Jonelle Henry

Read Jonelle Henry’s hiring announcement.

What are you teaching this semester?

As part of the new CJCxDC program, I’m teaching an immersive course I designed called “Navigating the Media & Communications Landscape in DC”

What is your area of expertise?

News producing, political and public affairs communications, and the intersection of race, media, and politics.

What excites you most about coming to Gainesville?

While I’m technically based in DC, I’m thrilled to bring CJC students to Washington for an immersive semester in one of the country’s top media markets. The Gator Nation is everywhere, and we can’t wait to welcome you to the nation’s capital.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

Professionally, field producing Election Night 2008 coverage from Grant Park in Chicago stands out. Witnessing Barack Obama’s historic election was both a career and personal high. The ground shook when the race was called and I will never forget the reaction from the crowd. Made for great TV! I’m also super passionate about community building and advocacy outside of work. Receiving both the 2024 DC Mayor’s Award for my service and leadership and the Pearl Essence Award from my sorority, Delta Sigma Theta, in the same year was incredibly meaningful.

Your hero or biggest inspiration?

Oprah Winfrey! She’s built her name into both a business and household brand while remaining the go-to for newsmaker interviews. Her fundamental journalism skills have never wavered. She’s still the OG thought-leader and entrepreneur of her time. I also have to shout out my Jamaican parents, who created a fun, supportive home environment and were my first “fan club” as I pursued journalism and became interested in politics. 

What three things don’t we know about you?

• I’m terrified of bridges and avoid them whenever possible!
• I love cooking and really throw down in the kitchen.
• I’m obsessed with dysfunctional power family dramas—Greenleaf, Succession, The Crown, and most recently, The Gilded Age.