impactful. So yeah, I was like, “Let’s get it.”

What previous experience prepared you for this role?

A lot of my past experience really laid the foundation for this role. I’ve led field teams, managed digital campaigns, trained up organizers from scratch—you name it. I’ve worked on over 300 elections across the country, so I know how to move strategically and get results—whether it’s rural, urban, down-ballot, or top of the ticket.

On the digital side, I’ve built a following of over 500k people and used that platform to amplify movement work. I also lead the Angela King Foundation, Notorious Nasty Womxn, and 3WF Third Wave Feminism—three organizations that center BIPOC, feminist, and justice-driven leadership. I know how to connect the grassroots to the digital streets, and I make sure the work stays people-centered and rooted in impact.

Everything I’ve done so far has been about building power, telling our stories, and making sure we show up strong—and that’s exactly what I’m bringing here.

Are there any personal experiences that have shaped your dedication to this cause?

Yeah, definitely. My dedication to this work comes from lived experience. I didn’t get into organizing just to have a job—I got into it because I’ve seen firsthand what happens when our communities are ignored, underfunded, or straight-up targeted. I’ve navigated systems that weren’t built for us and I’ve watched loved ones fall through the cracks because no one showed up for them. That lit a fire in me early on.

And on top of that, my Aunt Angela King—who co-founded UN Women—helped shape not just my ideology, but the person I’ve become. Watching her lead on a global stage, pushing for gender equity and justice, taught me what real power and purpose look like. It made me realize that this fight is bigger than any one election or issue—it’s about shifting systems and uplifting people who’ve been left out for too long.

Every campaign I work on, every organization I build—it’s about making sure nobody feels powerless in a system that was never meant for us. I do this work so the next generation doesn’t have to fight the same battles we did.

Are there any certifications, degrees, or specialized training you’d like to highlight?

For sure. I’ve got a solid mix of formal education, certifications, and real-world experience. I’m a proud Purdue alum, and I’ve continued to invest in my growth with high-level training. I’m certified in U.S. Policy from Harvard, and I’m currently enrolled in their religious studies program to deepen my understanding of faith, justice, and how spirituality connects to movement work.

I also hold certifications in digital strategy, data management, and grassroots organizing from NationBuilder, Arena Academy, and Wellstone. My learning isn’t just academic—it’s lived, tested, and rooted in community. That balance of book smarts, spiritual grounding, and street smarts is what makes my work strategic and soulful.

Do you have any personal passions or causes you support that align with your work here?

Definitely. My personal passions are deeply tied to the work I do every day. I’m all about advancing racial and gender justice, uplifting Black and Brown communities, and fighting for systems that actually work for us—not against us. That’s why I lead organizations like Notorious Nasty Womxn and 3WF Third Wave Feminism—we center the voices of BIPOC women and push back hard against oppression in all forms.

I’m also passionate about youth empowerment, economic justice, and making sure our elders and faith communities are respected and included in movement work. Whether it’s organizing around voter rights, supporting down-ballot Black women candidates, or pushing policy that creates real equity, my personal passions and my professional work are one and the same. I don’t just believe in the cause—I live it.

Can you share a fun fact or surprising detail about yourself?

At one point, I was one of the best female goalies in the nation. I play amateur professional soccer and was even asked to join the pro circuit several times.

Do you have a favorite quote, motto, or saying that reflects your outlook or approach to life?

“Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.”

“Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”

“WHEN THEY SHOW YOU WHO THEY ARE… BELIEVE THEM!”

Is there anything else you’d like people to know about you or your work?

I want people to know that I’m all in for the long haul. This work isn’t a side hustle for me—it’s my life’s mission. I’ve dedicated myself to creating spaces where our voices are amplified, our rights are fought for, and our people are empowered to lead.

Whether I’m organizing, training, or advocating, I’m committed to moving the needle on the issues that matter most to our communities. One thing that drives me is the belief that change happens when we show up together—and when we do, we make it impossible to ignore our needs and our power.

So, if you’re with me, you’re part of something bigger than just a campaign or an organization—you’re part of a movement. And I’m here for it, every step of the way.