Sheria Smith

Sheria D. Smith is a former educator, judicial clerk, and corporate litigator. She is currently a civil rights attorney for the United States Department of Education, the federal agency that protects students’ civil rights in schools, helps them afford college, and funds educational programs. In 2019, Sheria’s work pivoted when her coworkers elected her as their union’s president for two three-year terms. In that role, she negotiated national policies and agreements that protected the Department’s workforce and improved their working conditions. When political leaders attempted to dismantle the Department of Education, Sheria pivoted again and became a spokesperson for her colleagues, frequently appearing on major news outlets like CNN, ABC, FOX, MSNBC, Washington Post, and the New York Times to discuss the importance of her Department, in particular, and independent federal service as a whole.

Based in: Dallas, TX
Organization: U.S. Department of Education
Position: Attorney and Labor Leader
Speaking topics: careers in public service, advocacy & organizing, leadership as a woman in government, supporting women in government
Audience preferences: all
In-person or virtual: both
Speaking format: lead presenter, panelist, workshop facilitator, Q&A/informal discussions
Speaker fee: $300–$500

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Page last updated 11:42 AM, July 8, 2026