Lieutenant Jennifer Thackston is a Paramedic-Firefighter and the Community Risk Reduction Officer for Clemson University Fire & EMS, where she also serves as Accreditation Manager. With over a decade in fire and emergency services, she specializes in data-informed risk reduction, strategic planning, and collaborative program development.
Jennifer plays a lead role in agency accreditation, performance evaluation, and long-range planning by advancing initiatives that align resources with risk and improve service outcomes. She has also championed the integration of tools such as AI-assisted documentation, GIS-based hazard analysis, and technology-supported decision-making processes.
Originally from Conway, South Carolina, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Emergency Management from Clemson University. Her graduate research focused on Mass Gathering Event Medicine and large-venue incident coordination.
Jennifer serves as the Chair of the South Carolina State Firefighters' Association Technology & Communications Committee. She is passionate about building resilient, forward-thinking fire service organizations through innovation, partnerships, and purposeful strategy.
Back to Leadership
Store