Shercoda Smaw

Shercoda was born in Norwalk, Connecticut and raised in nearby Stratford by her grandparents, John and Eunice Brown. She attended the public school system and was active in Stratford High School, being involved in the National Honor Society, Ushers Guild, Concert/Marching Band, Highsteppers, Drill Team, Track Team and a member of the youth choir at Community Baptist Church. This background was the template into reaching and achieving her future goals.

After graduating from High School in June 1991, she attended Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. While at Northeastern, she was active in the Medical Technology Club and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society. In June 1996, she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science (major), Biology (minor), and a certificate from Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Teaching Affiliate of Harvard Medical School) for co-op and clinical rotations. In 2002, she completed a Master’s degree in Ecology.

Currently, Shercoda is a doctoral student at Howard University’s Biology Department working with bryophytes and the effects of environmental pollutants. She also works with minority children in the DC area, helping them reach their academic goals.