Margot Lee Shetterly was born on June 4, 1969 in Hampton, Virginia. She grew up surrounded by a culture of science and academia, as her father was a research scientist at NASA-Langley Research Center and her mother was an English professor at Hampton University. Shetterly's upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for knowledge and learning.
After graduating from the University of Virginia, Shetterly pursued a career in investment banking. She worked in the industry for several years, developing valuable skills in finance and business.
Despite her success in investment banking, Shetterly felt a calling to explore other passions. She made the bold decision to shift gears and delve into the world of media startups. This career change opened up new opportunities for Shetterly to follow her creative instincts and pursue her love of storytelling.
In 2013, Shetterly founded The Human Computer Project, a groundbreaking organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of women computers and mathematicians who played pivotal roles at NASA and NACA in the early days of the space program. Through her work with the project, Shetterly shed light on the significant contributions of these unsung heroes in shaping the course of history.
Shetterly's defining moment came with the release of her book "Hidden Figures: The Story of the African-American Women Who Helped Win the Space Race." The book quickly became a sensation, captivating readers with its riveting account of the remarkable achievements of African-American women in the field of space exploration. The success of "Hidden Figures" would later inspire a critically acclaimed film adaptation featuring an all-star cast.
Shetterly's passion for storytelling extended beyond her professional endeavors. Alongside her husband, Aran, she founded Inside Mexico, a newspaper dedicated to highlighting the cultural richness of the country. Shetterly's commitment to sharing diverse stories and perspectives reflected her deep-seated belief in the power of narrative to bridge divides and foster understanding.
Today, Margot Lee Shetterly stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and advocates of social change. Her work has not only brought to light the overlooked contributions of women of color in STEM fields, but has also ignited important conversations about diversity and representation in the media. Through her tireless dedication to amplifying marginalized voices, Shetterly has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape and beyond.
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