As part of the CUNY SPS “Share Your Story” student and alumni series, we are delighted to introduce Sharon Morris, an alum from the CUNY SPS MS in Data Analytics (now MS in Data Science) program. In the Q&A below, Morris describes her career since graduating from CUNY SPS and her recent achievements, which includes winning the CDO Vision Award in January 2026 for her data and AI leadership.
Please tell us a bit about yourself and your work at the U.S. Army CECOM SEC.
I’m the Chief Data & Analytics Officer at the U.S. Army CECOM Software Engineering Center, where I lead enterprise data strategy, governance, and AI innovation. My work focuses on advancing data-driven decision-making, modernizing analytics capabilities, and applying emerging technologies to strengthen Army readiness.
Since graduating from CUNY SPS MS in Data Analytics [now MS in Data Science] program in 2018, I’ve held several roles, including developing the data science practice at PGIM Investments. I also teach data science at several universities. I live in New York City, am an avid world traveler, and am currently a doctoral candidate at Georgetown University’s School of Engineering & Applied Science, studying Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence.
Congrats also on your Vision Award! Can you describe what the award is and what led you to win it?
This award honors professionals who are driving innovation, advancing responsible AI practices, and shaping the future of data and analytics across industries. Here is the link to the announcement.
Why did you choose CUNY SPS and your program here?
I chose CUNY SPS after considering several other programs because I believed it would help me develop applied, rather than purely theoretical, data analytics skills, and it did. The program’s guided, self-directed structure allowed me to learn and discover simultaneously, building both confidence and practical expertise.
As you look back at your experience at CUNY SPS, what would you say were (or are) some of the defining aspects of your time here?
Some of the defining aspects of the program were the instructors. Because they were active professionals in the field, they made sure we learned the skills that truly matter on the job. I remember one instructor emphasizing the importance of mastering GitHub and cloud platforms, areas she felt were missing from her own academic experience and wanted to ensure we were prepared for the real world.
What skills did you acquire that will help you in your career?
The most important skill I gained was learning how to independently find answers when faced with challenging assignments. That ability to self-learn and problem-solve has been invaluable in the workforce. I also built a strong foundation in the core languages of data science SQL, R, and Python, and developed practical skills in data visualization that I use every day.
How are you applying your degree toward your career?
I’ve used my degree as a foundation to continue my education at George Washington University, where I’m now pursuing a doctorate. It also opened the door for me to teach data science at the university level and to keep growing both professionally and academically.
How has CUNY SPS influenced your current job, and your career overall?
CUNY SPS influenced my current role and overall career by giving me with the skills and resources to get the job done. More importantly, it gave me the confidence to know that I can figure things out, no matter how complex the challenge.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In the next five years, I see myself speaking at conferences, sharing insights on data and AI, and transitioning further into academia to continue teaching, mentoring, and advancing research in the field.
About the CUNY School of Professional Studies
As New York's leading online school since 2006, the CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) offers the most online bachelor's and master's degree options at the City University of New York, and serves as the University's first undergraduate all-transfer college. With over 26 degrees and numerous other non-degree and grant-funded workplace learning programs, CUNY SPS meets the needs of adults who wish to finish a bachelor's degree, progress from an associate's degree, earn a master's degree or certificate in a specialized field, and advance in the workplace or change careers. Consistently ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report for its online offerings, CUNY SPS has emerged as a nationwide leader in online education. The School's renowned and affordable online programs ensure that busy working adults may fulfill their educational goals on their own time and schedule.
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