"Having lost both my parents at a young age ignited the fire in my soul to be of service in the medical field in some shape, form, or fashion.”

Shari Sertima is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public health at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Shari is a first-generation college student as well as a first-generation American, whose family hails from Guyana in South America. At U-M, Shari has excelled in her studies, maintaining a high GPA. She is also a proud SOAR Transfer Student, having previously earned two associate degrees with honors from Wayne County Community College in computer information systems and mental health counseling.

Shari’s passion for community health stems from her personal experiences as a caregiver for her father, who suffered a debilitating stroke in 2007. For several years, Shari provided him with 24-hour care, helping him regain basic functions. This life-changing experience ignited her interest in public health and solidified her commitment to improving healthcare access for underserved communities. Reflecting on her journey, Shari shares, “Having lost both my parents at a young age ignited the fire in my soul to be of service in the medical field in some shape, form, or fashion.”

In addition to her academic pursuits, Shari is actively involved in community organizing and holds a leadership role in a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating, honoring and promoting Black Excellence in all art forms. As a Program Activist and Project Lead for Homage to Black Excellence, she has been instrumental in planning and implementing community health initiatives aimed at supporting caregivers and addressing healthcare disparities in metro Detroit.

After graduation, Shari plans to continue her education in public health epidemiology and work for a federal agency, where she hopes to do research, and create and influence programs that are committed to making a lasting impact in her community and beyond.

CEW+ commends Shari’s service to her community and names her a Ruth Buttrey Scholar.