Monroe Made: Joe Sherlin

For Joe Sherlin, a 1985 graduate of Sweetwater High School, the values instilled in Monroe County have shaped both his personal journey and his professional calling. Now serving as Senior Vice President for Student Life and Enrollment at East Tennessee State University, Sherlin’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to education with roots that trace directly back to his hometown.

Sherlin describes his Monroe County education as a blessing grounded in strong community support. Growing up in Sweetwater, he experienced firsthand the pride that defines small-town life. “A small town is a close-knit community,” he says. “I appreciated all those teachers and school leaders who cared about us, challenged us, and encouraged us to work hard and go after our goals.” That encouragement didn’t end at graduation; it became a foundation. Sherlin credits Monroe County Schools with preparing him to pursue further learning and to continue striving toward his goals.

The influence of his teachers and mentors left a lasting mark. Among many impactful educators, one stands out: his high school French teacher, Ms. Shope. Her classroom was a place of creativity and discovery, where students learned French through songs, culture, art, and even adopted French names. “Those classes really opened my eyes to a wider world,” Sherlin recalls. The experience was made even more memorable by a unique twist: Ms. Shope was also his sister. “I worked hard in that class… because I knew she would let my parents know if I caused trouble,” he jokes. “Thankfully, she didn’t!”

Education runs deep in Sherlin’s family, with parents, siblings, and his spouse all serving as educators. Continuing that legacy has been one of his proudest accomplishments. Through his leadership role at ETSU, he has the opportunity to support students and families as they navigate their educational journeys. For Sherlin, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing students succeed. “It is a great feeling to see students graduate and go out into the world and pursue careers that help and serve others,” he says.

Carrying forward the lessons and values he gained in Monroe County, Sherlin continues to make an impact on students’ lives every day, while proudly remembering his roots as a Wildcat. Joe Sherlin represents the heart of what it means to be Monroe Made.