In the world of philanthropy, Sheri Kersch Schultz may not be a household name, but her influence runs deep. As the wife of Howard Schultz, the visionary behind Starbucks, Sheri has spent decades quietly shaping the culture of one of the most iconic brands in the world. But more importantly, she has carved her own path as a powerful advocate for social justice, youth empowerment, and veteran reintegration. Sheri’s work with the Schultz Family Foundation exemplifies a compassionate and forward-thinking approach to solving some of the most pressing challenges of our time. In this article, we take an in-depth look at her life, mission, and lasting legacy.
Quick Bio Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sheri Kersch Schultz |
| Known For | Co-founder of Schultz Family Foundation, wife of Howard Schultz |
| Education | B.A. in Political Science, University of Denver |
| Profession | Philanthropist, Foundation President |
| Marital Status | Married to Howard Schultz since 1982 |
| Children | Two children |
| Nationality | American |
| Residence | Seattle, Washington |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed; shares family wealth with Howard Schultz |
| Foundation | Schultz Family Foundation |
Early Life and Educational Journey
Sheri Kersch Schultz grew up in the American Midwest, a region known for its values of hard work, humility, and community. These core principles played a significant role in shaping her worldview and approach to life. Her early exposure to different social environments gave her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities. Sheri later pursued a bachelor’s degree in Political Science at the University of Denver, where she honed her communication and problem-solving skills. Though she also trained professionally as an interior designer, her passion clearly leaned toward making a social impact, not just aesthetic ones.
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Building a Life With Howard Schultz
Sheri met Howard Schultz in the early 1980s, long before Starbucks became a global phenomenon. Their shared values and mutual respect formed the basis of a lifelong partnership. The couple married in 1982 and faced the uncertainties of building a business together. While Howard led Starbucks to prominence, Sheri stood by his side, offering emotional and strategic support. She was never a passive observer; instead, she played a vital role in shaping Starbucks’ socially responsible culture. Her values became deeply embedded in the company, particularly its commitment to community, equity, and ethical leadership.
A Glimpse at Howard Schultz
To understand Sheri’s influence, it’s essential to briefly look at Howard Schultz’s journey. Born in 1953 in Brooklyn, New York, Howard came from humble beginnings. He famously grew up in public housing and saw firsthand the toll financial instability takes on families. His vision for Starbucks was inspired by a trip to Italy, where he admired the sense of community found in local coffee bars. Howard’s leadership transformed Starbucks into a company known not only for its coffee but also for its people-first approach. Sheri played an influential behind-the-scenes role in keeping that mission alive.
Family Life and Values
Despite their success, Sheri and Howard have always prioritized family. They have two children and have raised them with an emphasis on humility, empathy, and civic responsibility. Sheri made it a point to instill in her children the same values that guided her work: integrity, compassion, and the importance of giving back. The Schultz family is known for maintaining a low profile, preferring meaningful action over media attention. Their family life remains grounded, even as their influence spans across industries and communities.
The Schultz Family Foundation: Purpose and Vision
In 1996, Sheri and Howard co-founded the Schultz Family Foundation with a clear and profound mission: to create greater opportunity and dismantle systemic barriers. The foundation is rooted in the belief that talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. Sheri serves as the President and Co-Chair, and under her leadership, the foundation focuses on two primary groups: Opportunity Youth (young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in school or working) and Post-9/11 veterans. These communities are often overlooked, yet Sheri recognized early on that with the right support, they could thrive and lead positive change.
Programs and Measurable Impact
The Schultz Family Foundation has launched several groundbreaking initiatives under Sheri’s direction. For Opportunity Youth, the foundation partners with companies to provide job training, career pathways, and mental health resources. For veterans, it supports reintegration programs that help with employment, housing, and emotional well-being. A standout initiative is the “Onward Veterans” program, which provides tools and support systems to help veterans successfully transition into civilian life. Sheri’s commitment to long-term, data-driven solutions ensures these programs don’t just treat symptoms—they create sustainable change.
Leadership Style and Influence
Sheri Kersch Schultz embodies a quiet yet impactful leadership style. Unlike many in her position, she avoids the spotlight, choosing instead to lead through collaboration, empathy, and thoughtful listening. Her team at the foundation includes individuals with lived experience, ensuring that programs are informed by those they aim to serve. Sheri demands accountability and measurable results from every initiative, but she leads with heart. Her approach stands in contrast to top-down philanthropy, embracing instead a bottom-up model that values grassroots insight and real-world experience.
Cultural Influence on Starbucks
While Sheri never held an official title at Starbucks, her impact is undeniable. Howard Schultz often credits her with grounding his vision and helping maintain Starbucks’ moral compass. Sheri was a strong proponent of benefits for part-time employees, tuition assistance programs, and ethical sourcing long before they became popular in the corporate world. Her insistence on doing what’s right, even if it wasn’t immediately profitable, helped Starbucks become a brand synonymous with integrity and social responsibility. Her influence extended far beyond the family home and into the heart of the Starbucks mission.
Advocacy, Equity, and Inclusion
More recently, Sheri has been vocal in promoting equity and second chances for all. She supports initiatives that dismantle hiring barriers for formerly incarcerated individuals and works to reform discriminatory hiring practices. She believes economic opportunity must go hand-in-hand with mental health, housing, and education to truly uplift marginalized communities. Sheri also emphasizes intersectionality in philanthropy, understanding that a one-size-fits-all approach won’t solve systemic issues. Her advocacy bridges the gap between policy and people, helping create a more inclusive and just society.
Personal Philosophy and Long-Term Legacy
Sheri’s personal values—compassion, humility, and justice—are woven into everything she does. She has spent decades building a quiet legacy rooted in service and impact. Unlike many who chase recognition, Sheri believes in the power of consistent, behind-the-scenes work. Her foundation’s success is a testament to her long-term vision and dedication. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to lead with empathy and purpose. Her legacy isn’t one of headlines, but of lives changed, opportunities created, and dignity restored.
Final Thoughts
Sheri Kersch Schultz may not seek attention, but her work deserves it. Through the Schultz Family Foundation, she has shown what thoughtful, people-centered philanthropy can achieve. Her influence on Howard Schultz, Starbucks, and broader social change proves that leadership doesn’t require a title—it requires vision, empathy, and resilience. In a world hungry for meaningful change, Sheri offers a model of how compassion, strategy, and commitment can work hand-in-hand to uplift communities. She is not just the force behind a successful man, but a transformative leader in her own right.
FAQs About Sheri Kersch Schultz
1. Who is Sheri Kersch Schultz?
Sheri Kersch Schultz is the co-founder and President of the Schultz Family Foundation and the wife of Starbucks founder Howard Schultz. She is a philanthropist known for her work in youth empowerment and veteran support.
2. What is the mission of the Schultz Family Foundation?
The foundation aims to increase economic opportunity and dismantle systemic barriers for Opportunity Youth and Post-9/11 veterans through collaborative, data-driven programs.
3. How has Sheri influenced Starbucks?
Although not formally involved in Starbucks operations, Sheri helped shape the company’s values around employee benefits, ethical sourcing, and corporate responsibility through her guidance and moral leadership.
4. What leadership style does Sheri embody?
Sheri leads with empathy, collaboration, and strategic thinking. She emphasizes listening to lived experiences and measuring the real-world impact of every initiative.
5. Why is Sheri Kersch Schultz important in philanthropy?
Sheri represents a new kind of philanthropic leader: one who listens, learns, and leads with humility. Her foundation has created meaningful, long-lasting change in the lives of marginalized communities, particularly young people and veterans.
