Naomi Jackson was born in Canada. She received her bachelor's in art history and philosophy from McGill University (Canada); master's in dance studies from the University of Surrey (U.K.); and doctorate in performance studies from New York University. She was appointed a Lincoln Center Scholar for 2012-2013. 

Among her publications are "Dance, Human Rights, and Social Justice: Dignity in Motion," (Scarecrow Press, 2008); "Right to Dance: Dancing for Rights," (Banff: Banff Centre Press, 2004) and "Converging Movements: Modern Dance and Jewish Culture at the 92nd Street Y," (Hanover: Wesleyan University Press, 2000).

Prior to joining Arizona State University, Jackson served on the faculties of The Juilliard School and Queen's College, NY.