More than 100 staff members work in the Division of the Humanities. We'll introduce you to our staff in this continuing series.

Sharonda Lewis
Director of Financial and Grant Services; 
Office of the Dean

What do you like most about your job?
I love the great diversity of my role. Financial management is more than scrutinizing spreadsheets. The variety of tasks allows me to use both the analytical and creative sides of my brain. As well, I enjoy the collaboration across University departments and the cultivation of teamwork.

What was the last good book you read?
The last good book I read was Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual by Luuvie Ajayi Jones. One quote that stood out to me is: “We're all afraid. We're afraid of asking for what we want because we're afraid of hearing no. We're afraid of being different, of being too much, or not enough. We're afraid of leaving behind the known for the unknown. But in order to do the things that will truly, meaningfully change our lives, we have to become professional troublemakers: people who are committed to not letting fear talk them out of the things they need to do or say to live free.” This book tells us how to live boldly in spite of all of the many reasons we may have to be fearful. Currently, I am reading Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap ... and Others Don't by James C. Collins.

You might work with me if ...
… you need support with financial practices, planning processes, grant administration, policies and compliance knowledge, or other various business systems. Ask early! Ask often!

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving side dish?
My favorite Thanksgiving side dish is my Granny’s cornbread dressing; it is an absolute family favorite.

Thanksgiving 2018 was the best and the last holiday I spent with my Granny. The day before, we stayed up all night laughing, dancing, singing, and prepping for Thursday’s dinner. It's one of my most cherished memories. I've spent the last two years trying to perfect her recipe from memory. If I'm quiet and still, I can hear her voice coaching me through the process. I look forward to preparing my Granny’s cornbread dressing for my family this Thanksgiving. The smell of it cooking and savory flavor helps us feel closer to her.