Samford University has announced the appointment of Sheena Virji to the Howard College of Arts and Sciences advisory board. Virji, a 1998 graduate of Samford with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, brings extensive experience in human resources and a strong commitment to lifelong learning and service.
Virji also holds a Master of Science in human resource management from Georgia State University. With over 18 years of experience, she currently serves as a senior human resources manager at The Home Depot Store Support Center in Atlanta, Georgia. She is eager to contribute her people-centered perspective to the advisory board, helping bridge the collegiate experience with life beyond Samford.
“I am honored to join the Howard College advisory board and share a diverse perspective with the university,” said Virji. “The education I received at Samford laid the foundation for my lifelong learning and commitment to community service.”
In addition to her professional role, Virji has dedicated herself to advocacy work in women’s health. She was elected to the Board of Directors of the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance (GOCA) where she has been recognized for her fundraising efforts. She serves as chair of major events including the annual Teal to Heal fashion show and annual Shaken Not Stirred gala auction. Her involvement in GOCA stems from her personal experience with a family history of ovarian and breast cancer which motivated her to proactively manage her own health. She credits her mom, who lost her battle with ovarian cancer in 2016, with saving her life.
Alongside her advocacy work, Virji’s expertise in human resources continues to influence her approach to mentorship and leadership, a perspective she looks forward to sharing in her new role.
“Human resources has evolved tremendously in recent years, and I’m excited to bring that knowledge to the board,” Virji added. “Merging the collegiate experience with professional life is a great way to prepare students for their careers.”
Virji credits Samford with shaping her leadership journey and looks forward to giving back to the institution.
“Each professor invested in me and was instrumental in my growth,” she said. “I knew long ago I would seek an opportunity to give back, and I’m thrilled to do that now.”
In her spare time, Virji enjoys running, reading and traveling with family and friends. She is an active member of Chi Omega sorority and has served nationally with the Nancy Walton Laurie Leadership Institute of Chi Omega, facilitating leadership workshops across the country.
