Jenna Ward Brennan, Esq., MBA
Jenna Ward Brennan, Esq., MBA, is an accomplished attorney and Assistant District Attorney serving outside Philadelphia, where she specializes in appellate law. In this role, she is responsible for preserving convictions through meticulous appellate briefing and persuasive oral argument at both the state and, when applicable, federal levels. Jenna’s legal work focuses on complex and impactful cases, including matters involving domestic abuse and family protection, allowing her to combine rigorous legal analysis with a commitment to justice. Her decision to transition to law followed a successful 20-plus year career in medical device leadership, marketing, and sales, where she held senior positions at top organizations including GE Healthcare and Siemens Healthcare. This extensive corporate experience equipped her with strategic, analytical, and leadership skills that she now applies to the courtroom and appellate practice. Jenna’s legal journey is marked by significant milestones that reflect both perseverance and purpose. During law school, she earned a Public Interest Certificate, a distinction that underscores her dedication to advocacy and public service, and successfully passed the bar—a milestone she regards as a defining professional achievement. These accomplishments, coupled with her career pivot, exemplify her philosophy of intentional reinvention and her belief in using one’s expertise to make a meaningful impact. Jenna’s professional focus is guided by core values of service, integrity, and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of using one’s voice to advance justice and empower others. Beyond her legal career, Jenna is deeply committed to community service and the advancement of women in law, business, and STEM fields. She actively volunteers with nonprofit organizations such as The Saturday Club, one of the nation’s oldest women’s clubs, which is dedicated to improving the lives of women, children, and families in the greater Philadelphia region. Known for her strategic thinking, resilience, and collaborative approach, Jenna brings insight, energy, and professionalism to every endeavor—whether presenting arguments in appellate courts, leading complex initiatives, mentoring others, or advocating for equity and inclusion. Her career reflects a rare combination of corporate acumen, legal expertise, and an unwavering commitment to making a tangible difference in her community.
• Pennsylvania Bar Admission
• New Jersey Bar Admission
• Villanova University - BA, English
• Saint Joseph's University - Erivan K. Haub School of Business - MBA
• Widener University Schools of Law - JD
• ABA 2013 Bronze Stevie Award
• 2011 CardioVascular Advertising Gold & Silver Awards
• ANA Marketer of 2009 Finalist
• MM&M Awards 2009 Gold Award
• National District Attorneys Association
• Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association
• Pennsylvania Bar Association
• The Saturday Club
• Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General
• Office of the Public Defender Dauphin County
• Republican Committee of Chester County
• GE Healthcare - GE Girls
• Community Transformation Partners
What do you attribute your success to?
Jenna attributes her success to discipline, perseverance, and a willingness to reinvent herself. She credits her goal-oriented mindset, strong work ethic, and commitment to meaningful impact as key factors in navigating a significant career pivot later in life.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to follow work that aligns with both my values and my skills. My professional development has been shaped by experiences across the legal and corporate sectors, including internships with the Attorney General’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, and Community Transformation Partners. These opportunities reinforced my commitment to public-interest work and advocacy, and have guided me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful impact while continuing to grow professionally.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be shy about advocating for yourself and using your voice. Keep working at areas of weakness, stay goal-oriented, and outwork the competition.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now, the legal field presents challenges such as intense workloads, public scrutiny, and systemic barriers—challenges that can be especially pronounced for women. At the same time, I see significant opportunities in public-interest law, nonprofit advocacy, and leadership roles that allow attorneys to influence policy, protect communities, and support women and families on a larger scale. These opportunities make the field both demanding and deeply rewarding.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my work and personal life are service, integrity, accountability, and advocacy. I am driven by a desire to give back to my community, protect vulnerable populations, and use my skills to create meaningful, positive change.