With over twenty years experience creating, leading, and executing programs in the technology and entertainment industries, Sharon joined OpenDP as its Director of Community Engagement in April 2023. Most recently, she led academic engagements and supported research operations at Meta/Facebook for five years where she spearheaded several initiatives collaborating with Meta research and policy teams that were keen to engage with academics around the world. During Sharon’s tenure, she developed new mechanisms for these engagements, grew and mentored a team, improved internal processes, and encouraged open paths for brainstorming, feedback, and cohesion. She also managed the company’s Fellowship PhD program for three years where she grew its scope, application base, and led a stronger diversity focus.

Previously, Sharon held several roles spanning ten years at Technicolor from working as a director in the company’s Chief Technology and Chief Scientists’ offices leading the Fellowship and Engineering Awards programs to driving marketing efforts for the research and innovation division or leading global events at major trade shows like CES, NAB, and IBC. Sharon began her career in marketing and sales at GameWorks/Sega Entertainment USA where she streamlined sales, finance, and advertising efforts for over six years. She received her B.A. from California State University, Fullerton in business administration with a concentration in marketing.