Jennifer Adams is a passionate and dedicated public servant who has devoted her career to enhancing the quality of life for Tempe residents. Originally from Nebraska, Jennifer moved to Arizona to further her education, earning a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University in 1989.
Inspired by her father, who served as a mayor, and her mother, a lifelong volunteer, Jennifer has always understood the profound impact that dedicated community service can have. She spent 29 years working for the City of Tempe, where she oversaw multi-million-dollar budgets, led large teams, and helped shape the city’s future through her work in Human Services, Public Works, and Internal Services. Jennifer's leadership in these areas earned her significant recognition, including her role as president of the Arizona chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA). She also pioneered initiatives as the founder of the national APWA Young Professionals Committee and served as chair of the APWA Diversity Committee.
Jennifer's commitment to public service led her to run for the Tempe City Council, where she won a seat in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022. She served as Vice Mayor from 2022 to 2024, guiding the city through critical decisions that are shaping Tempe's future. During her time on the council, Jennifer spearheaded key projects that benefit residents, such as securing the annexation and revitalization of north Tempe’s County Island, leading the construction of a new recreation center and pool at Clark Park, and successfully advocating for a major increase in Tempe’s pavement restoration program. These are just a few examples of Jennifer's commitment to ensuring Tempe remains a city that works for everyone.
A strong advocate for sustainability, Jennifer has pushed for retrofitting city buildings with eco-friendly upgrades, supported green building codes for new development, and worked to increase the city’s shade canopy—all initiatives that help protect the environment and improve Tempe's livability. Jennifer also serves on a variety of boards and committees at the local, state, and national levels as the Vice-Chair of the Valley Metro Board of Directors and on the Board of Directors of the YMCA, Tempe Tourism, and the National Democratic Municipal Officials Board.
Jennifer’s dedication to Tempe extends beyond her professional life. She is deeply involved in community organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, the Kiwanis Club of Tempe, and Tempe’s Litter and Graffiti Cleanup Programs. Her passion for service also led her to volunteer with groups such as the Assistance League of East Valley and to serve as the Neighborhood Watch Captain in her community.
Jennifer is proud to call Tempe home, where she lives with her family, their rescue animals, and their love for all that this city has to offer. Whether she's working in the community, serving on the council, or enjoying local Tempe restaurants and green spaces, Jennifer remains deeply committed to the well-being of all residents.