Gayle Jessop White Biography

Gayle Jessup White holds the position of Public Relations & Community Engagement Officer at Monticello which makes her a living connection between America’s intertwined histories while being the first person to serve in this role at Thomas Jefferson’s historic estate. Through her dual ancestry which connects her to both Jefferson and the Hemings and Hubbard families who were enslaved at Monticello she represents the neglected stories of American history.

Gayle uses her journalistic background as a former award-winning television reporter and anchor at the New York Times to research genealogy and share stories with the public. Through her memoir Reclamation: Sally Hemings, Thomas Jefferson, and a Descendant’s Search for Her Family’s Lasting Legacy she documents her five-decade journey from family stories to DNA evidence that revealed her connection to both the enslaver and the enslaved while showing how their experiences formed her identity.

Since joining the Foundation in 2016, Gayle has led Monticello’s descendant outreach, educational endeavors, and interpretive strategy—amplifying the voices of those whose labor and lives were historically marginalized. She serves on Virginia’s Citizens Advisory Council for the Executive Mansion and holds board positions with Albemarle–Charlottesville Historical Society, Charlottesville Live Arts, and Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest.

Through her powerful keynote speeches Gayle speaks to audiences across the nation at universities and festivals and historic forums to promote discussions about race and memory and identity and reconciliation. Her 2024 Clemson University appearance underscores her mission: to inspire others to uncover and honor their own histories.

Through her work Gayle Jessup White provides an emotional and knowledgeable perspective for Americans to face their connected historical pasts. Through her work she retrieves forgotten ancestors while constructing inclusive stories that enable institutions and communities to confront their legacies and free up historical facts.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Gayle Jessop White's expertise is in high demand. To book Gayle Jessop White for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Gayle Jessop White's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Gayle Jessop White's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Gayle Jessop White for your next speaking engagement.