LP 40 for 40 – Sharon Bradley

The Plano Chamber of Commerce’s signature program, Leadership Plano, celebrates its 40^th anniversary! For the past 40 years, Leadership Plano has been dedicated to educating, developing, and empowering current and future leaders for the community and motivating them to serve civic, charitable, and business organizations.

We are celebrating the impact of the past 40 years by spotlighting 40 Leadership Plano graduates who have paved the way for future generations, created meaningful change for the community, and continue to serve in leadership roles. This celebratory series, Leadership Plano 40 for 40, is Presented by UBS – The Kravitz Group.

Introducing our next spotlight, Leadership Plano Class 39 Graduate, Sharon Bradley. Sharon Bradley is a national educational speaker and director for Plano Independent School District where she has helped shape the district’s approach to social emotional development and truancy prevention for all students. Throughout her 23 years in education, she has served as director, alternative high school principal, assistant principal, dropout prevention program coordinator, general education teacher, and special education teacher. Sharon Bradley has recently been recognized by Education-First/Rockefeller Foundation and D CEO Magazine for her innovative efforts of decreasing chronic absenteeism. Sharon is the author of the reference guide “Chronic Absenteeism: Prevention and Intervention Strategies for Schools, Families and Communities” and has recently been named a 2024 “Leader to Learn From” by EducationWeek magazine. She is a graduate of Mississippi State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Special Education; and her master’s degree in Educational Administration from Prairie View A & M University.

As part of giving back to the community, Sharon serves on the board for Leadership Plano. She also serves on the board for CASA of Collin County board, an organization that advocates for neglected and abused children and SEL4TX. In 2023, she was recognized as “Person of the Year” by the International Truancy and Dropout Prevention Association. As a breast cancer survivor, she enjoys volunteering at the Gene and Jerry Jones Hope Lodge through the American Cancer Society.

1. What first made you interested in participating in Leadership Plano?

After dedicating over two decades to educating students and offering social services to families within Plano ISD, I developed a strong interest in expanding my involvement within the broader Plano community. I was eager to deepen my understanding of Plano civics, healthcare, business, public safety, and other areas to increase my impact in a different capacity.

2. What is the most memorable part of your experience (or what is something that was happening in Plano that you remember about that year)?

During my time in the Leadership Program, there were several memorable moments that stand out to me. One such moment occurred during a challenging task at a retreat, where I was able to succeed ONLY with the support and encouragement of my classmates. Their motivation and cheering on helped me push through a difficult situation and achieve a goal that I initially thought was beyond my capabilities. This experience not only boosted my confidence, but also left a lasting impact on me professionally.

3. Why do you think LP is so impactful for our community?

The reason why LP is so impactful in the community is because it is a collective of leaders who work together to bring positive, lasting change to Plano and Collin County. Whether it’s working on a project, starting a new initiative, or organizing a community event, and LP leader is never alone. There is a keen recognition that collaborative efforts are so much more effective than working in silos.

4. What is one thing you can attribute to LP that is a success in your life or career?

I attribute much of my success to Leadership Plano.  Several class members have identified skill sets within me that I didn’t see in myself. They encouraged me to share them with the community and beyond. Because of their ongoing support, I’ve had the pleasure to serve on nonprofit boards and train organizations across the country and become a published author.

5. If your class had a class project, what was it and why was it important?

As LP39 class members, we prioritize and celebrate each other’s achievements and show up for one another in extraordinary ways. I am so blessed and honored to be a proud member of the “Best Class Ever”!