CPS Celebrates Treasurer Jennifer Wagner’s Retirement After 32 Years of Service

Cincinnati Public Schools is honoring Treasurer Jennifer Wagner as she retires September 1, 2025, after more than 30 years of dedicated service and a decade as the District’s Chief Financial Officer.

Wagner’s leadership has left an indelible mark on CPS, guiding the District through changing financial landscapes while ensuring stability and accountability. Under her tenure, CPS consistently outperformed budget expectations, maintained strong bond credit ratings and launched innovative initiatives like the “Just Ask Jen” Financial Town Hall series, which invited the community into open conversations about District finances.

“Jennifer Wagner’s service represents the very best of CPS,” said Superintendent Shauna Murphy. “Her expertise, integrity and commitment to fiscal responsibility have kept our District strong, and her impact will continue to benefit students and families for years to come.”

Wagner began her career with CPS more than three decades ago as Director of Total Quality Management, steadily rising through the ranks and roles in Information Technology, Operations and the Treasurer’s Office. She served each role with a reputation for transparency, thoughtful planning and a steady hand in times of challenge. As Chief Financial Officer, she partnered closely with the Board of Education, District leaders and the community to prioritize resources that support CPS students.

“Treasurer Wagner’s leadership ensured that taxpayer resources were invested wisely and strategically to serve children across Cincinnati,” said Board President Dr. Kareem Moncree-Moffett. “Her legacy is one of stability, stewardship and service to the mission of public education.”

Though she is retiring from her role, Wagner’s influence will live on through the systems she strengthened, the leaders she mentored and the trust she built with the CPS community. Her successor, Michael Gustin, who has served as assistant treasurer/controller under Treasurer Wagner, will continue this tradition of financial stewardship when he assumes the role in September.
 

“It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve Cincinnati Public Schools. I am proud of what we have accomplished together to support students, staff and our community,” Treasurer Wagner said. “Through our work, we created a culture of caring partnerships, a commitment to financial excellence, continuous process improvement, data-driven decision making with an emphasis on a positive return on investment and transparency and engagement. I look forward to seeing CPS continue to thrive as the District approaches its Bicentennial.”

Cincinnati Public Schools extends its deepest appreciation to Treasurer Wagner for her decades of service and leadership. Her steady commitment to students and families will remain a lasting part of the District’s story.