News: IMES community profile: Jenna Palmer

Jenna Palmer, the IMES HR Coordinator, has an MBA with a concentration in human resources from the University of Rhode Island.

 Mindy Blodgett | IMES

Jenna Palmer, who has been at IMES since November 2024, does many things to support the IMES community, including helping with new hires, onboarding, and appointment transactions for employees and visiting students. Read on to learn more about Jenna.

What did you do before coming here?
Before joining IMES, I worked for the Rhode Island-based jewelry retailer Ross-Simons, where I supported a corporate office, distribution center and call center as an HR Generalist. 

Can you tell us more about your job in HR? 

In my role in HR, I support preparation of appointment transactions for employees and visiting students, recruitment processes, new hire orientation and onboarding logistics, weekly payroll and interpretation of HR policies and procedures. My original career goal was non-profit management and mission- driven work. Through internships, I found myself drawn to the people side of the organization, which naturally shifted my focus towards HR.

What is the most fun, rewarding part of your job?

What I find most rewarding is having the ability to influence the employee experience in a positive, meaningful way.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My perfect day is a summer day by the pool at my family’s home. It’s usually an extended family affair, where everyone brings a pizza or calzone because growing up Italian, food is non-negotiable. It’s a nostalgic place, knowing what it meant to me growing up as a gathering spot and seeing it continue to have meaning as new generations are added. Days here mean you’re never too old for a diving board contest, and the day always ends with a Luigi’s Italian ice.

What is the most fun vacation you’ve ever had? 

During the summer of 2024 I took a two-week trip to Europe, planned around attending the UEFA European Football Championship. I saw Netherlands vs. Romania in a round of 16 game in Munich, Germany. From there, I went to Bari, Italy, and then Dubrovnik, Croatia. Bari and Dubrovnik provided the perfect mix of charming old towns and picturesque beaches. I hope to get a dog soon, and name her Bari, if that gives you an idea of what this trip meant to me! 

What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy cooking my way through the New York Times cooking app, baking with my sourdough starter, golfing, and attending live sporting events. I hope to add sewing to the list in the coming year.