The communities of Yakima and Central Washington University will celebrate Black History Month by welcoming Jennifer King, the first African-American woman to coach in the National Football League (NFL).  Coach King will be present at two evening events that are free and open to the public.

On the evening of Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Coach King will present at a free dinner, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm, at the Henry Beauchamp Community Center located at 1211 S. 7th Street, Yakima, WA  98901.

On the evening of Thursday, February 5, 2026, Coach King will present at an event for Central Washington University that will begin at 6:30 pm at the Student Union and Recreation Center Ballroom at 400 E. University Way, Ellensburg, WA  98926.

Both events are free and open to the public.

Jennifer King

Born on August 5, 1983, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jennifer King played both basketball and football growing up, which laid the foundation for her career in coaching. King played quarterback at Guilford College before transitioning into coaching, starting her career in the semi-professional leagues and then coaching at the collegiate level.

In 2019, King joined the Carolina Panthers as a coaching intern.  In 2020, the Washington Commanders hired her as an assistant running backs coach.  Then, in 2024, she moved to the Chicago Bears where she continued as an assistant running backs coach.  She currently serves as a wide receivers coach for North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina.

King’s coaching journey is a testament to her resilience and passion for football. She has become an inspiration to many aspiring coaches, especially women, as she continues to make a positive impact on the sport.