Fueling the Future: Talent as an Economic Engine sponsored by The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia

Dr. Jennifer Johnson Kebea is a civic and economic development leader redefining how regions compete for Generation Z talent. With more than 20 years in higher education leadership, she brings deep experience at the intersection of students, institutions, and community impact. As President of Campus Philly, she leads nationally recognized efforts that have helped transform Greater Philadelphia from “brain drain” to “brain magnet,” retaining more than half of its college graduates. A former Campus Philly intern, she now champions bold, cross-sector strategies that align higher education, employers, and government to fuel inclusive economic growth and ensure emerging talent builds their future in the region.

Nikki Pumphrey is a workforce and economic development leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing inclusive growth through employer-led systems that strengthen regional competitiveness. Her work is grounded in the conviction that economic growth must translate into real opportunity for workers and employers alike.

She currently serves as Vice President of Talent and Workforce at the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, where she works to strengthen regional competitiveness by shaping how employers hire, advance, and invest in talent, with a focus on expanding inclusive pathways to economic mobility. 

With more than 15 years at the intersection of innovation and economic development, Kristen has led high-impact initiatives and campaigns that strengthen startup and innovation ecosystems across sectors and regions. She has directed brand and content strategy, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector partnerships to launch and scale mission-driven programs—from founder growth initiatives and capital incentives to expanding access to STEM career pathways. Kristen is known for translating complex ideas into actionable strategies and compelling narratives that mobilize founders, funders, corporations, and public-sector leaders to drive sustained, ecosystem-level impact.