About the Entrepreneur in Residence
The Entrepreneur in Residence provides the support, guidance and resources to help students develop new entrepreneurial opportunities.
They also assist in the creation of programming for students and the broader community to share real-world expertise.
Rhonda Humphrey-Jenkins
Rhonda Humphrey-Jenkins is Elmhurst University’s Entrepreneur in Residence. Rhonda brings more than 25 years of business world experience to the role.
Rhonda holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Roosevelt University and began her career working as an Account/Project Manager for the iconic Leo Burnett Advertising Agency, the company that created some of the most beloved brand characters such as, Tony the Tiger (Kellogg’s cereal), Pillsbury Dough Boy and Jolly Green Giant.
After working at Leo Burnett for 13 years with world class clients and creative teams, Rhonda wanted to tap into her own creativity and pursued her entrepreneurial vision by launching her own Day Spa. A space targeted towards the tween girl and focused on creating a wellness destination and personalized experiences. After a 9-month build out, Rhonda was able to transform an old dry cleaner into a girly teen dream.
Rhonda later expanded into global marketing working at PepsiCo, leading innovation initiatives for the Quaker Oats portfolio, identifying consumer insights, developing growth strategies, and helping bring new products to the marketplace.
With a career spanning global brands, innovation leadership, and entrepreneurship, Rhonda brings a passion for creating meaningful consumer experiences and transforming ideas into successful businesses. As both a corporate innovator and business owner, Rhonda thrives at the intersection of creativity, consumer understanding, and business growth.
Rhonda believes in Steve Jobs’ philosophy that “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” His belief that “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower” has been a guiding principle throughout her career, from developing consumer-focused innovations at PepsiCo to building a wellness business from the ground up.
Today, Rhonda continues to leverage her expertise in brand strategy, innovation, and entrepreneurship to create experiences that delight customers, inspire teams, and drive meaningful growth; and she is thrilled to be here at Elmhurst University and looking forward to meeting and connecting with the students this year.