Hallema Sharif

Hallema Sharif is the Assistant Dean of Communications for Emory College of Arts and Sciences, where she leads initiatives to enhance the College's visibility, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful engagement with internal and external stakeholders. In this newly created role, she oversees a communications team, manages a comprehensive budget, and develops strategies that align with the College's mission of academic excellence and innovation.

A proud native of New Orleans, Hallema brings a deep appreciation for cultural richness and a global perspective shaped by years of living and working overseas. Her career spans top markets, including New York, Washington, D.C., and Chicago, where she has led transformative communications, marketing, and public relations initiatives.

With over 30 years of experience, Hallema is a seasoned strategist and the founder of two consultancies—HS Global Communications Collaborators and Catalyst Collective Initiatives—which reflect her commitment to leadership excellence and transformative change. Her career includes executive roles with Fortune 500 companies and prestigious organizations such as U.S. Bank/Elavon, The Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Burson-Marsteller, and the American Lung Association.

Hallema’s expertise encompasses change management, branding, employee engagement, and thought leadership. Her global work, including a partnership with the Qatar Foundation to elevate Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts' presence in Qatar, highlights her cultural competency and ability to navigate diverse landscapes. She has also made significant contributions to environmental advocacy, merging technical expertise with public engagement to promote sustainable practices.

Hallema earned a degree in Mass Communications from Xavier University of Louisiana and completed MBA studies in Marketing at the University of Phoenix. A 35-plus year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she exemplifies a lifelong commitment to service, sisterhood, and leadership.

She is also a proud member of the legendary Humphrey musical family. Her great-grandfather, Professor J.B. Humphrey, is celebrated as the "Grandfather of Jazz," honoring her family’s enduring legacy in the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans.

Hallema’s dedication to excellence, strategic vision, and proven ability to drive meaningful change have established her as a transformative leader in communications and organizational development