Program Manager, Cougar Cupboard
jthaney2@cougarnet.uh.edu

Jessica serves as Program Manager II for the Cougar Cupboard, the University of Houston’s official food pantry. In her role, she oversees the daily operations of the pantry, manages inventory and sourcing, and conducts communications with the Houston Food Bank and stakeholders. She also facilitates partnerships with both on-campus and off-campus resources, plans nutritional workshops and events, and reports on usage data from the Cougar Cupboard.

Jessica values serving students in an accessible and dignified way that reduces the stigma associated with food insecurity. She loves getting to know the wonderful volunteers and team members that she works with. Jessica began working at the Cougar Cupboard when it first opened in January 2020, and is proud to oversee its growth and serve as program manager.

She received her Bachelor of Arts in Applied Linguistics from the University of Houston in 2021. Jessica is from Houston and enjoys video games, trying new food, and spending time with friends. She is a big fan of koalas.

"As someone who experienced food insecurity as a student, I am grateful to be able to advocate for those in similar situations. Every person has a right to consistent, healthy food, regardless of their circumstance. It does not just change a person's present, but also feeds their future. I value that I am able to work with a team dedicated to helping our UH community, and I enjoy getting to know everyone who comes along, be they a student, volunteer, or community member. Thank you to everyone who supports the Cougar Cupboard and the Center for Student Advocacy and Community."