Meet the D3 Staff: Shárryll Alford

Where did you grow up?

The first four years of my life were in Cleveland, Ohio and then my parents moved to Elyria, Ohio.

What is your degree in? Why did you choose that degree?

My degree is in Business Administration. When I initially got my degree, it was labeled Secretarial Science, but later changed to Business Administration.  

Originally I was going to pursue the legal realm as an attorney. But an older cousin, who was an attorney, talked me out of it. In some ways, I feel I made the right decision.

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.

I love dogs and horses. Previously, I wanted to raise show dogs and horses. While that did not happen, I still enjoy riding horses. Currently, I do not have a dog, but I started a dog sitting business that was going well until COVID hit. 

What is your history with Detroit?

I’ve lived in Michigan for 21 years now. My church is located in Detroit and I worked in Detroit once I left the original job that transferred me to Michigan.

What did you do before working at D3?

I’ve had a number of roles before coming to D3. I worked in the auto industry for some time, and then for a non-profit organization that handled the City of Detroit’s healthcare for citizens while the city was in bankruptcy. Then, for a little over two years I worked with the health department when it came back under the City of Detroit, as well as another city government in Oakland County. Recently I finished a temporary position with the State of Michigan.

What do you like about working at D3 so far? How do you think the work you are doing benefits the city/region?

I enjoy working at D3 because of the teammates who seem to enjoy what they are doing, put their all into it, but have fun at the same time. Retrieving and reviewing data for citizens who, if this was not taking place, would not have access/knowledge of a better way of life and resources.

What are your favorite types of data?

To be honest, I’ve never put much thought into it. I’ll have to revisit this question.

Who or what inspired you to take the path to Detroit, data, or both?

My original job is what brought me to the region. Saw the ad on Indeed and it piqued my interest. D3 makes me feel that they really care about the truth being given to people, not just words that sound good. They care about how people are treated and what they receive.

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