Life is an Adventure. Let’s Explore the Journey Together!
In education and expanded learning, we often take the path less traveled – the unpaved trail that leads to exploration and adventure! The BOOST Breakfast Club Blog is excited to spotlight the journeys of the BOOST Leadership and BOOST Ambassador teams in the Fall 2025 Collaborative Blog Series – Share Your Career Journey: Explore the Path We’ve Traveled. Thank you to these important BOOST partners for adventuring into the unknown for the betterment of our youth and communities.
Let’s journey in style with Sheila James (She/Her/Hers)! Thank you, Sheila, for inviting us to join your journey! We appreciate you!
Explore the Path We’ve Traveled with BOOST Ambassador, Sheila James (She/Her/Hers)
Sheila is the Manager for the STEM Next Opportunity Fund/Teen Science Cafe in Conway, SC, and is a proud BOOST Ambassador.
What is your career path journey? How did you get involved in the out-of-school time, expanded learning, and/or educational fields?
My career journey has been anything but linear — it’s been a path of purpose, growth, and heart. I actually began in nursing because I’ve always been drawn to caring for others. Over time, I realized my true passion was in nurturing growth and curiosity, which led me to early childhood education. From there, my work naturally expanded into youth development, where I discovered the power of learning beyond the classroom.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats — teacher, outreach specialist, program administrator, technical assistance specialist, Director of STEM for a national nonprofit, and professional development trainer. Each role deepened my commitment to creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that empower both youth and the adults who support them.
What part of your career path has surprised you most?
What surprised me most was how naturally I transitioned from working directly with youth to training and supporting the adults who work with them. I never imagined that my passion for hands-on learning and youth voice would evolve into becoming a Master Informal STEM Trainer. It’s been incredible to see how the same curiosity and creativity that engage young people also inspire educators. Helping adults rediscover their own sense of wonder — and equipping them to bring that energy back to their programs — has been one of the most rewarding surprises of my career.
Who has supported you on your journey as a mentor, colleague, or friend?
I’ve been incredibly blessed to work alongside some of the best mentors and leaders in the out-of-school time field — people like Liz Nusken, Jorge Perez, Michele Ritchlin, Dr. AnnMarie Grassi, the late April Porter, and Alycia Orcena. Each of them has shaped my journey in meaningful ways. They modeled what true servant leadership looks like — leading with purpose, humility, and passion. Their guidance and belief in me have not only helped me grow professionally but also reminded me of the importance of lifting others as we climb.
What keeps you in the field?
What keeps me in this field is the impact — seeing lives change through out-of-school time programs that empower both youth and the adults who guide them. I’m inspired every time I see a young person’s curiosity come alive or an educator rediscover their passion. This work allows me to live out my calling of Leading with Heart and Learning with Purpose — creating spaces where learning is joyful, healing is possible, and everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of growth.
As you continue on the journey, what areas of leadership are you developing in yourself?
I’m continuing to grow in the areas of transformational and empathetic leadership — learning how to lead with both courage and compassion. This year, my focus word is CREATE, and I’m intentionally creating space for reflection, innovation, and healing in my leadership journey. I’m exploring how creativity and storytelling can inspire others to lead authentically and with purpose. Most importantly, I’m learning to give myself the same grace, curiosity, and care that I encourage in others as we grow and create together.
What skills are the most crucial to succeeding in this field?
In this field, success isn’t just about knowledge — it’s about connection. The most crucial skills are empathy, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to continuous learning. You have to be able to meet people where they are, listen deeply, and build relationships rooted in trust. Creativity and collaboration are also essential, especially in out-of-school time spaces where learning looks different every day. And above all, leading with heart — staying curious, compassionate, and purpose-driven — is what sustains you in this work.
What would you recommend others pack in their “career backpack”? Why are those items important?
First, pack your curiosity — it’s your compass for discovering new ideas and opportunities. Add a big dose of resilience, because every great adventure has a few detours. Don’t forget empathy and grace — they’ll help you travel light and lead with heart. Slip in a journal to capture lessons learned and moments of gratitude along the way. And of course, pack a little joy — your favorite playlist, some laughter, and a reminder of why you started. The journey is long, but when you lead with purpose, every step is worth it.
Tell us about your BOOST adventure? When did you get started?
I attended my first BOOST Conference in 2018, and I was hooked from day one! I had been to many OST events before, but BOOST was in a category all by itself. The energy, the people, and the passion were unmatched. I walked away with new connections, fresh ideas, and a heart full of inspiration. BOOST didn’t just fill my professional toolbox — it filled my cup.
What keeps me coming back each year is the sense of community and creativity that flows through every session and hallway conversation. BOOST reminds me why I love this work — it’s where passion meets purpose, and where we all refuel to keep leading with heart.
What is the best mistake you have made in your career? What did you learn from it?
My biggest mistake was not believing in myself sooner. For a long time, I downplayed my voice and second-guessed my abilities. Looking back, that “mistake” became one of my greatest teachers. It taught me that confidence isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about trusting your purpose and showing up anyway. Once I learned to believe in myself, doors began to open, and I started creating the kind of impact I used to only dream about. Every opportunity since has been a reminder that I was capable all along — I just needed to believe it.
Today, for breakfast, I had…
A Green Smoothie and Black Coffee.
Sheila, from all of us here at TEAMBOOST, thank you for inviting us to explore the path you’ve traveled and journey alongside you. We are excited to see where the adventure will lead as you INSPIRE YOUTH, INSPIRE LEARNING, and INSPIRE CHANGE.
Meredith White
I have so much gratitude for you, Sheila James! You are a true advocate and champion of both youth development and those who have the honor of working in our communities! Thank you for loving and leading by example.
This sentence: “BOOST reminds me why I love this work — it’s where passion meets purpose, and where we all refuel to keep leading with heart.” It fully encompasses the BOOST experience… we are forever in the work together, and when we gather together, it is like a homecoming for the heart. THANK YOU! Meredith
Deanna Underwood
You’re right – It is so important to support the adults who ultimately support the youth! We love having you as a BOOSTer!