Jenese Brownhill, LICSW is Senior Director of Human Resources at Justice Resource Institute (JRI) and has more than 18 years of leadership experience across human services, behavioral health, workforce development, and juvenile justice systems.

Jenese began her career as a District-Based Clinical Social Worker in Boston's Area B-2 police district, providing mental health services to youth and families involved with the juvenile justice system. Throughout her career, she has worked to improve outcomes for young people and families by strengthening access to services, supporting community-based interventions, and advocating for equitable policies and practices.

Prior to her current role, Jenese led JRI's Juvenile Justice Division, overseeing programs serving youth and families impacted by trauma, community violence, and system involvement. She remains actively engaged in juvenile justice advocacy as a Board Member of Citizens for Juvenile Justice and as a Social Work Expert with the Committee for Public Counsel Services. She has also advocated for policy reforms, including Massachusetts' "Raise the Age" legislation.

In addition to her professional leadership, Jenese serves on a community advisory board focused on advancing mental wellness and improving access to high-quality behavioral health services for children and families, particularly Black and Latinx communities.

A native of Jamaica, Jenese earned her Master's Degree in Social Work from Boston College and holds certificates in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice at Tufts University and in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership from LeadBoston. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to equity, and ability to build partnerships that drive meaningful change in organizations and communities.