Jezree J. Friend

Jezree J. Friend serves as an Adjunct Professor at Gannon University, teaching graduate courses in Nonprofit Management and Leadership (GMPA 594) and The Public Policy Cycle (GMPA 630). Concurrently, he holds a full-time position as Assistant Vice President of External Relations for the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) of Pennsylvania, where he manages government affairs, political action committees, and lobbies for pro-business policies at state and federal levels.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Edinboro University
• Master of Public Administration, Gannon University

Professional Expertise

His career bridges public administration, policy formulation, and political strategy. With extensive experience in government relations, he moderates televised political forums, testifies before legislative bodies, and facilitates discussions with cabinet-level officials. His work emphasizes practical application of policy cycles and nonprofit leadership within Pennsylvania's political landscape.

Awards

• Pennsylvania’s Forty Under 40 (City & State)

Professional Contributions

Mr. Friend's political commentary reaches national audiences through The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, BBC, and ABC Australia. He managed a high-profile Erie mayoral campaign that defied 3:1 voter odds, securing 47% support and national media coverage. As a U.S. Army veteran, he integrates military leadership principles into public service.

Community Engagement

He serves on Erie First Christian Academy's school board and holds leadership roles at NB Church in Fairview, Pa. Residing in Millcreek with his family, he balances academic instruction with hands-on policy advocacy.