Sharon Wilton has always been interested in serving others and giving back to her community.
Even as a young adolescent, serving and helping others captivated her attention after seeing first-hand the difference a person could make.
“My family suffered a tragic loss in my childhood,” Wilton recalled. “My father died at the age of 40, leaving my mother with two small children. We saw our mother crying for help and wondered ‘Why aren’t people helping her?’ “I’ve been on a mission since I was a kid. I wanted to help people find the help they needed.”
Those life goals have given Wilton a chance to be impactful throughout her community, while also causing her to gain recognition for her effort. Recently, Wilton was honored by the
Port Huron Chapter of the National Association of Career Women (NACW) as the 2024 Woman of the Year.
“I have known Sharon for a while and we have been networking and volunteering together for a really long time,” says Tracy Willard, co-founder and executive director of
Hunter Hospitality House.
“One thing I absolutely love about her is even though she is super busy, she will send so many positive messages to people whether it's Facebook posts or sharing posts to encourage you. She is just all about relationships. She loves everyone. Everyone says it is her best trait. I thought this was very well deserved. Everyone is glad when she walks in the room.”
The Woman of the Year award was created to celebrate women with professional accomplishments and character who embody the highest standards and reflect their dedication, growth, and commitment.
A press release sent out by the NACW says: “Wilton’s colleagues and peers recognize her for her remarkable achievements, her resilience, and her dedication to empowering others, demonstrating generosity, kindness, and boundless energy to uplift those around her. Sharon's career journey is a testament to perseverance and community service.
“As the Administrator and Event Coordinator for the Blue Water Chamber of Commerce, Sharon has driven local economic growth and supported countless small businesses. Her previous roles as Community Development Director for Fort Gratiot Township, Development Manager for the March of Dimes, and Community Representative for the American Cancer Society in St. Clair County illustrate her lifelong commitment to public service and community health.”
In many ways, those words embody Wilton’s career and personality as a mentor and public servant.
“To be recognized by the community members is very special,” Wilton says. “I have three daughters and I have always tried to instill in them the need to give back. My youngest two daughters spent time working on a special project at the United Way Neighborhood Cleanup where we went into the community with people of other demographics.
“This helped them understand that it’s always great to give back and help others. I think unless you go out and see the people in need you don’t know what exists. Not just Christmas or holidays, but year-round.”
In addition to the Woman of the Year award, Wilton previously received the United Way Campaign Champion Award in 2021. In 2022, she was a finalist for the Eddy Award with the
Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Port Huron Northern High School graduate earned a bachelor’s degree and an MBA with a Human Resource major from Baker College. Wilton also has an associate's degree from St. Clair County Community College. She is also the Board Chair for Port Huron Museums and the Volunteer Coordinator at the Blue Water Recovery Outreach Center.
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