A heart of true a Connector

I had the privilege of chatting earlier this week with Sherrica Davis-Hunt, MBA, the Assistant Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the SIU Foundation, as part of a class project on exploring the role of Leadership in DEI in Public Relations What I perceived would be a straightforward interview turned into a powerful exchange of ideas, laughter, and inspiration. Sherrica didn’t just share her vision of inclusive leadership; she embodied it, reminding me that real change happens when we lead with both purpose and heart. Her insights didn’t just resonate; they ignited something within me.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation that I will carry forward:

1. Embrace Your Unique Strengths: Trust in the power of empathy, communication, and authenticity as core leadership qualities. Her journey showed me that being true to oneself is a leader’s greatest asset.
2. Seek growth-oriented mentors: Not every mentor needs to be a cheerleader. The most valuable mentors challenge us, reflecting our potential while encouraging growth through tough but necessary conversations.
3. Make DEI a Core Commitment: DEI should be woven into the organization’s culture, not just treated as a mandate. Genuine care from leadership creates a lasting, inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.
4. Look beyond appearances: Leadership means seeing and supporting needs that aren’t always visible. Leading with empathy encourages us to recognize struggles that may lie beneath the surface.
5. Focus on Impact Over Titles: DEI work exists beyond labels. Consistent action and dedication are what truly create change, proving that it’s the commitment to the work, not the recognition—that matters most.

Throughout our conversation, I realized how Sherrica’s role at the SIU Foundation continues to leave golden footprints across our community. Whether collaborating with students, SIU alums, or stakeholders, she brings people together in ways that strengthen the community and ensure everyone feels valued and supported.

And O, we had great laughs too! Thank you, Sherrica Davis-Hunt, MBA