Jennifer D. McClain
Jennifer D. McClain is a seasoned leader, coach, and strategist dedicated to empowering nonprofit professionals and organizations to operate at their fullest potential. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she has successfully developed and scaled innovative economic opportunity initiatives, coached individuals to achieve personal and professional goals, and designed engaging training programs for diverse audiences. As Senior Director of Program at the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Jennifer has consistently advanced community-based economic equity initiatives while building high-performing teams and improving program effectiveness through data-driven strategies. In 2022, Jennifer founded Mission ENSPIRE, LLC, a coaching and consulting business that helps women, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations discover their purpose and flourish in their personal and professional lives. She is highly trained in multiple coaching disciplines, including financial, career, supervisory, and leadership coaching, and is also a facilitator for #IamRemarkable, an initiative that empowers underrepresented groups to speak confidently about their accomplishments. Jennifer’s work reflects a lifelong commitment to learning, professional development, and creating environments where people feel inspired, supported, and capable of achieving their goals. Jennifer holds a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University and a Certificate of Professional Achievement in Nonprofit Management from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. She has been recognized as a notable leader in community development by Chicago Cranes Business and is an alumna of The Aspen Institute’s Chicagoland Workforce Leadership Academy. Through her work, she continues to guide individuals and organizations toward meaningful impact, demonstrating the power of purpose-driven leadership and transformative coaching.
• Certified Professional Coach
• Black Woman Leading™
• The Allstate Foundation Executive Leadership Program
• Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University - MPA
• Dillard University - BS
• Keller Graduate School of Management of Devry University - MBA
• Northwestern University - Kellog School of Management: Executive Scholar Program - NonProfit Management
• Black Women's Professional League
• Aspen Institute's Economic Opportunity Fellows Network
• Piney Woods School
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong educational foundation and a commitment to continuous learning. I hold both an MBA and an MPA from Keller Graduate School of Management, have earned a Non-Executive Scholar Certificate from Northwestern, and have participated in three intensive leadership development programs. I am also a certified professional coach, which has allowed me to support and empower others in their growth journeys. Beyond my professional credentials, I actively engage in organizations that align with my values and mission. I am a proud member of the Black Women's Professional League and the Aspen Institute’s Economic Opportunity Fellows Network. Additionally, I contribute to initiatives wat The Piney Woods School, a historically Black boarding school, where I strive to make a meaningful impact in my community. These experiences, both academic and professional, have shaped my leadership approach and fueled my passion for creating opportunities, fostering development, and supporting others in achieving their fullest potential.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
For young women entering the coaching industry, my advice is to be intentional about your growth and learning. I recommend finding a mentor who truly "walks the walk"—someone whose experience and approach you respect and can learn from. I also suggest reading insightful resources, such as Co-Active Coaching, to broaden your perspective and deepen your understanding of effective coaching practices. Additionally, take the time to thoroughly research training programs to ensure you select one that aligns with your goals, values, and learning style.
Locations
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
Chicago, IL 60606