DeShara Doub
NCHS CLASS OF 2006
In today’s post, we recognize DeShara C. Doub, a passionate advocate for celebrating and preserving African American history and culture. Thanks to her early leadership roles at North Central, DeShara’s commitment to service and advocacy has earned her national recognition and shaped her path as a Doctoral candidate in Social Work. Through scholarship, mentorship, and community engagement, she continues to honor Black heritage and inspire future generations.
This Juneteenth, we’re proud to highlight DeShara’s extraordinary journey and commitment to illuminating the stories of African American triumph and resilience.
Q&A
What are you up to now?
Lately, I’ve been diving even deeper into my lifelong passion for Black history and culture. It’s truly the thread that runs through everything I do. I’ve always been drawn to stories that celebrate Black excellence, resilience, and legacy. This love has taken me to more than 50 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across 12 states and D.C., and I’m still adding to the list. From Black Wall Street in Tulsa OK to Juneteenth’s birthplace in Galveston TX, I’ve made it a mission to stand where history happened and honor the people who shaped it.
This passion started right here in Indianapolis. As a kid, I was introduced to Swahili, Kwanzaa, and African dance. I was involved with the Indiana Black Expo’s Youth Video Institute, never missed a Circle City Classic (my favorite was the parade and Battle of the Bands), and had unforgettable visits to the Madame Walker Theatre. These experiences sparked something in me, leading to a minor in Pan-African Studies and studying abroad at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago. Most recently, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Ghana, an experience that deepened my connection to the African diaspora in ways I’m still unpacking.
Now, I’m channeling all of that into my doctoral work as I pursue a Ph.D. in Social Work. My research centers on honoring and amplifying Black voices, and I’ve been fortunate to receive a few humbling recognitions along the way: the 2024 Emerging Leader Award from the University of Louisville, the 2022 “Up & Coming” achiever from the Center for Leadership Development, and the 2021 ‘Way to Go Woman’ in Leadership honor from Today’s Woman Magazine. I’ve also been honored with the Kentucky Senate recognition for leadership and a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives for outstanding service to the community.
I stay grounded in my Indianapolis roots, serving on the alumni committee for Washington Township Schools Foundation, and a long-time facilitator for the Center for Leadership Development’s Self-Discovery/Career Exploration and College Prep programs. Also, as a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., founded at Butler University, I stay connected to a legacy of sisterhood, service, and scholarship.
So, what am I up to now? Still learning, still exploring, and still committed to honoring the brilliance of Black history and culture in the classroom, in the community, and around the world.
How did North Central impact and shape who you are today?
Looking back, my time at North Central was truly foundational to the person I am today. It wasn’t just a place where I went to class, but where I discovered my voice, my passions, and a deep sense of purpose. The diversity of people, programs, and perspectives gave me space to grow and explore so many sides of myself.
Being involved in the performing arts taught me discipline and the importance of showing up, not just for myself, but for a team. Through Ladies First, I found early opportunities to lead and create meaningful spaces where young women like me felt seen and supported. Helping to plan Junior Prom taught me how to stay organized under pressure (a skill I lean on to this day!) and serving as a football manager gave me firsthand experience in juggling multiple responsibilities while still being a team player.
More than anything, North Central gave me the confidence to lead, serve, and dream big. It helped ignite my passion for advocacy and community engagement, something that continues to shape every step of my journey.
WHAT IS your favorite memory from North Central?
It’s hard to choose just one favorite memory from North Central because I was involved in so much. From playing in concert band, performing with the Panther Marching Band, and singing in Allegros and Northernairs, these moments still give me such a strong sense of community and pride.
But if I had to pick one that really stands out, it would be Ladies First. Being a founding member of that group was incredibly empowering. We weren’t just creating a club; we were building a space where young women could uplift and support each other. Seeing the impact it had, even back then, still means so much to me.
Another favorite moment was discovering my voice (literally) as a radio host through the J. Everett Light Career Center’s Radio/TV program. That experience led to interning with Radio One, which was a huge deal and a major step in my journey.
North Central gave me the freedom to try new things, grow as a leader, and create memories I’ll always carry with me. Special shout out to the Class of ’06!
Connect with DeShara
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desharacdoub/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desharacdoub/
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