SCOM Alumna Sharon Delaney McCloud Earns Certified Speaking Professional Designation

Posted by Nicole Frossard-Reis on

School of Communication alumna Sharon Delaney McCloud received a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation from the National Speakers Associations after more than 20 years in the communication industry. 

“To me, getting the CSP designation validates all the work that I have done. It shows that I have professionalism and that I’m bringing value,” said McCloud. 

The CSP designation recognizes professional speakers who demonstrate extensive experience and expertise, as well as a commitment to delivering high-quality presentations and workshops. Only 17% of speakers worldwide hold the CSP designation, highlighting the distinction and level of achievement it represents. 

The rigorous and extensive application process required McCloud to document more than 350 speaking engagements over five years and submit videos demonstrating her work; all evaluated anonymously by experienced professional speakers. McCloud compared the process to earning a Michelin star as a chef, where professionals are evaluated on the quality and consistency of their work. 

McCloud said her years of experience in corporate communications, professional development and professional speaking helped shape her expertise and prepared her for the CSP designation. As system director of corporate communications at UNC Health, she delivers about 50 communication workshops each year and helps leaders across the organization communicate more effectively. 

“I love to frame that communication is not a soft skill. It is a power skill because AI cannot replace that,” McCloud said. 

Her work with Walk West, a communication and marketing agency, and the National Speakers Association, a professional organization for speakers and speaking professionals, has also helped her continue developing as a speaker, coach and facilitator. 

Reflecting on her own experiences, McCloud recommends that students and communication professionals document their work and stay involved with FSU even after graduation. 

“You should really document all your work and stay involved with FSU,” said McCloud. “Even after you graduate, there are so many opportunities to continue to be involved as alumni. You gain from helping students who are behind you, helping them learn the craft and helping them find their way.”