Jessica “Jessie” Herrmann is the new director of federal relations for the Office of Research and Economic Development, effective Jan. 4. The role is responsible for maintaining and building the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s relationship with Nebraska’s congressional delegation, congressional staff, federal funding agencies and government officials.

Herrmann’s position is housed in the Office of Research and Economic Development and will coordinate closely with the Office of the Chancellor. She also joins and will collaborate with the University of Nebraska’s federal relations team.

“Our partnerships with federal funding agencies and our relationships with our congressional delegation are essential to the research and creative activity we conduct,” said Bob Wilhelm, vice chancellor of research and economic development. “Jessica’s background will serve the university very well in furthering these critical, already strong relationships.”

Herrmann formerly served as director of legislative outreach and research for the Platte Institute and legislative assistant for Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). Most recently, she was vice president of legal and government affairs for the Nebraska Cattlemen.

Herrmann received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas and law degree from the Nebraska College of Law.

Among other duties, Herrmann will serve as the primary liaison between the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and congressional members and staff, as well as federal agencies on issues important to the university; communicate University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s position on federal and state issues of importance to policymakers; and promote University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s research growth and policy agenda with federal agencies and congressional members.