Dr. Gena L. Ross

Dr. Gena L. Ross, born and raised in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), is an Evangelist Missionary devoted to serving God through evangelism, education, leadership, and public service. A native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, now residing in Kansas City, Missouri, Dr. Ross exemplifies faith in action by empowering individuals and communities through ministry, education, advocacy, and civic engagement.

Dr. Ross serves as Director of Student Support for Program Success and as an Adjunct Professor of Political Science.

With experience in conflict resolution, advocacy, public policy, and higher education, she is committed to helping others succeed while promoting effective leadership and stronger communities. She is also a commissioned Missouri Notary Public.

Dr. Ross holds a Doctorate in Public Policy and Administration, a Master’s in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, and an Associate Degree in Urban Ministry. She is a graduate of the Leadership Effectiveness and Advancement Program (LEAP) and a member of Pi Alpha Alpha and the National Society of Leadership and Success. She also holds certificates in Church Planting from Asbury Theological Seminary and Prepare/Enrich.

Her commitment to public service has extended into the political arena. Dr. Ross previously served as a Constituent Services Representative and was a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2020 and the U.S. Senate in 2022.

Most recently, in 2026, she ran for Platte County Presiding Commissioner in the Republican primary, becoming the first African American candidate to seek the countywide office.

Despite significant mobility challenges that limited traditional, in-person campaigning, Dr. Ross remained in the race, conducted much of her outreach through social media and community education, and earned approximately 30 percent of the primary vote. Her campaign emphasized “People Over Politics” and focused on transparent government, responsible growth, fiscal accountability, public safety, and service to all residents of Platte County.

Recognized among COGIC’s 150 Most Influential Women, Dr. Ross is also an author, songwriter, educator, and mother of three adult children. She is a member of Boone Tabernacle Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop L. F. Thuston.

Whether serving through ministry, education, community leadership, or public service, Dr. Ross remains committed to a life of faith, purpose, perseverance, and service—using every opportunity to encourage others, strengthen communities, and make a positive difference.                                       

"March 28, 2020, I was hospitalized with COVID-19 for about 6 days, and again in April for another 4 days. I survived. God brought me out. I promised God I would tell my testimony of how He kept me. He spared my life. I'm blessed and thankful to be alive and able to give God my best praise. Listen to the lyrics, not my voice. I wrote and produced my own album. To God be the glory!" ~ Dr. Gena Ross