Jess Malandro

Manager for Student Programs & Operations

Jess Malandro serves as the Manager for Student Programs & Operations at the Big Idea Center, Pitt’s hub for student innovation and entrepreneurship, creating experiential learning opportunities for students with the express goal of fostering innovation-driven mindsets and entrepreneurial skills within the community.

She oversees daily operations and organizational efforts at the Big Idea Center for professional staff, the new center space in the Loeffler Building, as well as all student programming opportunities offered through the center. Additionally, Jess acts as the lead administrative staff for the creation, planning, and execution of signature Big Idea Center offerings including the Big Idea Competition and Kuzneski Innovation Cup, among others. Her special interests include photography and digital media, which have been utilized as part of Big Idea Center programs, educational seminars, departmental partnerships, and more.