"At seven, Sharon Kaye Edwards lost her brother, leading to depression and bullying. Despite these challenges, her resilience and dedication to mental health support define her life’s work. "

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Sharon Kaye Edwards is a dedicated advocate for mental health and community development. She began her academic journey at Fisk University, majoring in Human Development and Leadership, where she was inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. Sharon later transferred to Austin Peay State University to study Sociology with a focus on Community Development, and she is set to graduate in 2025.

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She was also honored to be featured in the National Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C., as part of the Rev. Henry Clay Anderson collection, “Capturing Greenville, Mississippi, Deep South.” The following links showcase the photographs in which she is featured: one where she is pictured alone, and another where she is kneeling on the floor between two ladies dressed in white:

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https://nmaahc.si.edu/object/nmaahc_2012.137.25.21 

 

https://nmaahc.si.edu/object/nmaahc_2007.1.69.21.15.D? 

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Sharon earned her Public Innovator Certification from the Harwood Institute, emphasizing her commitment to driving innovation in public services through community engagement and data-driven decision-making. This certification underscores her dedication to fostering positive change within her community. She also serves as a STEM evaluator for the CMCSS STEM workshop at APSU and is part of the Partners in Education Association with Kenwood Middle School.

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In 2018, Sharon and her husband Ellery founded the non-profit I AM INVISIBLE BULLYING AND SUICIDE, focusing on anti-bullying and suicide prevention initiatives. Through her company, SKE Publishing, she has led anti-bullying initiatives and after-school programs at Kenwood Middle School.  As an author, Sharon has published three books on mental health and empowerment and co-written a short film, “I’m Invisible,” used in schools to raise awareness about bullying and suicide. 

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Sharon holds numerous certifications in the mental health field, including being a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Instructor and a Youth Mental Health First Aid provider. As a QPR Instructor, she trains individuals to recognize the warning signs of suicide and effectively intervene to save lives. Her Youth Mental Health First Aid certification equips her to assist adolescents experiencing mental health challenges or crises through a comprehensive 5-step action plan.

 

Additionally, in October 2024, Sharon completed Tennessee’s Certified Peer Recovery Specialist training. This program prepares her to provide peer-to-peer support services, working closely with individuals suffering from mental illness. After certification, Sharon will collaborate with behavioral health systems and medical professionals to offer holistic support and guidance, ensuring comprehensive care for those in need.

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​Sharon Kaye Edwards’ resilience and dedication to mental health support and community development define her life’s work, making her a true champion in her field.