Jessica serves as Senior Program Manager within the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. She is a native of Detroit, Michigan and holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Ferris State University and Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School. Her expertise lies in Black Church studies, a religious movement born out of persistent “othering” within white spaces.

Jessica’s work endeavors to create the mental and environmental conditions for people to be fully seen, loudly heard, and thrive personally and professionally. In her teaching role over the past decade, she has both challenged and empowered faith leaders and religious communities alike through the de-colonization of sacred text and praxis, and by centering marginalized voices in shaping theological understanding.

In her current role, Jessica provides expert and strategic diversity and inclusion direction, coaching, and counsel to departments across the VUMC organization and greater community. Through collaborative efforts, she creates, builds, implements, and assesses DEI initiatives and programs in service of cultivating inclusive and equitable work environments and experiences specific to our outstanding VUMC staff members. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys hosting family and friends, thought-provoking conversations, traveling, and creating memories with her loving husband and adventurous son.

In This Episode

• Jessica’s website
• Jessica's email

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