Sexuality educator and UNCG alumna Shemeka Thorpe has a strong desire to effect change in women’s healthcare.
“Because of cultural stereotypes, Black women are seen as promiscuous and hyper-sexual,” she says. “This affects how they embody their sexuality. They often feel ashamed or embarrassed to address sexual difficulties with their partners and medical providers. They’re afraid they’ll be judged. This impacts their ability to have pleasurable sexual experiences.”
She credits her passion for her work, and the chance to conduct research as an undergraduate, to UNCG. “I’m appreciative,” she says.
Her experiences at UNCG led her on a path to her work now in sexuality education.