kendra ross

Dr. Kendra Janelle Ross is a world builder, freedom dreamer, and cultural worker whose life’s work sits at the intersection of art, equity, and community. A Black feminist scholar, award-winning musical artist, social impact executive, and civic leader, she has spent 20+ years asking one question in every room she’s entered: what does it take to create a world where more people are free?

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She serves as Head of Purpose & Experiences at Duolingo, where she built the company’s social impact function from the ground up. She is also the co-founder of ACT3 Consulting Partners, Vice Chair of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, and a Commissioner on Pennsylvania’s Early Learning Investment Commission, appointed by Governor Josh Shapiro.

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As an artist, she has shared stages with Lalah Hathaway and Gregory Porter, recorded on Quincy Jones' Q: Soul Bossa Nostra, and co-created Intersection*ology, a feminist live performance work at the intersection of women, technology, and voice, with artist Lori Hepner. Her forthcoming EP, This Womanist Work, supported by the Advancing Black Arts Grant, is the musical companion to her bi-weekly podcast of the same name. She also writes on Substack. 

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Based in Pittsburgh. Operating everywhere.

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photo credit: Eric A. Smith, Crew Productions, LLC (c) 2026