Alumni of the Month
March 2025
SHERENA ANGELA BLACK
Principal, Production Planning
Class of 2011
Health Assisting
Career
My professional journey has been a dynamic one, driven by a passion for science and a desire to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in healthcare. Following my graduation from Blue Hills Regional, I pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor's degree from Bishop's University and both a graduate certificate and a Master's degree from UMass Lowell. My career began with seven years in GI and dermatology pathology, providing a strong foundation in laboratory practices and diagnostics. From there, I transitioned into leadership roles, directing plasma and microbiome donation centers. This experience honed my management skills and deepened my understanding of the complexities of manufacturing. As I progressed, I discovered a growing fascination with cell and gene therapy, which led me to specialize in program management and business operations within this exciting field, ultimately becoming a Senior Program Manager. Currently, I work as a Principal in Production Planning, leveraging my combined scientific, operational, and strategic expertise to help shape the future of cellular therapeutics.
How BHR prepared Sherena for what she is doing now:
My time at Blue Hills Regional, specifically in the Health Assisting program, was absolutely foundational in preparing me for my current role. It gave me a real head start in my career by providing practical, hands-on experience that I wouldn't have received in a traditional academic setting.
The externships were invaluable. While some were in nursing homes, which provided essential patient care skills, the experiences I had in hospital laboratories were particularly impactful. They exposed me to the inner workings of a clinical lab environment, sparking my initial interest in the more technical and scientific side of healthcare. This early exposure to lab procedures, medical terminology, and the importance of precision and quality control laid the groundwork for my later specialization in areas like pathology and eventually, cell and gene therapy.
Beyond the specific skills, Blue Hills instilled in me a strong work ethic and a practical, problem-solving mindset. The focus on hands-on learning and real-world application made me comfortable with tackling challenges and adapting to different situations – qualities that are critical in my current role as a Principal, Production Planning. Because I had that early experience in a professional setting, I was able to transition more smoothly into the workforce and quickly contribute. Frankly, going to a vocational school like Blue Hills gave me a distinct advantage. It wasn't just about learning theory; it was about learning how to do and applying that knowledge immediately, which has been instrumental in my success.
Sherena was active in:
SkillsUSA
Shotput
Student Council
Book Club
List of Degrees, Certifications and Industry Licenses:
Biology BSc. Minor Psychology
Clinical Pathology Graduate Certificate
Clinical Laboratory Sciences MSc.
Advice to Blue Hills Students:
First, don't underestimate the power of the skills you're learning. Seriously. Whether you're in health assisting, construction, or culinary arts, you're getting hands-on experience that a lot of people don't have until much later in life. Those skills are valuable, and they'll give you a leg up whether you go straight into the workforce or decide to pursue further education. Embrace them, hone them, and be proud of them.
Second, be open to unexpected paths. My career has taken some twists and turns I never anticipated. I started in one area of healthcare, and now I'm doing something completely different but still related. Don't be afraid to explore different options, even if they seem unrelated at first. Your skills are transferable, and you might discover a passion you never knew you had.
Third, networking is key. Talk to your teachers, your mentors, and the people you meet during your co-ops and externships. Build connections. These people can offer guidance, open doors, and even become lifelong friends and colleagues. You never know where a conversation might lead.
Fourth, lifelong learning is real. The world is constantly changing, and you'll need to adapt and learn new things throughout your career. Don't stop learning just because you've finished high school or even college. Be curious, be adaptable, and be willing to embrace new challenges.
Finally, and maybe most importantly, don't be afraid to fail. Everyone makes mistakes. It's how you learn and grow. Don't let fear hold you back from trying new things or pursuing your dreams. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving forward. You've got this! BHR gave you a great foundation – now go out there and make the most of it.
Current Employer
Astellas
Current Job Title
Principal, Production Planning