Dr. Jennifer Hopwood

Author • TEDx Speaker • Educator • Learning Strategist

Dr. Jennifer Hopwood is an author, TEDx speaker, educator, and learning strategist whose work explores the intersection of creativity, neuroscience, communication, systems thinking, and well-being. As Learning & Development Facilitator for the Southern Maryland Regional Library Association (SMRLA), she designs professional learning experiences and statewide training initiatives supporting library staff across Maryland. Jennifer also teaches graduate-level courses for the San José State University School of Information and speaks nationally on creativity, psychological safety, customer service, leadership, and human-centered communication.

Jennifer holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management from Drexel University, a Master of Science in Library and Information Studies from Florida State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Education from Monmouth University. Through her creative platform, Not Quite Superhuman, she explores the intersection of creativity, neuroscience, communication, and well-being, with a focus on how everyday practices shape resilience, learning, and human connection.

Jennifer develops and facilitates workshops, webinars, leadership programs, and conference sessions for regional and statewide audiences. Her work has included TEDx speaking, statewide webinar initiatives, graduate instruction, conference presentations, and professional learning programs focused on neuroscience-informed communication, creativity, systems thinking, and workplace culture. Through her training and educational work, she regularly supports learning experiences reaching hundreds of staff members across Southern Maryland and contributes to broader statewide professional development efforts serving Maryland libraries.

Featured Topics & Expertise

• Creativity & Well-Being
• NeuroMagic of Customer Service
• Psychological Safety & Communication
• Systems Thinking & Organizational Change
• Storytelling & Narrative Intelligence
• Learning Design & Professional Development
• Informal Learning & Lifelong Education

Publications

Books:

  • Systems Thinking in Libraries: Leading Through Disruption with Insight and Impact, Bloomsbury Libraries Unlimited, 2027.
  • 30 days of Micro-Creativity: Simple Prompts to Spark Joy, Reduce Stress, and Reignite Your Imagination, NQS Press, 2025
  • Best STEM Resources for Next Gen Scientists: The Essential Selection & User’s Guide, Bloomsbury Libraries Unlimited, 2015

Book Chapters:

  • “The Why, What, Who, When, and How of Library Community Partnerships”
    In Marketing Your Library: Tips and Tools That Work, McFarland, February 2012
  • “How NOT to Reinvent the STEM Wheel: Using Crowdsourcing and Community Partners”
    In How to STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Education in Libraries, Rowman & Littlefield, December 2013
  • “Tech Savvy Library Professionals: Competencies, Training, and Development for New Media Library Initiatives”
    In Young Children, New Media, and Libraries, Little eLit, 2015

Articles:

  • “Initiating STEM Learning in Libraries,” Children and Libraries, ALSC/ALA, Summer/Fall 2012
  • “Understanding the Importance of Creativity Towards Psychological Safety in the Library Workplace,” iSchool Student Research Journal, 2023
    Read the Article »

Dissertation:

  • Using Diffusion of Innovation Theory to Explore Factors Influencing Upper Leadership’s Role in Adopting Creativity and Innovation in the State of Maryland (SOM) Public Libraries, Drexel University, 2020
    View via ProQuest »

Presentations & Workshops

Jennifer is a dynamic presenter who speaks on topics ranging from everyday creativity to staff development and innovation in learning organizations.

Maryland Libraries Staff Development Webinar Series:

  • Page to Practice
  • Knowledge Builders
  • 23 Count Down

Selected Speaking Engagements:

  • Maryland State Library Resource Center’s Public Services Conference- NeuroMagic of Customer Service
  • TEDx Talk – A Lack of Psychological Safety Can Lead to Creativity Resistance
  • Masie Learning Conference – Developing Personal Learning Portfolios
  • Global STEMx Virtual Conference – Informal Learning through Youth Programs in Public Libraries
  • Flourishing Libraries: Thriving Together in Changing Times – Staff Development Workshop

Additional Topics Include:

  • Creativity for Personal and Professional Growth
  • Psychological Safety & Creativity Resistance
  • Systems Thinking in Informal Learning Organizations
  • Storytelling as a Tool for Change
  • Innovative Approaches to Staff Learning

Online Presence

Contact

Jennifer is available for podcast interviews, webinars, conference presentations, keynote talks, guest articles, and media conversations related to:

  • neuroscience and communication
  • creativity and well-being
  • psychological safety
  • systems thinking
  • learning and workplace culture
  • storytelling and narrative intelligence

For speaking engagements, interviews, or media inquiries:
Email: drjenhopwood@gmail.com