Sherese Johnson
Sherese Johnson is a seasoned Human Resources professional, consultant, educator, and training facilitator with more than 30 years of experience in the field. She is the owner of Strategic Human Resource Solutions, where she provides strategic HR consulting services to nonprofit organizations and educational institutions, specializing in performance management, talent acquisition, employee relations, and policy development. Her career began in 1994 with a nonprofit organization, and she has since held progressive leadership roles, including Associate Vice President of Human Resources and Chief Culture Officer at Chicago State University, as well as senior HR positions within the University of Illinois Chicago and other organizations across higher education and corporate sectors.
In addition to her HR leadership, Sherese is a dedicated educator and workforce development practitioner with a strong focus on training, instructional design, and employee engagement. She has extensive experience facilitating in-person, virtual, and hybrid training programs, including social-emotional learning workshops, parent engagement sessions, and staff development initiatives in K–12 and higher education environments. Her expertise also extends to curriculum design, onboarding programs, compliance management, and restorative justice and workforce development initiatives, particularly supporting second-chance populations and underserved communities.
Sherese holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources and an MBA, along with professional certifications including SHRM-CP and DEIB Specialist credentials. She is also actively engaged in community and professional service through organizations such as the Black Educational Advocacy Coalition (BEAC) and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Guided by a philosophy that “purpose is a journey, not a destination,” she remains committed to equity, lifelong learning, and empowering individuals and organizations through strategic human capital development and transformational leadership.
• SHRM - Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
• Certified DEIB Specialist
• IT Management + 4
• Lewis University - M.B.A.
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated (35 years)
• SHRM - Chicago Illinois Local Chapter
• National Member of SHRM (Society Human Resources Management)
• Community service through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated
• Black Educational Advocacy Coalition (BEAC)
• Taproot Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to seeing purpose as an ongoing journey, committing to continuous growth, maintaining long-term dedication in my field, and continually advancing my educational credentials while serving diverse communities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to actively build and expand their professional brand and network. Take advantage of platforms like LinkedIn to connect with others in your field, share your expertise, and stay visible. Commit to continuous learning to keep your skills relevant and growing, and seek out meaningful partnerships that can help you broaden your reach and increase your impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I see both challenges and opportunities in my field, particularly the need for greater visibility and equitable opportunities for Black women, especially within education, alongside the growing importance of representation and equity work. At the same time, I recognize strong opportunities to expand professional impact through building an online presence and forming strategic partnerships that broaden reach and influence.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith (putting God first), community service, equity and empowerment, family, and a commitment to lifelong learning.