Influential Woman · Education
Cherie Feemster M.ED
School Administrator
Gastonia, NC 28054
Her Story
About Cherie
Cherie Feemster, M.Ed., is an educational leader, administrator, speaker, and advocate for teacher empowerment whose career has been shaped by a lifelong connection to education. Raised in a family of educators, she was inspired by her mother’s more than three decades of service in the profession and the lasting impact she made on students, families, and communities. Watching her mother build meaningful relationships and create positive change both inside and outside the classroom sparked Cherie’s passion for education and set her on a path that began in early childhood education, teaching pre-kindergarten students and fostering a love of learning from the earliest stages of development. Over the years, Cherie has advanced into educational leadership roles where she supports students, families, and educators in creating thriving learning environments. As a school administrator and instructional leader, she oversees daily school operations, collaborates with teachers to ensure they have the resources needed for effective instruction, and helps maintain a positive, productive school culture. Her leadership philosophy centers on relationships, believing that meaningful connections are the foundation of student success and professional growth. Whether mentoring teachers, supporting families, or guiding students, she is committed to helping others recognize their potential and achieve their goals. Cherie holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from North Carolina A&T State University, a master's degree in School Administration and Leadership, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership. She is a bestselling children's author, she has published four phenomenal books centered on diversity, representation, and empowerment. Available on major digital book platforms. She is an active leader within the North Carolina Association of Educators and is passionate about advancing equitable opportunities and resources for students and families. Through her speaking engagements, professional development workshops, and advocacy efforts, she empowers educators to lead with confidence, resilience, and purpose. Guided by her faith, passion, and commitment to service, Cherie measures success not by titles or accomplishments, but by the lasting impact she leaves on the lives of the students, educators, and communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Cherie
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from God. I believe that, as I walk in my purpose and my passion, I know that He will always equip me to do what I need to do to be helpful and successful and accomplish my goals. All of my success, all of my accomplishments come from the grace of God in my life, and because I carry Him wherever I go.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I got was from my mother. She told me, Cherie, it's not about what you do when you're with a person all the time, it's about what the person remembers and shares about you when you leave. That comes with ensuring that you are making an impact in all that you say and do by being intentional with your words and actions that speak positively towards your character.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the field of education and leadership is to remember that your character and your impact will always reach farther than you ever will. Every word you speak and every action you take matters. Lead with integrity, purpose, and compassion, because you never know who is watching, learning, or being inspired by your example. Make every interaction count, as the relationships you build and the legacy you leave can open doors, not only for you, but for those who will follow behind you. Continue to use your voice boldly, advocate for others, and help create access to opportunities and spaces you may have never imagined possible.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education right now is ensuring that we attract, develop, and retain highly effective educators while meeting the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of students. Schools are facing increasing demands, and educators need strong support systems, meaningful professional development, and opportunities to grow as leaders. At the same time, one of our greatest opportunities is the ability to reimagine education in ways that are more equitable, innovative, and responsive to the needs of all learners. We have the opportunity to amplify student voices, embrace diverse perspectives, leverage technology thoughtfully, and build stronger partnerships with families and communities. As educational leaders, we must be willing to advocate boldly, lead with purpose, and create environments where both students and educators can thrive.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Character is incredibly important to me. To me, character is the foundation of leadership and the true measure of one's impact. It means a great deal when others can speak about your character before they speak about your accomplishments. The way we treat people, the integrity we demonstrate, and the value we bring into every space often speak louder than any title or achievement. I believe that strong character creates opportunities, builds trust, and opens doors to spaces and experiences we may never have imagined. Outside of my professional work, I enjoy singing, traveling, and spending quality time with my family. These experiences help keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of relationships, community, and lifelong learning.
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