The Heart Behind the Title

“Before there was Dr. Spencer... there was simply Sharon. But somewhere along the way, I became Shazza.”

Shazza is more than a nickname. It was given to me by my late cousin, Alan McLean, in Scotland. What started as a nickname became a reminder of family, connection, and who I am beyond degrees, titles, and job descriptions.

My story begins with Antiguan roots, but my family stretches across the globe—from the Caribbean to the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Japan, and beyond. There’s probably a relative on nearly every continent.

Having family across countries and cultures shaped how I see the world. Home isn't always one place, and family isn't measured in miles. Some of our strongest connections survive oceans, time zones, and generations.

That sense of connection and service also extends to my Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® sisterhood. Being a member of AKA has given me another community grounded in sisterhood, service, scholarship, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others—values that are very much a part of who I am.

I'm also the proud mom of two awesome football players, so despite all the professional titles attached to my name, you'll find me on the field too—at practices, traveling to games, being team mom, celebrating the wins, encouraging them through the tough moments, and watching them grow.

Sports have become part of our family story, teaching us about commitment, teamwork, resilience, confidence, and showing up.

And yes, I am absolutely that sports mom. 🏈

When I'm not leading, teaching, consulting, or speaking, I'm simply Shazza—a daughter, mother, sports mom, AKA woman, traveler, lifelong learner, coffee enthusiast, cat mom, and someone figuring out life right alongside everyone else.

I believe some of the best conversations happen around a kitchen table, on the sidelines, during a road trip, while exploring somewhere new, among sisters, or over a really good cup of coffee.

That's what this side of Two Sides of Spencer is about—the life behind the title.