Dawn X. Henderson, Ph.D.
Dawn X. Henderson, PhD, is a healing-centered thought leader, scholar, and author whose work bridges research, community engagement, and transformative practice. With a PhD in Community Psychology from North Carolina State University, Dawn has over two decades of experience designing programs, curricula, and learning experiences that center healing, equity, and collective transformation. Her career began as a middle school science teacher and evolved into higher education and nonprofit leadership, where she has applied her expertise in evaluation, research, and social change to develop people-driven solutions and empower communities.
Dawn is the founder of WeClaim Research, LLC, where she partners with organizations to create research agendas that advance healing-centered and transformative narratives. She is also the author of We Get to Love Human Dreams: A Guide to Building Community Within, reflecting her commitment to storytelling as a tool for connection and empowerment. Her collaborative leadership style and equity-centered facilitation have helped organizations and communities reimagine approaches to learning, leadership, and social impact.
Throughout her career, Dawn has been recognized for her dedication to research and community-driven solutions. She holds two master’s degrees from North Carolina State University and a B.S. in Chemistry from St. Augustine’s College. Among her proudest professional moments is officially launching her business, a milestone that embodies her commitment to creating spaces for healing, growth, and collective empowerment.
• Social and Behavioral Responsible Conduct of Research
• North Carolina State University- Ph.D.
• North Carolina State University- M.S.
• North Carolina State University- M.Ed.
• Saint Augustine’s University- B.S.
• Interdisciplinary Research Leader Fellowship
• Society for Community Research and Action
• Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues
• American Evaluation Association
• Psychology in the Public Interest Graduate Students
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my parents and my Aunt Pearl—my mother planted seeds of dreams and creativity, my father instilled pride in our culture, and my Aunt Pearl showed me the power of unconditional love.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from Rita O’Sullivan, who told me, “Always make sure you have the right change to get on the bus when it comes”.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remember that the most sacred community is oneself—turn inward to practice self-love and care and never be afraid to dream as big as you wish.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are spirituality, love, justice, and healing, as I believe healing is essential to transforming our circumstances. I also cherish creativity and connection, whether through art, Unisong song circles, belly dancing, long walks, or coordinating playful experiences for adults to embrace joy and freedom.