At the Society for Advancement of Management, we take pride in celebrating members who go beyond expectations to lead with impact, purpose, and heart. That’s why we’re thrilled to share that Shelby Perry, adjunct professor at the New England Institute of Technology and an active SAM member, has been recognized by Providence Business News (PBN) as part of its 2025 Business Women Awards.
This honor celebrates the success of women across industries in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. It highlights both established leaders and rising professionals who are making a difference in their fields. Shelby was selected as one of the Women to Watch for her outstanding contributions to education, public health advocacy, and leadership development. Her recognition reflects a growing influence that reaches across academia and nonprofit work.
Shelby’s journey is grounded in resilience and purpose. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life, she began pursuing a master’s degree in public health at New England Tech, a school close to her hometown of Coventry, Rhode Island. During her studies, she joined the faculty as a teaching and research assistant. She later became an adjunct professor, where she continues to mentor and guide students.
Her involvement with SAM has also left a strong impression. In 2023, Shelby was named the International Collegiate Member of the Year and has received a SAM Leadership Award in recognition of her support for the organization nationally. She has coached teams, supported peer learning, and helped build opportunities for students to grow both professionally and personally.
Outside the classroom, Shelby’s work continues to spark change. In 2021, she founded Operation: LifeLines, a nonprofit that addresses the lack of education around human trafficking in healthcare settings. Her three-year research study examined how medical professionals are trained to identify and respond to trafficking victims. Shelby has presented her findings at regional and national conferences, helping to push this critical issue into the spotlight.
“I remember sitting on my couch crying and feeling really angry and sad for all the women it happened to,” she said. “Once I started doing more research, I got sad and angry and said, ‘OK, I really want to do something about this.’”
Shelby’s ability to turn emotion into action reflects the best of what SAM stands for. Her leadership shows how management is not just about strategy or oversight. It is about using your skills to serve others and create change that matters. We are proud to honor Shelby Perry as a SAM member whose achievements continue to inspire, challenge, and uplift our community.
CALL TO ACTION
Have you or another SAM member recently earned recognition for work beyond the organization? Whether you are launching a nonprofit, receiving an industry award, or leading meaningful initiatives, we want to hear about it. Email us at [email protected] or tag us using #SAMSpotlight to be featured in a future member profile.