OCC FAMILY 

Sherri Friend

President & CEO

Three things I can’t live without:
Faith, Family, Friends

One thing I’m most proud of:
The two little girls who call me mommy!!

What I love about working at OCC:
The people (they inspire me)
The laughter (brings me joy),
The challenges (keep me humble and striving to push the mission of OCC to touch more lives)

Favorite song:
You Are My Sunshine (from the beginning to the end of life, this song comforts, brings joy, and holds special memories shared through generations)

Bio:
Sherri Friend is the President and CEO of Oakwood Creative Care.  Sherri has dedicated her career to finding creative solutions to enriching the lives of individuals with perceived obstacles, and filling those lives with purpose and meaning. As a passionate advocate, she has become an effective business strategist with the proven skills needed to grow and develop non-profit organizations, enabling them to expand their reach and impact into the community. Sherri has developed an understanding of effective management of nonprofit organizations and how to effect positive change.

Sherri began her career with an internship in the United Kingdom where she had the opportunity to work in a cutting edge program for adults with developmental disabilities. Upon her return to the United States, she gained additional experiences leading home and community based nonprofits throughout Arizona. Sherri has been recognized through her leadership as 2015 Nonprofit of the Year by Mesa Chamber and received the Amazing Women Award in 2016 by the National Bank of AZ and the Phoenix Suns.