Dr. Jennifer Cole is an experienced higher education practitioner specializing in intercollegiate athletics, student-athlete wellness, and academic affairs. Currently serving as the Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Affairs and Senior Woman Administrator at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Dr. Cole has over a decade of experience in athletics administration, compliance, and health care. She holds a Doctor of Education in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Her expertise includes athletic training, mental health first aid, and NCAA compliance. She is dedicated to student-athlete development and leadership, actively contributing to various committees and initiatives.

What do you love most about living and working in Huntsville?

Weather, low-traffic, and the hospitality. There are helpers everywhere if you’re looking.

What’s your best advice for starting a career in the Rocket City?

Just move here, there is something for everyone.

How do you like to give back to the community, and why is it important to you?

Volunteering at campus events. It’s important to me to have a positive impact on our student athletes so that when they move from UAH into our work force they know what it looks like to be a great teammate and a strong neighbor.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

Outside of work I like to spend time with my family at UAH Charger games, and strolling downtown and around Big Spring Park.

Do you have any hidden talents?

When I get some free time, I enjoy woodworking projects and home design on a budget.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career, and what valuable lesson did they teach you?

Lennie Acuff, Dr. Cade Smith, and Julie Woltjen have poured into me in different but powerful ways. Stay humble, be kind, and always keep learning.