Name:		Ms. Sharon Joseph
		Month:		June/July 2007
		Schools:		Tufts BA 1992 Columbia Business School MBA 1997
		Organization:		Harlem Lanes
		Title:		CEO

Sharon, worked on Wall Street for nearly a decade (advising wealthy individuals and institutions) when a passion for entrepreneurship and deep family roots in Harlem led to a desire to play a role in the revitalization of the historic neighborhood. Sharon joined forces with her aunt, Gail Richards, to make history by introducing Harlem Lanes, a premier entertainment destination for family and friends to eat, drink and have fun. Sharon leveraged her private banking and consulting relationships to raise $5 million to build Harlem Lanes. Harlem Lanes is the country's first black women-built and owned Bowling Alley and the first bowling alley in Harlem in 30 years. Harlem Lanes is a 25,000 sq. feet entertainment duplex, featuring 24 lanes, café, an upscale sports bar, VIP lounge, a private children's party room and arcade. In addition to providing corporate and children's parties, she has partnered with local programs to use bowling to teach math and fight obesity in children in Harlem.

Sharon obtained a Bachelors of Art degree from Tufts University and a MBA from Columbia Business School. She is a speaker and advisor in the Columbia Business School entrepreneurship program. Sharon is very active in the Harlem Business Community. She is an executive board member for the Women's Alliance of Harlem and a member of Pres. Clinton's Urban Initiative Program (On March 11, Pres. Clinton helped Sharon cut the ribbons for Harlem Lanes). She currently in the process of raising money to open five new locations.