Jennifer Hooper

Jennifer Hooper brings over a decade of dedicated experience in the anti-trafficking field to her role in the Virginia Coalition Against Human Trafficking. As both a professional and a survivor leader, Jennifer offers a unique perspective that combines lived experience with extensive expertise.

Jennifer previously served as a senior analyst for the Ghost Orchid Coalition and as a human trafficking investigator and open-source intelligence analyst for the National Human Trafficking Intelligence Center. Her legal advocacy work with the University of Baltimore’s Human Trafficking Prevention Project provided crucial support to survivors seeking criminal record relief under Maryland’s Vacatur and Expungement laws.

As the founder and CEO of Thrive in Recovery, Jennifer has created pathways for survivors and those struggling with substance abuse to receive individualized treatment and build new foundations for their lives. Prior to her anti-trafficking work, Jennifer spent nearly 15 years in the fitness and wellness industry as a master personal trainer and certified wellness coach.

Jennifer’s impressive credentials include board certifications in human trafficking investigation and open-source intelligence analysis. She is also a certified social emotional learning educator, trauma-informed yoga instructor, master certified life coach, certified wellness coach, and peer recovery specialist. As a lived experience expert, Jennifer brings invaluable insight to her advocacy work.

With VCAHT, Jennifer aims to expand access to expungement and vacatur under Virginia’s laws, removing the criminal records that often hinder survivors’ paths to true freedom. She is passionate about shifting the movement’s focus toward supporting survivors in building fulfilling lives, rather than expecting gratitude merely for safety.
When not advocating for survivors, Jennifer practices effective altruism, practices self-care with art and building with her hands, brushes up on her skills as a former athlete and competitive fighter, and celebrates her role as a single mother to her resilient young daughter.