Jessica Bertram Williams

Jessica Bertram Williams (she/her) is a southern bred movement artist driven by storytelling and play.  She holds degrees in Dance & Movement Studies and Anthropology & Human Biology from Emory University and a Master’s of Fine Arts in Dance with an emphasis in Ethnic Studies from the University of Colorado Boulder.

Jessica’s research and teaching is guided by Black feminist/womanist thought and communal liberation practices. Her movement practice  is grounded in forms of improvisation and classical modern, however, she reaches fullness in the movement of the African Diaspora. Jessica finds purpose as a vessel for her ancestors, a body to illustrate their stories, lessons, and values.

She has worked diligently as an educator, community organizer, mentor, choreographer, and performing artist across the southeast and west coast. Jessica is happy to continue this work at Whitman College in Washington state as a Visiting Assistant Professor in their Theatre and Dance Department.

Areas of Expertise/Interest

Black Feminist Thought, Womanism, Communal Liberation, PanAfricanism, Improvisation, Afro-Fusion, and Contemporary Movement Practices.