Prior to joining NSBE in 1999, Sharon spent nearly 10 years at the International Association of Fire Chiefs, eventually working her way up to the Finance Director position.

Southerland-Smith holds a B.S. degree in Business Administration with a concentration in finance from Bowie State University and obtained a Masters in Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University.  In her previous role at NSBE, she was responsible for the financial operations of the organization, assisting the organization with income producing and cost-saving initiatives, the development of financial statements and analysis; budget development, and ensuring that solid financial policy/procedures & compliance were in place.