About me
Sierrah Chavis is an accomplished educator, advocate, and strategic leader with a passion for empowering communities and elevating underrepresented voices. She holds an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in School Administration and Leadership from Old Dominion University and a Master’s degree in Special Education and Secondary Education from Grand Canyon University. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Walden University, where her research focuses on leadership, equity, and systems change.
Currently serving as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at United Way of South Hampton Roads, Sierrah leads inclusive leadership development, donor engagement, and equity-centered initiatives that foster systemic change. Her professional journey has evolved from classroom teacher to Chief of Staff and Curriculum Specialist, with over a decade of experience shaping student success and organizational strategy.
Beyond her work in education, Sierrah is a two-time best-selling author, a committed board leader, and a fierce advocate for women and girls. She co-founded the Survivor Advisory Committee at FinAbility, serves as Gala Chairperson for the Green Run Collegiate Foundation Board, sits on the board of Black Women Educational Leaders, and serves as Director of Community Engagement for the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce tHRive Board. She is also the visionary behind Bossy Girl, a nonprofit movement uniting a diverse sisterhood of women—including entrepreneurs, CEOs, mothers, and emerging leaders—through empowerment, storytelling, and community-building.
Sierrah’s transformative impact has earned her numerous accolades, including:
100 Women to Know in America – JPMorgan Chase
Diversity Champion Award – Old Dominion University
Impact Leadership Award – Virginia Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (VASCD)
Teacher of the Year – Virginia Council for Learning Disabilities
National Teacher of the Year – Council for Learning Disabilities
Hampton Roads 40 Under 40 Award
YWCA Women of Distinction Award
2023 Women in Business Award – Hampton Roads
Girl Scouts Famous Formers Award
ODU Alumni 40 Under 40
COVA BIZ NextGen Award
Through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to service, Sierrah continues to create pathways for others to lead, thrive, and transform their communities.
