Dr. Jessica Henlon is a systems thinker, certified coach, and storytelling strategist whose career bridges education, civic engagement, and the creative arts. She holds a doctorate in Educational Psychology, where her dissertation examined how online first-generation college students build belonging through virtual engagement. She now applies those insights to the design of inclusive systems, programs, and events that foster connection and success across physical and digital spaces. Dr. Henlon also holds a master’s degree in Counseling with a specialization in School Counseling, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

Jessica holds multiple credentials that reflect her commitment to personal and professional growth, including certification as a behavioral coach through Behavioral Essentials and formal training through the SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) program. She completed the Harvard ManageMentor Leadership Development Program, a 10-month course developed by Harvard Business Publishing that equips professionals with critical leadership and management skills through research-based, interactive modules. Jessica is also a proud graduate of Leadership Winter Park (Class 34), a premier program of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce that prepares advanced-level leaders to address the region’s key issues through civic awareness and community engagement. Her earlier certifications include a Child Care Center Director’s Credential, further grounding her expertise in youth and family development. These layered experiences inform her coaching, consulting, and mentoring approach, helping individuals and organizations strengthen their culture, communication, and leadership capacity.

What does PEACE Mean to you? “Peace means knowing that your needs are met, you have value, and you belong…so much that you strive to share that feeling with others.” – Jessica Henlon.
Portrait feature from A Peace of My Mind Exhibit, by John Noltner, displayed at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando.

With deep roots in student development and a reputation for culturally responsive leadership, Jessica blends compliance expertise, crisis response strategy, and human-centered design. Her approach integrates data, strategy, and empathy to guide institutions and individuals through transformational growth.

In addition to her work with learning institutions and nonprofits, Jessica supports artists, entrepreneurs, and public leaders in amplifying their voices through branding, wellness-centered development, and purpose-driven production. She is a trusted collaborator for initiatives that require both structure and soul, from city-led cultural showcases to youth empowerment summits and scholarship programs.

Jessica’s impact reflects her core values: wellness, equity, creativity, and belonging. Whether behind a podium, facilitating a leadership retreat, or producing a fashion week kickoff, she leads with clarity, conviction, and joy.

A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Jessica was raised in a military family and draws inspiration from her Panamanian heritage and Afro-Caribbean roots. Her lived experience informs her people-centered leadership and her dedication to fostering spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered.