Thriving Cities Lab Assistant Director
A multidisciplinary professional with a strong academic foundation and a track record of impact at the intersection of civic innovation, human development, and strategic leadership, Sherese Chee Mook is a MEXT and DFID scholar with multiple degrees, including a BA, MA, LLM and MBA. With deep experience as a business consultant, corporate trainer and advisor to C-suite executives across multinational companies and financial institutions, Sherese brings a globally informed, systems-thinking approach to building thriving institutions and communities.
As an Assistant Director and collaborator with the Thriving Cities Lab (TCL) at the University of Virginia’s Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture, Sherese plays a pivotal role in translating TCL’s outreach activities into actionable strategies for civic renewal. In March 2025, Sherese contributed to TCL’s field initiative in Gainesville, Florida, working on the ground with civic leaders to assess community assets and listen to locally grounded interventions. These insights were further shared during TCL’s National Seminar in Virginia (May 2025), where Sherese shared on culturally responsive youth leadership and stakeholder engagement.
With a professional background that spans human resources, project management and organizational strategy, Sherese previously served as Director of HR at the Compathos Foundation, leading recruitment strategies and talent development. She is also an appointed member of the Task Force for Energy Sustainability with the Energy Chamber, where she contributes to policy dialogue and cross-sector initiatives on energy transitions and training initiatives. As a certified mediator and published author of two books, she brings a unique blend of communication skills and insight to every negotiation and dialogue.
Sherese has designed and delivered transformative training programs for youth, entrepreneurs and executives, including a signature LEAP program, helping to build capabilities, align mission with impact and expand opportunity for underrepresented communities. Her approach combines cultural intelligence, business acumen and purposedriven leadership.
At the heart of Sherese’s work is a singular guiding question: What does it mean for a community – or a company – to truly thrive – and how can we shape that future together?
Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Sherese has lived in Guadeloupe, the United Kingdom and Japan. She currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.