Sheila McDaniel

Chief Operating Officer
International African American Museum

What are you most looking forward to in your new position? 

“I am most excited to be a part of telling deep and rich stories. This museum is a powerful testament to the resilience and richness of African American history and culture. I look forward to working with the talented team at IAAM to ensure its continued success and impact.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now? 

I have had the privilege to work in the nonprofit sector for over 30 years, and there have been many challenges over the decades but one is always present, funding. Various factors impact the availability of funding, and the current times are no different. I continue to be extremely proud to work in this sector because of the dedication of those doing important and vital work that supports our communities and finding ways to meet those challenges.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? 

My first job was the summer after I graduated high school and left for college. I worked for the Department of the Navy as a procurement intern. The procurement team had a daily contest to see who could complete the newspaper Cryptogram puzzle. The skill that has stayed with me and I use it every day completing my Wordle puzzle.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

For me it was “Trust yourself.”In leadership often the inability to decide can cause me damage than a poor decision. If you have done the work of consideration, checked your sources trust yourself to make the best decision based on what you know. Also trust yourself that you will hold yourself accountable to the outcome.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? 

I played cello in my high school orchestra, and we played at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., my senior year.