Ivy Talk: Beyond Representation: Reclaiming Power in Research and Community Engagement

Community work requires more than just representation—it demands a shift in power. In this talk, Dr. Sherica D. Jones-Lewis explores how research and community engagement must move beyond extractive models to center lived experiences, drive structural change, and foster genuine partnerships. Through real-world examples and interactive discussion, she will share strategies for shifting from inclusion to true empowerment in decision-making spaces.

Dr. Sherica D. Jones-Lewis is a leader in community-based research and people-centered systems change. As the Director of Community Research at The Equity Center at UVA, she works with grassroots organizations, policymakers, and institutions to drive solutions that empower historically marginalized communities. She has over 20 years of experience in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.

Dr. Jones-Lewis leads initiatives to ensure that communities are not just studied but are central to shaping solutions. She has played a pivotal role in projects such as the Community Fellows in Residence program and continuing dialogues on community safety. Her expertise includes strategic facilitation, coaching, and consulting through her business, JS Strategies, where she centers people and shifts power to foster lasting change.

This talk is being held on Zoom. Register here to receive the link: https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/o8w3dy