Jellema Stewart

Associate Director, Community Engagement

Jellema Stewart (she/her/hers) is a dedicated student affairs practitioner and passionate advocate for students and communities, with community engagement at the heart of all she does. With over a decade of leadership experience in higher education, Jellema has developed expertise in community engagement, retention and recruitment, student engagement, mentorship, cultural humility, and global awareness.

Baltimore’s rich history and vibrant energy are a constant source of inspiration for Jellema’s work. The resilience, creativity, and steadfast commitment of its residents are the driving force of the city. From the arts and culture to social justice and activism, the stories of Baltimore’s diverse people continue to shape its identity. For Jellema, sharing this narrative with the Johns Hopkins University community is both a privilege and a responsibility—reminding us that the city and the university are not separate entities, but interconnected. It’s not “us” and “them,” but “we.” Through collaboration, understanding, and shared experiences, meaningful progress is made. Jellema is dedicated to building bridges that unite the university and the city, celebrating the strength and solidarity that define both.

Guided by the words of Nikki Giovanni, “We love because it’s the only true adventure,” Jellema strives to build relationships that empower students to embrace the adventure of serving and learning from their communities. She is a proud member of the “Legendary” Lambda Delta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and holds a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration as well as a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the State University of New York College at Buffalo.