Dr. Sharon H. Porter, widely recognized as “Dr. Sharon,” has carved a path of influence and inspiration across the fields of education, media, and leadership. As an award-winning educator, accomplished author, and dynamic media host, Dr. Sharon brings an unparalleled blend of passion and expertise to everything she does. From overseeing the operations of her publishing firm, Perfect Time SHP LLC, to leading Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine, Dr. Sharon uses her platforms to uplift and empower others. Through The Next In Line to Lead Aspiring Principal Leadership Academy, she prepares assistant principals across the U.S. to become exceptional leaders in education. Join us as we delve into Dr. Sharon’s remarkable journey, her challenges and triumphs, and her unwavering dedication to building a legacy of mentorship, empowerment, and authentic storytelling.
Dr. Sharon, you’ve had a remarkable journey through education, media, and leadership. What challenges did you face as a woman in these traditionally male-dominated fields, and how did you overcome them?
One of the most significant challenges I faced was overcoming the preconceived notions and stereotypes about women’s roles and capabilities in leadership and media. There were times when I felt the pressure to prove myself and work twice as hard to gain the same recognition as my male counterparts.
To overcome these challenges, I leaned on a few essential strategies. First, I embraced the power of continuous learning and self-improvement to ensure I brought undeniable value to every role I held. Second, building a strong support network of mentors, sponsors, and like-minded peers who could provide guidance and encouragement was crucial. Lastly, I made it a priority to create opportunities for other women to rise alongside me. This fostered a sense of solidarity and collaboration that strengthened our collective presence in these fields.
Through Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media, SHP Media and Broadcasting Studio, and Perfect Time SHP Publishing, I aim to amplify the voices of women and ensure that our stories and contributions are seen, heard, and celebrated. It is through resilience, persistence, and the willingness to lift as I climb that I have navigated these challenges and thrived.
Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine has made a unique impact in media, especially for Black women. Can you share your vision behind the magazine and why authentic storytelling is so crucial?
Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine was born from a deep desire to create a platform that not only uplifts but also celebrates the voices and stories of all women and other underrepresented communities. My vision was to fill a gap in the media landscape — a space where authentic, diverse storytelling takes center stage and where readers can see themselves reflected in powerful, inspirational ways.
Authentic storytelling is crucial because it has the power to connect, inspire, and validate experiences that are often overlooked or marginalized. For Black women specifically, our stories are frequently underrepresented or misrepresented, having a platform where we can share our truths in our own voices is transformative. It reclaims our narrative and showcases the resilience, brilliance, and diverse journeys that we embody.
With Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine, my goal has always been to provide a beacon of empowerment and a resource that encourages our readers to live boldly and purposefully. I believe that when we tell our stories, we inspire others to recognize their own potential and purpose. That is why storytelling, with authenticity and integrity, is at the heart of everything we do.
With The Next In Line to Lead Aspiring Principal Leadership Academy, you’re equipping assistant principals to step into principal roles. What qualities or mindsets do you think are essential for future leaders in education?
Future leaders in education must possess a combination of qualities and mindsets that enable them to navigate the complexities of modern learning environments while fostering innovation, inclusion, and growth. One of the most critical qualities is adaptability. Education is constantly evolving with new technologies, pedagogical approaches, and societal needs. Leaders must be willing and able to pivot, learn, and implement new strategies to meet these changes head-on.
Equally important is empathy. Effective leaders in education must understand and connect with the diverse backgrounds, challenges, and experiences of both students and staff. Empathy fosters trust and a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard, which is essential for creating a thriving educational culture.
Collaboration and inclusivity are also key. Leaders should be skilled at working with teams, breaking down silos, and bringing together different voices to solve problems and innovate. This approach ensures that decisions are well-rounded and reflect the diverse perspectives within educational communities.
A growth mindset is essential as well. Leaders need to approach challenges as opportunities for learning and growth — not only for themselves but for their entire school or organization. They should encourage continuous improvement and inspire others to strive for excellence without fear of failure.
Lastly, strong communication and a vision-driven approach are non-negotiable. Leaders must be able to articulate their vision clearly, inspire others, and lead with a purpose that aligns with the core values of education. This helps set a unified direction and empowers educators and students to move forward confidently.
Future leaders who embody adaptability, empathy, collaboration, a growth mindset, and strong communication will be well-equipped to make meaningful, lasting impacts in education.
How do you envision the role of a principal changing as schools adapt to new technologies and societal needs?
The role of a principal is evolving in significant ways as schools adapt to new technologies and the shifting landscape of societal needs. Principals need to be more than just administrators; they must transform into visionary leaders who can seamlessly integrate technology and respond to broader social dynamics to create enriched learning environments.
Firstly, principals will need to be champions of digital fluency. With technology being central to how students learn and engage, principals must guide their schools in adopting new tools and platforms that enhance educational experiences. This involves not just incorporating tech but understanding its impact on teaching and learning, ensuring it’s used ethically and equitably to benefit all students.
Additionally, principals will need to lead with an even greater focus on social and emotional learning (SEL). The needs of students and staff have become more complex, especially with mental health and well-being gaining more recognition. Principals must prioritize creating supportive and inclusive school cultures that address the holistic needs of students, acknowledging that academic success is deeply connected to emotional health and social belonging.
Collaboration will also become a more critical part of the role. Principals will need to be effective in building partnerships with parents, the community, and external organizations to support student learning and well-being. This means being open to innovative approaches, such as community-based programs and experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond traditional classroom boundaries.
Lastly, as societal expectations shift, principals will need to be proactive change agents who embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of their leadership. This involves advocating for policies and practices that ensure all students feel represented and empowered, preparing them to thrive in a diverse world.
In essence, the principal’s role will increasingly require them to be adaptive, tech-savvy, and empathetic leaders who can navigate a rapidly changing educational landscape while staying rooted in the mission of fostering student growth and well-being.
Mentorship seems to be a major part of your life, both as a mentor and as someone involved in organizations like Delta Sigma Theta and the Forbes Coaches Council. How has mentorship impacted you, and what does being a mentor mean to you?
Mentorship has been an incredibly impactful part of my journey, shaping not only my career but also my personal growth. As someone who has both benefited from and provided mentorship, I can say that it’s a powerful cycle of learning, support, and inspiration. Early in my career, having mentors who believed in me, shared their wisdom, and guided me through challenges was instrumental in helping me find my path and develop confidence in my abilities. These relationships taught me the value of giving back and being present for others who are navigating their own journeys.
My involvement with organizations like Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Forbes Coaches Council has further deepened my commitment to mentorship. These groups emphasize service, leadership, and empowerment, aligning perfectly with my belief that mentorship is not just about guidance but about creating a legacy of support. Being part of such organizations has given me a platform to mentor others on a larger scale, fostering environments where collective growth and empowerment thrive.
To me, being a mentor means more than sharing expertise or offering advice. It’s about being a listener, an encourager, and someone who sees the potential in others, even when they might not see it themselves. It’s about guiding individuals to discover their strengths and helping them build the resilience needed to achieve their goals. The most rewarding part is seeing mentees surpass their own expectations and, in turn, become mentors themselves, continuing the cycle of positive influence.
Mentorship is at the core of building strong, capable leaders who can effect meaningful change. It’s about lifting as you climb and knowing that by investing in others, we create stronger, more connected communities. This commitment to mentorship fuels my passion for every endeavor I take on, whether in education, media, or leadership development.
What else would you like our readers to know about you at this time?
I would love for readers to know that my journey is rooted in a deep passion for empowering others and fostering environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether through my work in education, media, or leadership, my goal has always been to create spaces where individuals can thrive, share their stories, and reach their fullest potential.
At this time, I am especially focused on expanding the reach and impact of Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media as well as SHP Media and Broadcasting Studio, as I believe that storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and change. These platforms allow me to amplify diverse voices and showcase stories that inspire, educate, and uplift communities through print and broadcast media.
I also want readers to know that I remain committed to lifelong learning and encouraging others to embrace continuous growth. Whether it’s through my involvement with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Forbes Coaches Council, or other leadership endeavors, my mission is to be a beacon of support, mentorship, and innovation.
Lastly, I’d like to share that I’m excited about collaborating with other changemakers and thought leaders. Building strong, meaningful partnerships is at the heart of making a significant impact. If you share a passion for mentorship, empowerment, and creating platforms for authentic voices, I welcome opportunities to connect and collaborate.
What message would you like to pass on to the next generation of educators, leaders, and media professionals?
My message to the next generation of educators, leaders, and media professionals is this: lead with authenticity, courage, and compassion. In a world that is constantly changing, the ability to stay true to your values while being adaptable is what will set you apart and allow you to make a meaningful impact.
For educators, remember that your role is more than teaching content; it’s about inspiring and nurturing the potential in every student. You have the power to ignite curiosity, build confidence, and guide the next generation to become critical thinkers and compassionate citizens. Embrace the power of connection and always be a learner yourself.
To leaders, lead with empathy and purpose. Leadership is not about power but about service. Build teams that are diverse, inclusive, and innovative, and create environments where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best. Listen more than you speak, and never underestimate the importance of mentorship and uplifting others as you climb.
For media professionals, I urge you to harness the power of storytelling responsibly and authentically. Media holds the power to shape narratives, inspire change, and build bridges of understanding. Be intentional about using your platform to highlight diverse voices and stories that need to be told. Integrity and authenticity in storytelling are what will earn trust and create real, lasting impact.
Above all, remember that success is not just measured by accolades or titles but by the lives you touch and the legacies you build. Stay resilient, never stop learning, and be fearless in pursuing your purpose. The world needs your unique voice and vision.
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