Sheri Kersch Schultz may be best known as the wife of Howard Schultz, former CEO and chairman emeritus of Starbucks. But anyone who takes a closer look quickly realizes she is so much more than that. Sheri is a powerhouse in her own right—a thoughtful, compassionate leader and philanthropist who has spent decades working to create opportunity for underserved communities. From empowering young people to helping veterans transition back into civilian life, Sheri has consistently pushed for systemic change through smart, hands-on giving.
Her work, much of which she conducts behind the scenes, speaks volumes about her character. With the Schultz Family Foundation, she has championed causes that reflect her deep empathy, focus on equity, and belief that real impact comes from listening and collaboration. This article dives into Sheri’s life, mission, and legacy—and why she deserves recognition far beyond her association with a global coffee empire.
Quick Bio Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sheri Kersch Schultz |
| Known For | Philanthropy, Co-founder of Schultz Foundation |
| Education | B.A. in Political Science, University of Denver |
| Early Career | Interior Designer |
| Marital Status | Married to Howard Schultz (since 1982) |
| Children | Two |
| Organization | Schultz Family Foundation |
| Primary Focus Areas | Youth, Veterans, Equity, Mental Health |
| Residence | United States |
| Public Presence | Private, low-profile |
| Estimated Net Worth | Undisclosed (shares wealth with husband) |
Early Life and Educational Background
Sheri Kersch Schultz was born and raised in the American Midwest—a part of the country known for its sense of community, resilience, and strong moral values. These values shaped her early worldview and eventually laid the foundation for her philanthropic mindset. She attended the University of Denver, earning a degree in political science. That education, paired with her natural empathy and communication skills, gave her a solid base for the community-focused work she would later champion.
After college, Sheri pursued a career as an interior designer. While she thrived in the creative world, her heart was always pulled toward helping people. That passion simmered quietly in the background until she and her husband reached a point in their lives where they could dedicate real resources and time to meaningful social impact.
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A Lifelong Partnership: Meeting Howard Schultz
Sheri met Howard Schultz in the early 1980s, before Starbucks was a household name. At the time, Howard was just beginning his journey in the coffee business, filled with ambition but far from certain success. Their early relationship was built on shared values—integrity, respect, and a desire to do more than just make money.
The couple married in 1982 and have since built not only a family but a unified vision for giving back. Sheri played a critical, though often quiet, role in supporting Howard’s mission at Starbucks. She helped him stay grounded, encouraged him to make employee-focused decisions, and brought a community-centric perspective to their shared journey.
Creating the Schultz Family Foundation
In 1996, after Starbucks had achieved significant growth, Sheri and Howard co-founded the Schultz Family Foundation. The idea was simple but powerful: use their success to help others, particularly those often left behind by traditional systems. Sheri took on the role of President and Co-Chair, becoming the driving force behind the foundation’s programs and partnerships.
Their mission centers on unlocking potential and removing barriers for marginalized groups. The foundation has a particular focus on two populations: “Opportunity Youth”—young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in school or working—and post-9/11 military veterans facing challenges as they re-enter civilian life. Sheri’s commitment to these causes stems from a deep belief that talent is evenly distributed in society, but opportunity is not.
Major Programs and Impact
Under Sheri’s leadership, the Schultz Family Foundation has become a model for impact-driven philanthropy. Its programs don’t just hand out resources; they build sustainable solutions through collaboration with nonprofits, businesses, and policymakers. Initiatives like Onward Youth and the Veterans Pathways Program have provided education, job training, mental health support, and housing assistance to thousands.
What sets Sheri apart is her insistence on data, results, and real feedback. She emphasizes working with those who have lived experience in the issues being addressed. This not only builds trust but ensures that solutions are practical, respectful, and scalable. The foundation’s track record of measurable outcomes reflects Sheri’s belief in doing philanthropy the right way.
Behind the Scenes but Leading the Way
Sheri Kersch Schultz is not your typical philanthropic figure. She doesn’t seek out stages, cameras, or media coverage. Instead, she operates with quiet resolve, letting her actions do the talking. Her leadership style is grounded in humility and empathy, but make no mistake—she is a strategic thinker with high standards.
Colleagues and partners often describe her as a strong listener who insists on excellence and accountability. Her approach combines compassion with pragmatism, resulting in programs that truly make a difference. Sheri believes that to bring lasting change, you have to dig deep, listen well, and commit for the long haul.
Shaping Starbucks’ Culture Indirectly
While Sheri never held an official role at Starbucks, her influence on the company’s culture is widely acknowledged. Howard Schultz has credited her with shaping many of the company’s employee-first values and socially responsible practices. Benefits like health insurance for part-time workers and tuition reimbursement reflect her influence.
Sheri encouraged Howard to build a company that could be profitable while still serving a larger purpose. Her steady voice in the background helped create a business that put people first—a rarity in corporate America. Many of the principles Starbucks is now known for were shaped in part by Sheri’s moral compass.
Advocating for Equity and Second Chances
In recent years, Sheri has taken on a more public role in advocating for systemic change. She supports second-chance hiring practices that give formerly incarcerated individuals a path to employment and dignity. She also speaks out on racial equity, mental health, and the need for comprehensive reform in how opportunity is distributed.
Through the foundation, she has championed hiring reforms, policy changes, and community programs that address the root causes of inequality. Her focus is not just on providing temporary support but on reshaping systems so that everyone—regardless of background—has a fair shot at success.
A Grounded Family Life
Despite their wealth and public influence, Sheri and Howard Schultz have always maintained a grounded family life. They raised two children with strong values centered on humility, gratitude, and social responsibility. Sheri is known for prioritizing her family even while leading major philanthropic efforts.
The Schultzes have modeled what it looks like to be both successful and deeply compassionate. Their children have grown up seeing not just what money can buy, but what it can do. Sheri’s legacy within her family is one of kindness, conviction, and action.
Legacy and Lasting Influence
Sheri Kersch Schultz’s impact may not make daily headlines, but it is felt in the lives of thousands of people across the U.S. Her legacy is one of deep commitment to justice, equality, and opportunity. Through the Schultz Family Foundation, she has created pathways for those who might otherwise have been left behind.
Her leadership reminds us that change doesn’t always need a spotlight. Sometimes, the most powerful figures are the ones working quietly behind the scenes, lifting others up and clearing the way. Sheri’s life is a testament to what can happen when compassion meets strategic action.
Final Thoughts
Sheri Kersch Schultz proves that you don’t need to be in the spotlight to make a massive difference. Her work with the Schultz Family Foundation has helped rewrite the future for countless individuals, all while staying grounded in empathy, listening, and equity. She embodies what it means to use privilege for purpose and influence for impact.
In a world full of noise and self-promotion, Sheri stands out for her clarity, integrity, and unwavering commitment to social good. Her story is more than inspiring—it’s a roadmap for anyone who wants to make real, lasting change.
FAQs About Sheri Kersch Schultz
1. Who is Sheri Kersch Schultz?
Sheri Kersch Schultz is a philanthropist and co-founder of the Schultz Family Foundation. She is also the wife of Howard Schultz, former CEO of Starbucks. She is known for her work in youth empowerment, veteran support, and social equity.
2. What is the Schultz Family Foundation?
Founded in 1996 by Sheri and Howard Schultz, the foundation focuses on creating opportunities for underserved groups, particularly young people and veterans. It supports programs related to education, employment, mental health, and equity.
3. How has Sheri influenced Starbucks?
While not officially involved in the company, Sheri played a critical role in shaping its values. Howard Schultz has credited her with encouraging Starbucks to prioritize people over profits, leading to benefits like healthcare for part-time workers.
4. What causes does she support?
Sheri supports second-chance hiring, racial equity, youth job training, veteran reintegration, and mental health initiatives. Her work is focused on systemic change and empowering those left out by traditional systems.
5. Is Sheri Kersch Schultz active in the public eye?
No, Sheri generally maintains a private profile. She prefers to work behind the scenes and let the results of her work speak for themselves, although she has recently taken a more active role in advocacy and public speaking.
