MURFREESBORO, N.C. – In May 2025, Patrick Mashuda, Associate Vice President for Athletics and Compliance, announced the appointment of Sherry Lewis as the new head coach of the Chowan University women’s flag football team. Lewis will lead the Hawks in the launch of the university’s inaugural women’s flag football program, set to begin competition in the Spring of 2026.

An alumna of Chowan University, Lewis returns to campus with a background in athletics, recreation, and leadership. She began her academic journey at Richard Bland College, where she earned an Associate of Science degree in Liberal Arts in 2011. She then transferred to Chowan University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Sport Studies and Coaching in 2014, followed by a master’s degree in Sports Management from Virginia State University in 2017.

“We welcome Sherry back to campus and are excited to have her lead us into our flag football era,” stated Patrick Mashuda, Associate Vice President for Athletics and Compliance. “Sherry’s personal and professional beliefs align perfectly with our athletic department mission of teaching, serving, and competing.”

She recently served as assistant women’s basketball coach at Richard Bland College, where she oversaw recruiting, game strategy, player development, and academic support. Her professional experience also includes leadership roles with Richmond Parks and Recreation and Prince George County Parks and Recreation, where she was instrumental in planning youth and adult athletic programs, managing facilities and event operations, and mentoring young athletes.

In addition to her coaching and recreation department experiences, Lewis serves as an adjunct instructor with the Sport Studies Department at Virginia State University. She has taught several courses including officiating and flag football. 

“Having Sherry back is a blessing for our department,” stated Meredith Long, Deputy Athletic Director. “As a former two-sport student-athlete at Chowan she understands the landscape and the university well. We look forward to seeing how the experiences she gained while she has been in the field since she graduated will be applied here at Chowan.”  

Lewis was a member of the Chowan Hawks women’s bowling team and the inaugural season of women’s lacrosse (2013). In addition to her work in athletics, Lewis has over a decade of service in the United States Army as a Transportation Management Coordinator. Her military background has equipped her with invaluable skills in logistics, operations management, team coordination, and leadership.