Jennifer Williams

Jennifer (Butler) Williams serves as the Manager of Learning Technology Services at Pennsylvania Western University, where she focuses on enhancing both classroom and online learning environments through innovative technology solutions. With 20 years of experience in higher education, Jennifer has built a career at the intersection of technology, curriculum development, faculty support, and academic leadership.

In her current role, Jennifer oversees the implementation and optimization of classroom AV systems, learning management system (LMS) support, and faculty development programs focused on instructional technology and emerging educational tools. She also provides strategic guidance on the safe and ethical integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into teaching and learning, ensuring PennWest faculty are equipped to leverage technology responsibly to enhance student engagement and success.

Jennifer’s professional expertise spans learning technology innovation, instructional design, online learning strategies, and responsible AI integration in education. She recently represented PennWest in the 2025 AI Security Challenge, where she worked alongside experts from across higher education to identify security vulnerabilities and ethical risks in emerging AI tools used in teaching and learning.

In addition to her work at PennWest, Jennifer serves on the Board of Directors for the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania, where she holds the position of Chair of the Program and Education Committee. In this role, she advises on the development of new educational programming and community outreach initiatives, supporting the Autism Society’s mission to promote acceptance and opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Jennifer holds a Master of Arts in Communication Studies and a Certificate in Conflict Management from PennWest University - Edinboro, a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychology from Northcentral University. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Psychology, with a focus on organizational behavior and the evolving role of technology including implementations of AI in learning and development.

Jennifer’s passion for supporting diverse learners and empowering educators is evident throughout her career - whether she is helping faculty embrace new technologies, developing training programs that promote inclusive teaching practices, or advocating for greater understanding of neurodiversity in education. She brings this holistic approach to every project she leads at PennWest and in her broader professional and community service roles.