Jeanne began her career in education and policy on Capitol Hill before serving from 1983 to 1987 as a senior official at the U.S. Department of Education under President Ronald Reagan. She went on to establish the first education policy office at The Heritage Foundation, helping shape the national conversation on education reform. Throughout her career, she has advised and collaborated with education entrepreneurs and Silicon Valley innovators, championing the use of technology to expand access, personalize learning, and scale high-quality educational opportunities. These early experiences laid the foundation for her leadership at the Center for Education Reform and the Yass Prize, where she continues to drive bold, innovative change on behalf of students and families nationwide.

She holds a bachelor’s degree from Dickinson College and a master’s degree in Education Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania, where she helped develop the program. She has also served in advisory roles with the StartED Accelerator and the ASU+GSV Summit, and currently sits on the advisory board of the University of Austin’s Center for Education and Public Service.

Jeanne is married to Dr. Kevin Strother, a classically trained musician, teacher, and charter boat captain. Together, they enjoy time with their family—where education is always at the center of the conversation.