Dexter Sharp, assistant vice president for graduate student enrichment at the Joint Office of Graduate Studies, reflected on his journey from being a first-generation college student to supporting graduate students at Georgetown University, according to a March 19 announcement.
Sharp said his own experience as the first in his family to attend college was shaped by support from parents, church leaders, and coaches. “That’s why I try to do everything I can to help others out, because I had tons of people behind me,” Sharp said. “They looked out for me, provided guidance and poured into me wisdom, courage and encouragement.”
At Georgetown since 2021, Sharp leads graduate student affairs across the Hilltop and Capitol Campuses for all students except those in law and medicine programs. His office organizes events and programming for graduate students, advises GradGov—the university’s graduate student government—and offers services such as alumni networking and leadership development.
Sharp began his career teaching high school math and coaching sports in North Carolina before moving into higher education roles at Fayetteville State University, East Carolina University, and Wake Forest University. He earned a Ph.D. in leadership studies with a focus on higher education from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2020.
Reflecting on his work with both undergraduate and graduate students, Sharp said: “But both student populations have the same wants and needs: They want to be treated fairly, they want to be seen and they want to be heard.” He also highlighted the challenges of engaging graduate students who are often spread across different locations but praised efforts at collaboration within the university community.
Looking ahead, Sharp emphasized Georgetown’s commitment to improving support systems for graduate students. “There’s a commitment…from other staff members to find ways to better serve graduate students. We’re doing a great job as a university in exploring ways to serve our students consistently, even through challenges,” he said.
