By Carter Scott, with SGJC Student News Network
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, WEAA is proud to spotlight Sheri Booker — a writer, poet, and educator whose work captures the beauty and complexity of real-life experiences.
Her impactful storytelling has earned her national recognition, including an NAACP Image Award.
Beyond her writing, she is also shaping the next generation of storytellers.
With a master’s degree in creative nonfiction from Goucher College, she now teaches writing and communication courses at Morgan State University. Her dual role as a writer and professor makes her a powerful force in both creativity and mentorship.
Booker is a woman that proves passion and profession can go hand in hand, thriving as both an artist and an educator.
In our conversation, I asked Booker how she balances academia with her creative pursuits.
Her most powerful lesson? The power of saying "no."
"Trying to find balance in a demanding career can be a challenge, so setting boundaries for yourself is necessary for your peace of mind. Saying yes to everything doesn't make you more valuable."
For young adults feeling overwhelmed by expectations, her advice is clear; protect your time, prioritize your energy, and understand that your worth isn't measured by how much you can take on, but by the intentionality and passion you bring to your pursuits.
Booker also emphasizes the importance of taking charge of your mental health in preventing professional burnout. "In the past, we could just keep going and going without taking the time to check on ourselves to make sure we are okay mentally," she reflects. "This generational shift has changed the perception that constant hustle is not a badge of honor, but in fact a path to exhaustion. For black women especially , this means learning to recognize the signs of mental strain, setting clear boundaries, and understanding that self care is not a luxury, it's a necessity for success."
Listen to the interview and be inspired by a woman whose words continue to move and motivate.