My Story
A Black, Caribbean American woman, a wife, an educator, a daughter, a sister, a niece, an aunt, a cousin, and a friend.
Kenesma D. John, Ph.D. was born in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas USVI, descended from a Lucian mother and an Anguillian father. She was raised in Houston, Texas, and has always wanted to be a teacher since the age of 6. Her grandfather, Vivien A. Vanterpool was a teacher as well, so it is in her blood.
Kenesma earned a Ph.D.. in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Florida and a certificate in Women and Gender Studies. She is an experienced teacher with a demonstrated history of working in the primary education industry. Her research agenda is centered on Black Immigrants, Black Girlhood, and Black Education.
Kenesma’s work can be found on Google Scholar and in the online women's magazine Focus on Her which is “designed to inspire and empower women and girls to focus on the fundamental aspects of life and become the best versions of themselves.” ​
Kenesma D. John, Ph.D.
Underground Railroad Project Coordinator
African American Studies Department
University of Florida
Email:
Publications
Browse my academic work dedicated to amplifying voices and experiences that matter.
Troutman, A., Brown, T. T., De La Cruz, S., Oladejo, O. A., & John, K. D. (2026). Radical reimaginings: Black girlhood, feminist praxis, and arts-based inquiry in a university–school collaboration[Special issue]. Frontiers.
This paper examines how culturally affirming literature can support Black students’ academic engagement in schools shaped by dominant Eurocentric narratives. It argues that centering Black literary traditions, creates opportunities for affirmation while disrupting deficit-based views of Black students.
This video highlights how they define themselves, build community, and explore identity, mental health, and liberation through storytelling and creative expression. It reframes feminist research by positioning the girls as co-researchers and cultural producers, resisting deficit narratives and centering their lived experiences and visions for the future.
This qualitative case study delved into the realm of hair identity, focusing on Black girls. The study aimed to unravel the complexities surrounding hair identity, highlighting how it impacts these individuals’ educational experiences and self-esteem of these individuals.
This study delves into the intricate relationship between the symbolic representation of skin color in virtual avatars and its profound impact on people's self-value within American society.