Jessany Maldonado

Jessany Maldonado is a Professor in the School of Psychology at Kentucky State University, where she teaches psychology and sociology courses with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her interdisciplinary work bridges Psychological Sciences and Gender Studies, emphasizing student-centered, transformative pedagogy that fosters collaborative learning and theory-informed social change.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Gender Studies, Indiana University, 2023 (summa cum laude)
• M.A. in Women’s & Gender Studies, University of Northern Iowa, 2017
• B.S. in Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, 2015 (magna cum laude)

Dr. Maldonado's research focuses on the socio-sexual experiences of Black women, African Diasporic sexualities, masculinities, and the intersections of spirituality and intimacy. She employs ethnographic methods and critical theoretical frameworks to explore how marginalized communities navigate identity, power, and intimacy. Her work challenges heteronormative and Eurocentric epistemologies by centering Black, queer, and feminist perspectives.

Her recent publications examine Black women-loving-women relationships, same-gender dating preferences, and the heteronormalization of queer sexual roles. These works reflect a consistent focus on identity negotiation, cultural performance, and resistance within Black queer communities.

Scientific Awards:

• CAS Liberal Arts Teaching Award Honorable Mention, University of South Florida, 2023–2024

Dr. Maldonado is actively mentoring students and contributing to academic service through her role on the School of Psychology’s Professional Development Committee. While no specific grants are mentioned, her research agenda is deeply engaged with community-based ethnography and interdisciplinary scholarship. She continues to develop projects on Black women’s interethnic relationships, Black men’s masculinities, and the spiritual dimensions of sexual intimacy.

She is not affiliated with any named research lab or team in the provided text, but her ethnographic projects suggest collaborative, field-based inquiry with Black communities.