Job: Division chief, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

At work: I lead the humanitarian benefits division of the Administrative Appeals Office at USCIS.

Volunteer activities: I have volunteered for several charitable and educational organizations since returning to Hampton Roads after law school, including: Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters; Old Dominion University Women’s Initiative Network; Team Hoyt VB; UVA Jefferson Scholars Foundation; Volunteer Hampton Roads; Edmarc Hospice for Children; Virginia Beach SPCA; Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art; and the Virginia Aquarium.

Home and family: I am a graduate of Cox High School, the University of Virginia, Ohio Northern University (J.D.) and Old Dominion University (master’s in taxation). I grew up in Virginia Beach and raised my children there. I recently moved to Norfolk. I am fortunate to have my older son and daughter-in-law, both Cox High School graduates and recent graduates of Virginia Tech, living nearby. My younger son, a Cape Henry Collegiate graduate, is a midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy. My golden retriever enjoys exploring her new neighborhood in East Beach.

Motivating factor: At work, helping others succeed gives me a strong sense of purpose and reinforces my commitment to service-oriented leadership. At home, providing a safe space for my children to grow and thrive is my guiding motivation. In the community, making a positive difference in the lives of others and contributing to the well-being of my hometown brings me immense joy.

Advice for women in business: Stay grounded in your mission. In public service especially, remembering why you do the work you do can provide focus and motivation during challenging periods. Seek stretch opportunities. Public service offers unique opportunities to lead initiatives. Volunteer for roles that expand your experience, expose you to leadership and build new skills. Mentor others and let yourself be mentored. Mentoring and supporting others strengthens the organizations you serve and having a mentor accelerates your own growth.

Downtime: Attending college football games (currently rooting for ODU, UVA and Navy); movies (I try to watch all of the Oscar-nominated movies before the broadcast each year); reading (with my Oceanfront book club); fantasy football (with my long-running women’s league); church; yoga; running; concerts; travel; cooking; and spending time with family and friends.

https://www.dailypress.com/2025/12/15/women-in-business-2025-kieran-sherlock-poulos/