Renesha Hendrix
Renesha Hendrix, Ph.D. is a Lecturer at Savannah State University, where she is dedicated to delivering high-quality computer science education to students from diverse backgrounds. Since joining SSU in August 2025, she has focused on classroom instruction, curriculum development, and student mentorship. In addition to her university role, Renesha works as an independent education consultant, helping develop and implement K-12 computer science curricula and creating hands-on learning experiences that introduce young learners to coding and computational thinking.
Dr. Hendrix earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science from Georgia State University, where she also served as a Graduate Teaching and Research Assistant. She holds a Master of Science in Computer Science from Jackson State University, where she participated in the Louis Stokes Mississippi Alliance for Minority Participation (LSMAMP) Bridge to Doctorate program and was an active member of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and the Golden Key International Honour Society. Her academic and professional journey reflects a long-standing commitment to fostering equity and accessibility in technology education.
Renesha’s research and publications focus on programming pedagogy, computational thinking, and culturally relevant STEM education. Notable works include First Programming Language for High School Students and Culturally Relevant Computational Thinking Curriculum with Urban Latino Youth: A Feminist Standpoint Epistemology Analysis. Through her teaching, mentorship, and outreach programs, she continues to inspire and prepare the next generation of computer science students, particularly those from underserved communities, to engage confidently with technology and pursue careers in computing.
• Georgia State University - PhD
• Jackson State University - MS
• Jackson State University - BS
What do you attribute your success to?
Renesha Hendrix explained that her main area of expertise is computer science education, with a deep focus on teaching programming, building foundational digital skills, and creating accessible learning opportunities for students from diverse communities. Renesha shared that she specializes in curriculum development, hands-on coding instruction, and building pathways into computing for students who may not otherwise have exposure to technology. Renesha shared that she entered the field in 2015 when she began her Ph.D. journey in computer science, a moment she considers the true start of her career in computing. Renesha explained that over the last decade she has taught, mentored, and created programs dedicated to equity in tech education, shaping future generations of computer science students. Renesha explained that she is currently a full-time teaching professor at Savannah State University, where her days consist of teaching courses, grading assignments, holding office hours, advising students, and running an after-school coding program. Renesha shared that she is committed to building confidence in students who may feel intimidated by computing, often staying after hours to give extra support and individualized instruction. Renesha shared that her most meaningful achievement was her work with a Latino after-school program in Atlanta, where she introduced students to programming through Scratch, Arduinos, and LEGO Mindstorms. Renesha explained that seeing these students create their first projects and watching their sense of pride grow confirmed her calling to expand coding education to underserved communities.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Renesha explained that her godmothers, Carrie Major and Carrie Smalls, have been two of the most influential mentors in her life, guiding her since childhood with love and accountability. Renesha shared that additional mentors—such as Miss Teresa Roberts and Desiree Mungin supported her educational initiatives and personal resilience. Renesha said she attributes her success to determination, faith, and the belief that every obstacle is preparation for something greater.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Renesha explained that her biggest advice to young women is to remember that every “no” is not a rejection it may be redirection toward something more aligned with their purpose. Renesha shared that women entering computing should trust their abilities, create their own path, and refuse to be discouraged by challenges. Renesha said perseverance is powerful, and staying committed to the end always produces growth and opportunities.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Renesha explained that one of the biggest challenges she faces in computer science education is retention, especially among female students, which has declined since COVID due to alternative income opportunities and shifting academic motivation. Renesha shared that the opportunity lies in making computing feel more welcoming, more relevant, and more supportive, with intentional mentorship and community-focused programs built specifically for young women.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Renesha explained that the core values guiding her work are service, authenticity, and perseverance. Renesha shared that she holds herself to a high moral standard, believing deeply in doing right by her students and creating safe, inclusive spaces where young people can grow. Renesha said that in her personal life she values loyalty, family, gratitude, and the belief that everyone has a purpose—and she strives every day to live in alignment with her own. Renesha shared that she enjoys traveling, crocheting, reading, watching movies, and staying connected to her alma mater, Jackson State University. Renesha explained that she hopes to attend the upcoming game in Atlanta if Jackson State qualifies. Renesha said these hobbies help her unwind, reconnect with herself, and stay balanced as she juggles teaching and community work.
Future goals and long-term vision
Renesha explained that her long-term goal is to establish a nonprofit coding program that will bring free technology education to underprivileged children in small towns. Renesha shared that she ultimately wants to train teachers to teach computer science, multiplying her impact and expanding access far beyond what one person can do alone. Renesha said her mission is to increase female representation in computing and create products, resources, and opportunities designed specifically with young women in mind.