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 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.
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, and sits on the board of Black Women Educational Leaders. 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 of 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
At her core, Sierrah is a devoted wife and proud mother of four amazing children. She finds
joy in traveling, cooking, writing, and giving back through meaningful volunteer work that uplifts
and unites her community.