35 under 35
Lindsay Fisher Lambda Sigma - Winthrop University
Employee Relations Manager, South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Generosity
Can you share a brief 5-7 sentence biography about yourself, highlight key moments in your career that have shaped who you are today?
Early in my career, I found myself drawn to roles that involved problem-solving, advocacy and mentorship. I quickly realized that Human Resources was the perfect intersection of supporting people and deciphering conundrums. My curiosity grew as I took on opportunities to mediate conflicts, guide employees through challenges, and train leaders how to build productive, positive teams.
Several key experiences have shaped my career. Earning my SHRM-CP certification in 2022 reinforced my dedication to the field, proving to myself that I had the knowledge and expertise to make a meaningful impact. Participating in the South Carolina Department of Human Resources’ mediation training and being nominated for the State of South Carolina’s mediator pool expanded my perspective on conflict resolution and the power of communication in the workplace.
Every day, I get to empower employees, guide leaders and contribute to an environment where people can thrive. While I may not have set out to be an HR professional, I truly believe that HR found me, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the journey.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from this friendship?
I’ve been extremely fortunate to have worked with multiple strong women throughout my career — leaders, mentors and colleagues who have shaped the professional I am today. Each of them has contributed invaluable lessons that continue to guide me, but the three lessons that resonate most are:
Perception is reality – One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned is how people perceive a situation often holds more weight than reality itself. In Human Resources, this is crucial. Whether managing employee relations, navigating workplace conflicts, or leading teams, understanding perception allows me to communicate effectively, build trust and create solutions that truly resonate.
Ask questions – I’ve learned that the smartest person in the room isn’t the one who knows everything, but the one who asks the right questions. I’ve embraced the power of curiosity — seeking to understand different perspectives, learning from others’ experiences and never being afraid to dig deeper. This mindset has made me a stronger leader, a better advocate and a more strategic thinker.
Trust your intuition – Working in HR, I often have to make difficult decisions that affect employees’ careers and well-being. One of the greatest pieces of advice I’ve received is to trust my gut. Whether it’s handling tough conversations, making leadership calls, or standing firm in my values, I’ve learned that intuition, when combined with experience and knowledge, is one of the most powerful tools a leader can have.
The women I’ve had the privilege of learning from have set an incredible example of strength, resilience and leadership. Their mentorship has not only shaped my career but also inspired me to pay it forward — supporting and uplifting those around me just as they did for me.
How did you discover your passion and what opportunities have helped shape your curiosity for what you do?
I’m not sure many people choose Human Resources — it seems to be a path that chooses you. That has certainly been the case for me. My passion for HR wasn’t something I set out to find, rather, it developed organically through my deep-rooted desire to help people and opportunities presented by leaders who saw my potential. Now, I have the privilege of providing opportunities on a large scale every day.
Looking ahead in your career, how do you envision continuing to incorporate generosity into your leadership style and professional endeavors?
I believe generosity is a cornerstone of effective leadership. In my role, generosity is not just about giving, it’s about creating a culture of support, trust and empowerment. I will continue to incorporate generosity into my leadership style and professional endeavors by empowering employees, leading with empathy and fostering growth. I will also always remember that small acts of kindness, support, and investment in others can have a profound impact on individuals, organizations and communities.
How has your community helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
No one achieves success alone, and I am beyond grateful for the community that has supported me along the way. Whether through my sorority, my workplace, or my broader network, I have been fortunate to have incredible people by my side, reminding me that true success is not just about personal achievements, but about the relationships and impact we make on the journey. My community has played a pivotal role in my professional journey, offering support, mentorship and encouragement at every stage. From my sorority sisters to my colleagues and mentors, I have been surrounded by people who have pushed me to grow, challenged me to lead and reminded me of my strength even in the toughest moments.
What does empowerment mean to you, and how have you worked to empower others in your career or personal life?
Empowerment means providing people with the confidence, resources, and opportunities to grow, succeed and take control of their paths. It’s about fostering an environment where individuals feel valued, capable and supported — whether in their careers, personal lives, or community involvement. True empowerment isn’t just about giving people tools, it’s about helping them recognize their potential and encouraging them to step into their strengths. Whether through professional mentorship, leadership development, or community service, I am committed to creating opportunities for others to grow, thrive and make an impact.
What does it mean to you to create an environment of belonging for others, and how do you carry that lesson into your personal and professional life?
Creating an environment of belonging means fostering a space where people feel valued, respected and included — a place where they can show up as their authentic selves without fear of judgment or exclusion. Belonging isn’t just about being present, it’s about feeling seen, heard and appreciated. It’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or experiences, knows they have a place and a purpose. Belonging is about intention and action. It requires creating spaces where people feel valued and ensuring they have opportunities to contribute, grow and connect. Whether in the workplace, my sorority, or my community, I am committed to fostering environments where everyone feels they truly belong.