I AM BLACK HISTORY | Dr. Gena Jerkins

Dr. Gena Jerkins

Dr. Gena L. Jerkins is Black History because her life’s work proves that leadership and wellness are not separate pursuits. They are inseparable. She has dedicated her career to ensuring that those who carry great responsibility do not lose themselves in the process of serving others.

From being labeled “at risk” in third grade to becoming a licensed therapist, executive strategist, and visionary founder, Dr. Gena’s journey is a testament to resilience, faith, scholarship, and purpose. She is a lifelong educator, humanitarian, and empowerment enthusiast who has spent more than 25 years serving across public education, higher education, philanthropy, business, and faith based sectors.

Dr. Gena is the Founder and CEO of The /SEN(T)R/, a Houston based leadership wellness firm certified as an MBE, WBE, SBE, and HUB entity by the City of Houston. Through The /SEN(T)R/, she curates intentional spaces where leadership and wellness converge. Her mission is clear. She empowers high impact leaders in demand driven roles to align their values, optimize performance, and thrive personally and professionally. Her work transforms pressure into purposeful, sustainable leadership.

At the core of her philosophy is a powerful belief. When leaders are well, the systems, teams, and communities they influence thrive as well. When leaders are neglected, the systems they oversee begin to fracture. Leadership wellness is not a luxury. It is a strategic imperative. Through customized programs, executive coaching, and evidence based strategies, Dr. Gena helps leaders cultivate clarity, strengthen collaborative culture, and sustain meaningful transformation.

Her academic preparation reflects the depth of her calling. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University, a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Houston, a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Houston, and a Master of Christian Leadership from Dallas Theological Seminary. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her scholarship and professional certifications equip her to bridge therapy, strategy, and organizational leadership in a way few can.

In addition to leading The /SEN(T)R/, Dr. Gena serves as Executive Director of the Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity. In this role, she advances initiatives that address historic inequities and expand access to opportunity across Houston. She has also served as teacher, assistant principal, principal, adjunct professor, nonprofit consultant, and executive coach. Across every space, her signature remains the same. She adds value to humanity one tangible, actionable step at a time.

Dr. Gena is also the author of Silencing The Silence, a work that challenges individuals to confront and quiet the negative internal narratives that limit growth. Her voice as a speaker, facilitator, and strategist continues to inspire leaders to explore the breadth of their inner greatness without predetermined limitations.

Dr. Gena L. Jerkins is Black History because she redefines what strength looks like. She shows that healing is leadership. That clarity is power. That wholeness fuels impact. She is building healthier leaders, stronger organizations, and more resilient communities across Houston and beyond.

Black History is not only about overcoming barriers. It is about building better systems. It is about leading with integrity, faith, and wholeness.

And Dr. Gena L. Jerkins is doing exactly that.