Local Talent Development Leader Jennifer Klempnow Honored by Michigan Works! Association

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (Sep 10, 2019) – Jennifer Klempnow of Michigan Works! Southwest was awarded Michigan’s “Shining Star” Award today during the Michigan Works! Association’s Annual Conference in Kalamazoo. The award, given by the Association, is in recognition of Klempnow’s efforts to meet employment needs in Branch, Calhoun, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties. where she serves as a business services representative for Michigan Works! Southwest.

“Whether it’s through an increase in relationships with employers, effective job placements, recruitment for local events, or an increase in the overall presence of employers at local service centers, Jennifer’s contribution to the Michigan Works! network is valued by all partners,” said Luann Dunsford, Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “She has proven to be an effective resource in bridging the gap between job seekers and local employers, making her a perfect choice for this award.”

As a business services representative for Michigan Works! Southwest, Klempnow works tirelessly to ensure she is providing the best customer service to not only employers, but also every job seeker she encounters.

“Jennifer’s vast experience and commitment to addressing the talent needs of employers has resulted in outstanding feedback and effective connections between local job seekers and employers,” said Ben Damerow, Director of Michigan Works! Southwest. “Whether it’s designing innovative workshops to inform jobseekers on employment-related topics, working with employers to deliberately fill their talent-gaps, or working with the Southwest Michigan Veteran Community Action Team where she has been recognized throughout the State as a key partner in assisting Veterans obtain good-paying, long-term job; Jennifer consistently demonstrates her commitment to enhancing the local prosperity of Southwest Michigan,” Klempnow said she is honored to receive this award.

“It has truly been an honor to receive the “Shining Star” award. Serving local employers, job seekers and Veterans have been a great privilege and I consider myself lucky to have built so many strong relationships and to have played a role in bettering the lives of those who live and work in Southwest Michigan. “Klempnow said.