Jennifer Simon became the Executive Director of Regional Innovation at Ohio University (OHIO) in 2016 to build the LIGHTS Regional Innovation Network. Ms. Simon manages a network of ten place-based makerspaces and incubators in a three-state region. Previously, she directed OHIO’s Innovation Center providing a supportive environment where entrepreneurs flourish. Based on clients’ success, the Center was recently recognized as the 3rd Top University-Based Incubator in the United States and 8th in North America. Successful companies graduated and created jobs in the community. Simon raised more than $3 million. Before coming to Ohio University, Simon served as President of the Athens County Economic Development Council and CEO of the Athens Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, as Assistant Director of the Governor’s Office of Appalachia, Ms. Simon managed $65 million in state and federal funds benefiting the Appalachian region of Ohio.