Introducing Humans of Development: Sheryl Cowan
Highlighting the real people and measurable impact made through foreign assistance programming
What is one misconception your family has about your work?
I am Sheryl Cowan. No matter how often I explain, my family has never quite grasped what I do. They vaguely think I “help the world’s poor” and rarely ask for details.
I remember a holiday dinner when someone asked about my trip to Georgia—the country, not the state. I described joining a CNFA-led mission to help the government combat the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, which was threatening 60% of the hazelnut harvest.
As the world’s third-largest hazelnut producer, the economic stakes were high. A USAID-funded collaboration helped avert the crisis.
One relative blinked and said, “Oh, wow, that’s what you do?” I smiled. “That’s one of the many things I do.” A rare moment of recognition.
How did Peace Corps in Lesotho influence your career?
Growing up in the small rural town of Plymouth before the internet, I had little exposure to career possibilities. I only knew I wanted to help people and explore the world.
Joining the Peace Corps after college felt right, even if I didn’t see it as a career path. As an agriculture volunteer, my task was to help schools become self-reliant by replacing international food aid with gardens and livestock.
But enthusiasm was low.
I realized the issue a year and a half later: it wasn’t their idea. They hadn’t been asked what they needed. When I started listening and engaging the community, everything changed.
Energy replaced resistance.
Together, we designed and implemented their ideas—securing support and building real ownership. That experience shaped my commitment to effective, community-driven development.
I extended my service by one year and entered a master’s program ten days later. I’ve now spent over 30 years in this field.
What is one memorable impact that stands out?
Matching grants to entrepreneurial local participants is often an effective way to reduce the risk of trying something new, support business expansion, and provide collateral to access bank loans.
I led several projects that successfully used this approach.
One of my proudest moments came during a visit with the Country Director of CNFA to a large, upscale supermarket in Tbilisi. As we walked the aisles, she pointed out product after product: “This line of dried spices is from one of our grantees. That tea blend—another. Those sauces, too.”
The list went on. The packaging was professional, the products enticing. Many had replaced imports and were even being exported. These businesses were thriving—and creating jobs across their communities.
How do you stay current and develop professionally?
I strongly promote continuous learning and growth—for the communities we serve, my team, and myself.
Our work always includes an educational element, whether it’s business training, technology adoption, functional literacy, or other skills essential for sustainability.
Within my team, I foster a culture of collaboration, shared learning, and reflection—encouraging everyone to set and pursue personal development goals.
As for myself, even after 25+ years in this field, I’m still learning. I’m currently pursuing a second Master’s degree in Agribusiness through evening online classes and sharpening my public speaking through Toastmasters.
What keeps you inspired and grounded in the work?
Two things continue to inspire me: first, seeing measurable, lasting improvements in people’s lives through well-designed, well-executed projects I’ve helped lead; and second, the unwavering passion, dedication, and resilience of my local and international colleagues—even in the toughest circumstances.
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