Learn how compassion is at the forefront of Sharon Hensley’s leadership. Credit: SDL | Allison Bills
Sharon Hensley brings a human side to SDL’s instrumental work through her compassionate leadership. According to business scholars Banker and Bahl (2018), compassionate leadership is an interpersonal process that takes noticing, feeling, sense-making, and acting that alleviates the suffering of others. Sharon exudes these skills with her “warm hug” approach to employees, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and empowered through their work and personal life. I know our heavenly father loves you and me. Influencing with Head and Heart
With her natural affinity for people, Sharon thrives as a Senior HR Specialist. In her role, she oversees programs in employee relations and staff development. She’s managed our employee benefits program, ensuring it is accessible, innovative, and inclusive for all. Additionally, she helps discover top talent to support our customer’s needs, and provides advice and counsel to employees, HR staff, and leaders. Sharon fosters a culture that supports mission success by setting the tone through her work and interactions. “It matters to me that my work makes a meaningful difference for employees,” she said.
Sharon embraces the importance of her HR role and works to balance employee needs and organizational priorities. “I keep my door open. I enjoy being there for employees and discussing benefits, tuition assistance, relations, training, and professional development. I meet them where they are at, and I like to extend good-faith trust.” Employees not only see Sharon’s actions, but they also feel them. Her contemplative, curious, compassionate, and courageous leadership draws people to her and has engendered the staff’s trust and respect Lab wide.
Leaning Into Learning and Mentorship
A compassionate advocate for continued learning and mentorship, Sharon believes, “It’s never too late to learn or pursue your goals.” She has a soft spot for individuals who, like herself, begin school later in life. She was the first in her family to attend college and complete a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s in human resources, all while working and being mentored. “I'm inspired by her dedication to continuous learning. She’s always looking for ways to improve and grow and we’re fortunate to have her!” said Sharon’s mentor, Melanie Pond.
“One of the coolest parts of leadership is being around long enough to see team members move from mentee to mentor,” described HR Director Sharon Giles. That’s precisely what is happening with Sharon. Over the past 12 months, she has taken on a mentorship role. She successfully transitioned benefit responsibilities to two junior HR staff with her classic professionalism and efficacy. “She has a wealth of HR knowledge and is an awesome mentor!” said mentee Dee Dee Oleszczuk. As Sharon mentors and passes on knowledge and responsibility to colleagues, her legacy of kindness, dedication, and excellence continues to shape SDL’s culture.
Awarded for Excellence
On February 13, 2025, Sharon was awarded the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Bridgerland Chapter 2024 HR Leader of the Year, which recognizes human resources leaders in Cache Valley, Utah, who have made outstanding contributions to their organization and who exemplify HR’s increasingly strategic role in business. Most notably, Sharon was awarded for her achievements in implementing a comprehensive wellness program that has boosted employees’ well-being and productivity.
Distilling Advice
Sharon’s humility and vulnerability are hallmarks of her compassionate leadership. She knows that life is difficult and there are “speedbumps along the way.” When asked what advice she would give professionals about being a great colleague, she said, “Showing up for others in the workplace goes beyond just doing your job well—it’s about building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating a supportive environment. It’s about being intentional. Lean on your team, stay curious, and never underestimate the impact of kindness and integrity on your work. When you show up with respect, empathy, and integrity, you contribute to a healthier, more productive workplace.”
