Rising Star: Jacquelyn Casinger on Supporting Operations, Building Connections, and Driving Impact at Kuraray America

Some rising stars don’t work in the spotlight. Some make their biggest impact behind the scenes, helping everything else fall into place. As part of our Centennial Series, we are highlighting #RisingStar Jacquelyn Casinger, Senior Administrative Coordinator at Kuraray America, Inc.'s EVAL facility.

“Imagine filling a jar with rocks, then pouring sand in to help fill the gaps where needed, that's how I see my role,” she says.

It is a fitting way to describe someone whose work supports the people, processes, and critical day to day activities that keep our operations moving forward.

Jacquelyn did not originally plan on a career in specialty chemicals, but a colleague’s positive view of Kuraray America sparked her interest in the company. Seven years later, she is still energized by the variety of her role and the culture that surrounds it.

Filling Every Gap 
No two days look the same for Jacquelyn. From invoice processing, vendor coordination, and purchase requisitions to team lunches, teambuilding events, and milestone celebrations, she helps keep daily operations running smoothly while adding a creative touch to events and shared spaces. At Kuraray America, that level of initiative is met with trust, something she has built over seven years of reliable execution.

Building Connection and Community
Jacquelyn’s impact also extends into employee engagement across the EVAL site. She assists with organizing team outings and has been actively involved with the KAI Events Committee for three years, helping support company-wide events and volunteer initiatives, including opportunities with the Houston Food Bank. She also supports site presence at community events hosted by the Health and Safety Council® (HASC), Industry Business Roundtable (IBR), and the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region. Departments often collaborate with her to work through processes, relying on her to help problem‑solve and align people and resources. Those connections have followed her beyond work, too. "My oral surgeon recognized my badge and mentioned that he uses one of our products in his practice. You don't expect to make that connection in a dentist's chair," she says.

Growing Beyond the Title
Jacquelyn’s curiosity continues to shape her growth. Jacquelyn recently completed the company’s DX Bronze program and has completed Power BI courses to continue building her skills, reflecting a mindset grounded in learning and continuous growth.

Seven years in, Jacquelyn continues to find meaning in supporting others, building connections, and helping create the kind of culture that keeps Kuraray America moving forward.

Apr. 20, 2026