Energy meets empathy — from the classroom to the community

Jessica Kruger brings energy, expertise and a True Blue heart to everything she does. As a clinical associate professor and director of teaching innovation and excellence for the School of Public Health and Health Professions, she’s passionate about creating real-world learning experiences that engage and inspire students.

Drawn to UB by the chance to help build its undergraduate public health program, Kruger quickly found her place in the people — the students, colleagues and Buffalo community she now proudly calls home. Known for putting people’s well-being first, she’s now a student favorite — with the ratings and reviews to back it up.

“As a first-generation college student, I know what it was like to work through my undergrad and even my PhD full time to try to make ends meet,” Kruger says. “I wouldn't be here today without mentors understanding the situation I was in. I want to continue that and ensure that students feel heard, respected and that someone cares about them.”

Beyond the classroom, Kruger is committed to advancing the community, partnering with neighborhoods like Seneca Babcock, and the Lighthouse Free Medical Clinic to improve health and access to care. Her research on consumption and addictive behaviors advances harm reduction and public health equity.

“What motivates me as a teacher is getting to prepare the next generation of public health professionals, especially in this unprecedented time in public health,” Kruger says. “We need leaders. We need people who understand the challenges and are willing to rise up.”