S7E7: Driving the Narrative of Your Career with BWL Alums

In this episode, Laura  hosts an alumni panel of Black Woman Leading alums from the
Early Career and Mid-Career Programs (Alexys Anderson, Shelby Norman, and SherAaron Hurt) to discuss our season’s theme of Driving the Narrative of Your Career.

Emphasizing the importance of setting a personal vision and advocating for oneself while balancing heart work and head work along the career growth journey, they  explore the significance of mentorship, the challenges of navigating identity, and the importance of community support. 

The discussion highlights how embracing intersectionality and self-affirmation can empower Black women to take charge of their career narratives and pursue their professional visions with confidence. In this conversation, our program alums discuss the importance of intentionality in actions, the power of dreaming big, navigating fear and doubt, and the significance of self-advocacy. They also share their personal experiences and insights gained from the Black Woman Leading programs.  The discussion also highlights transformative moments in their leadership journeys, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort and give themselves grace in their career paths

 

Guest Bios:

::Alexys Anderson

Alexys Anderson is a Higher Education professional with a passion for supporting students on their journeys to and through graduation. Her professional roles have encompassed student success strategies, leadership development, and student retention.She received her Bachelor's in Psychology from Salisbury University and Master's degree in College Student Affairs from Rutgers University. 

Connect with Alexys LinkedIn.

 

::SherAaron Hurt

SherAaron Hurt is a visionary leader in data science education and inclusive community building. As the Director of Workshops and Training for The Carpentries, she oversees global workshop strategy and leads instructor and trainer development, certification, and community engagement. With a background in Business Administration, Marketing, and Hospitality Management, SherAaron brings a service-first approach to advancing equitable, high-impact learning experiences around the world.

She supports thousands of instructors and trainers across the globe, creating sustainable engagement and championing inclusive education through thoughtful programming and strategic leadership. She shares her insights on inclusive pedagogy, equitable access, and community-led learning at national and international conferences. Known for her warmth, intentionality, and authenticity, she builds lasting relationships and inspires teams to thrive.

Outside of her professional pursuits, SherAaron is a luxury travel enthusiast, fur-mom to her Shih Tzu  Oreo, and a certified fitness instructor affectionately known in gym circles as HypeChicSher. She teaches high-energy Cardio Kickboxing and proudly serves as a Brand Ambassador for Orangetheory Fitness. 

Her experience in the Black Women Leading (BWL) community helped spark her pursuit of a deeper calling—combining her passions for faith, flying, and fitness. Through her work and her workouts, SherAaron hopes to inspire others to elevate—one learner, one leader, and one lunge at a time.

Connect with SherAaron on LinkedIn and Instagram @sherfitlife

 

::Shelby Norman

Shelby Norman (she/her/hers) serves as the Associate Director of Professional Development & Outreach