jonelle henry

For more than 20 years, I’ve dedicated my career to shaping powerful narratives at the intersection of media and politics. My journey began in the late-Senator Bob Graham’s office and led to my role as Senior Producer at C-SPAN during the Bush and Obama administrations, where I produced White House coverage and international events.

I’m proud to serve as the inaugural Director of UF’s CJCxDC program, creating transformative opportunities for journalists and communicators in Washington. My approach connects students with DC’s dynamic landscape across politics, advocacy, media, and global affairs, equipping them with both technical skills and purpose in their communications path.

I love all the hats I wear: journalist, educator, entrepreneur, advocate, and mentor. My mission in life is to embrace all my passions and let no talent go unwasted. My ministry is connection and collaboration.

As a multi-passionate entrepreneur, I’ve built Districtly Speaking, an innovative platform for emerging journalists to engage with critical social conversations. I’ve been nicknamed the “Conversation Starter” because I believe that changing the world begins with dialogue and that every voice should be heard. My travel company, CultureLuxe by Jonelle (formerly DS Traveler), reflects my passion for bringing people together through cultural immersion, offering luxury experiences and immersive tours.

My versatility creates unique value in every space I enter. In newsrooms, I bring editorial judgment and media production expertise. In classrooms, I infuse real-world journalism experiences as an adjunct professor at The Washington Center, teaching American Politics and Mass Media. In boardrooms, I offer creative vision and relationship skills that drive ventures forward.

My educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Telecommunication (Broadcasting) from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in Communication from Johns Hopkins University, where I focused on race, media, and politics. I was also a Congressional fellow for the National Press Foundation.

Beyond media, my advocacy extends to various organizations. I’m actively engaged in the White Dress Project (a fibroid awareness and patient advocacy organization), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and have served on boards including the Alliance for Women in Media, the DC Gator Alumni Club, and the DC Black Film Festival. My community service includes being a Girl Scout troop leader in Southeast DC and a reading mentor for the Everybody Wins program.

My dedication has earned recognition including the 2024 DC Hope Award and Pearl Essence Distinguished Service Award.

It took years for me to stop compartmentalizing my gifts and talents and to finally embrace my multi-passionate spirit. Once I realized that my passions were all aligned for one purpose, I decided to stop doubting and start producing. I wasn’t confused. I was convinced. This rare combination of skills and interests allows me to create connections that span industries and amplify important voices.