Sierra Thomas

I attribute my success to a foundation built on resilience, faith, and the people who refused to let me shrink—especially my older brothers, who taught me early that confidence is not given, it is claimed. Their belief in me planted a fire that still fuels my work ethic and determination today.

But the real story is in the climb.

I am a first-generation high school and college graduate. I was a single mother for years, learning how to balance survival with dreams that felt too big for the life I was living at the time. I didn’t come from comfort; I came from grit. From late nights, hard choices, and showing up even when I was exhausted, uncertain, and scared.

Along the way, I was blessed to raise two incredible young women who are my daughters in every way that matters. They are part of my why. So is my son, who reminds me every single day that perseverance is love in action.

I move forward not just for myself, but to show every child—of every background, every race, every story—that possibility does not belong to the privileged. It belongs to the stubborn. To the brave. To those who keep going when the path is steep and the light is dim.

My success is not an accident.

It is the result of choosing growth, choosing courage, and choosing to rise—again and again.

The best career advice I have ever received came from General Colin Powell’s 13 Rules. They have guided me through every season of my life—through college, corporate leadership, and public safety—when the stakes were high and the path forward was unclear.

These rules taught me to lead with humility, clarity, and courage. To remain calm and kind in chaos. To check the small things. To share credit. To have a vision—and be bold enough to demand it. They reminded me that setbacks are temporary, that ego must never outweigh purpose, and that optimism is not naïve—it is strategic.

Most of all, they taught me that leadership is not about control, but about character.

In moments of pressure, I return to these principles. They ground me. They sharpen me. They remind me who I am and how I choose to show up—no matter the title, the environment, or the challenge.

General Powell said, “Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.”

I have lived that truth—and it has multiplied everything good in my life.

Seek out strong mentors who will guide, challenge, and support you as you grow. Don’t let outdated mindsets or limiting beliefs from others hold you back—be bold, trust your instincts, and stand firm in doing what’s right and effective. Most importantly, don’t give up. There will be challenges, especially as a woman in public safety and emergency management, but persistence, confidence, and a willingness to keep learning will carry you further than you think.

One of the biggest challenges right now is the significant funding shortfall at HBCUs in Missouri, which is impacting not only the universities themselves but also students’ access to essential resources and opportunities. This situation creates both a challenge and an opportunity: a challenge in ensuring institutions can maintain quality programs and support services, and an opportunity to advocate for innovative solutions, partnerships, and policies that strengthen these schools and expand access for students.

At the center of everything I do are honesty and integrity. They are not just words to me—they are the standards I hold myself to when no one is watching. I strive to approach every situation with transparency, fairness, and a strong moral compass, even when the path of least resistance would be easier.

These values shape how I lead, how I serve, and how I show up for the people around me. I believe trust is built through consistency, accountability, and the courage to speak truth with compassion.

Outside of work, I seek balance in the quiet moments. I find peace in thoughtful reading, especially books that challenge me to see the world through broader spiritual and cultural lenses. Time near the water grounds me—it reminds me to slow down, to breathe, and to remember what truly matters. And in the simplest moments, like relaxing with my dog, I find a sense of home.

Being a parent has been the greatest and most defining role of my life for over half of it. It has taught me patience, humility, and the power of unconditional love. I am especially grateful to now have my son home from the Navy, beginning a new chapter where we can share time, laughter, and everyday moments that once felt far away.

These values—rooted in truth, resilience, and love—are the quiet force behind everything I am building.