About Coach Shirley

Shirley is an accomplished educator, strategist, and student‑success leader whose career spans K–12, higher education, and workforce development. With a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School, a Master of Education in School Counseling, and a strong foundation in teaching and educational leadership, she brings a rare interdisciplinary perspective to improving learning experiences and institutional effectiveness.

Across nearly two decades of service, Shirley has built a reputation for designing innovative programs, strengthening academic systems, and empowering students and educators to thrive. She served as the Academic Success Specialist at Oxford College of Emory University, where she led Supplemental Instruction, developed academic support systems, and provided targeted interventions that improve student outcomes. Her work blends data‑driven strategy with personalized support, ensuring students have the tools, confidence, and guidance needed to excel.

Previously, as Director of Career Services at Brenau University, Shirley expanded career readiness initiatives, built strong employer and alumni partnerships, and delivered high‑impact professional development for students, faculty, and staff. Her leadership extended to coordinating major career fairs, launching mentoring programs, and elevating the university’s approach to career education.

Shirley’s expertise also includes experiential learning and virtual instruction through her work with Sora Schools, where she designed individualized learning pathways, facilitated professional development, and established accountability metrics for innovative educational programs. Her years with Atlanta Public Schools and multiple Georgia districts further highlight her strengths in gifted education, curriculum development, instructional coaching, and strategic program design. She has collaborated with leading institutions—including Emory University, Georgia Tech, Morehouse College, Illumina Technology, and the XQ Super School Project—to expand enrichment opportunities and build college and career-ready pipelines for diverse learners.

A sought‑after speaker, Shirley has presented at national conferences and universities on topics such as transferable skills, career development, experiential learning, and student success. Her presentations have been featured at the National Conference for Workforce Education, Brenau University, and Atlanta Public Schools’ Parent Leadership Academy.

Her work has been recognized through prestigious fellowships and competitive grant awards, including the STEM in Politics Fellowship from the Midwest Political Science Association and major funding from the Target Corporation, Chick‑fil‑A Peach Bowl Foundation, and Emory University’s EPiC Grant initiative totaling $1.5 million.

With certifications and endorsements in Educational Leadership, Gifted Education, Counseling, Online Instruction, and Social Studies, Shirley brings a comprehensive understanding of how students learn, how educators grow, and how institutions evolve.

 Her consulting practice reflects this breadth—helping schools, colleges, and organizations design stronger programs, build effective systems, and create meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for success in an ever‑changing world.