A native of Marksville, Louisiana, Brigadier General Sherian Grace Cadoria left the cotton fields to meet unique challenges during a 29-year distinguished military career. Upon her retirement, General Cadoria was the senior black female in the U.S. Armed forces and one of only four female Army generals.

She was the Deputy Commanding General and Director of Mobilization and Operations of the Total Army Personnel Agency in Alexandria, Virginia. She served in Vietnam from January 1967 to October 1969 and has held key assignments with the joint Chiefs of Staff, the Law Enforcement Division and the Criminal Investigation Command. During this time, she earned a Master of Arts degree in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma. In 1985 she was promoted to Brigadier General.

General Cadoria retired November 30, 1990, and returned to her home state to care for an ill family member. As a civilian, she shares her leadership skills in many community, state and national boards and activities. She has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Black Business and Professional Women, and as one of 75 Black Women Who Helped Change History in the "I Dream a World" photo exhibit. She has also received the NAACP's Roy Wilkens Meritorious Service Award.

Her numerous career accomplishments, sense of humor and willingness to share personal experiences have made her a much sought after keynote/inspirational/motivational speaker. She is President of her own company and is currently serving as a volunteer Principal of Marksville Catholic School.

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