Sharon Epperson is a name synonymous with financial journalism. As CNBC’s Senior Personal Finance Correspondent, she has spent decades breaking down complex financial topics into digestible insights for millions of viewers. Whether it’s retirement planning, wealth management, or debt reduction, Epperson’s expertise has helped individuals make informed financial decisions.
Born on April 12, 1968, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Sharon’s journey to becoming a leading voice in personal finance was shaped by her academic excellence, professional dedication, and passion for financial literacy. Over the years, she has contributed to major publications, authored books, and earned prestigious awards for her work. Beyond her career, Sharon is a wife, mother, and educator, balancing her personal and professional life with grace.
Early Life & Background
Sharon was born into a family that valued education and social impact. Her father, David E. Epperson, was a trailblazer in academia, serving as the Dean of the School of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh for nearly 30 years. He was also the first African-American dean at the institution, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and advocacy. She was born on April 12, 1968, and her current age is 56 years old.
Her mother, Cecelia T. Epperson, was a dedicated schoolteacher in the Pittsburgh Public School System, shaping young minds at Lincoln Elementary School. Sharon’s upbringing was deeply influenced by her parents’ commitment to education, social justice, and community service. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Sharon was surrounded by a supportive family that encouraged her to pursue excellence. She also has a sister, Lia Epperson, who followed a path of advocacy, becoming a civil rights lawyer and law professor at American University Washington College of Law.
Education & Academic Achievements
Sharon’s early exposure to journalism and academia played a crucial role in shaping her career. At just 18 years old, she interned at the Pittsburgh Press Library Department, gaining firsthand experience in the world of media. Sharon attended Harvard University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Government. Her time at Harvard was marked by academic excellence and leadership.
She also became a member of the Lambda Upsilon chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, an organization dedicated to community service and empowerment. After Harvard, Sharon continued her education at Columbia University, where she obtained a Master’s degree in International Affairs. Since 2000, she has served as an adjunct instructor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, sharing her expertise with aspiring professionals.
Sharon Epperson Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sharon Emily Epperson |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1968 |
| Age | 56 years old |
| Birthplace | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Education | Harvard University (Bachelor’s in Sociology and Government), Columbia University (Master’s in International Affairs), Honorary Doctorate from Carlow University |
| Profession | Journalist, CNBC Senior Personal Finance Correspondent |
| Spouse | Christopher John Farley (m. 1997) |
| Children | Two |
| Parents | David Epperson (Father), Cecelia Epperson (Mother) |
| Siblings | Lia Epperson (Sister) |
| Height | 172 cm (1.72 m / 5’8”) |
| Weight | 56 kg |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Books | “The Big Payoff: 8 Steps Couples Can Take to Make the Most of Their Money—and Live Richly Ever After” |
| Awards | Silver World Medal (1999), Gracie Allen Award (2001), Trailblazer of the Year Award (2003), All-Star Award (2003) |
| Net Worth | Approximately $5 million USD |
| Current Residence | Westchester County, New York, USA |
| Wikipedia | @Sharon_Epperson |
| @sharoneppersoncnbc/ |
Early Career and Journalism Foundations
Epperson’s journey in journalism began with contributions to well-known publications that helped shape her understanding of the industry. She wrote for The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Essence, and USA Weekend, delivering insightful coverage on various topics. Her ability to explain complex financial matters in a way that resonated with everyday readers made her stand out early in her career.
Epperson’s journalism career was built on a foundation of thorough research and dedication to accuracy. She developed strong storytelling skills and an ability to translate financial jargon into easily digestible content. This commitment to clarity and precision would later prove invaluable as she took on greater roles in financial reporting.
Joining CNBC and Career Milestones
In 1996, Sharon joined CNBC, marking a significant turning point in her career. Initially, she worked as a senior energy correspondent, covering the commodities market directly from the New York Mercantile Exchange. Reporting on oil and gas trading required an in-depth understanding of market fluctuations, global economics, and investor sentiment. Epperson’s ability to analyze and present this information with clarity made her a trusted voice in energy reporting.
Her role at CNBC was dynamic, involving real-time analysis and interviews with key industry players. She provided viewers with insights into how geopolitical events impacted oil prices and how commodity trends influenced global markets. This experience strengthened her expertise in finance, preparing her for a transition into a broader and more impactful role.
Transition to Personal Finance Journalism
As her career progressed, Epperson transitioned from covering energy markets to personal finance—a move that allowed her to connect more directly with audiences seeking financial guidance. Understanding that finance is a critical part of everyday life, she took on the challenge of breaking down complex financial topics into actionable insights for viewers.
Her role as CNBC’s Senior Personal Finance Correspondent gave her a platform to educate millions on retirement planning, wealth management, and debt reduction strategies. She became a leading voice in financial literacy, helping individuals make informed decisions about their financial future. Epperson’s reporting extended beyond CNBC, with her work featured on NBC News, the Today Show, and NBC Nightly News.
Author and Educator
Sharon has established herself not only as a financial journalist but also as a respected author and educator. Her commitment to financial literacy is reflected in her book, “The Big Payoff: 8 Steps Couples Can Take to Make the Most of Their Money—and Live Richly Ever After.” This book provides practical financial advice for couples looking to build wealth, manage money effectively, and secure their financial future together.
Beyond authorship, Epperson has played a significant role in education. Since 2000, she has served as an adjunct instructor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. In this role, she mentors aspiring financial professionals, teaching courses that focus on economic policy and personal finance. Her ability to simplify complex financial concepts makes her a sought-after educator, and she continues to inspire the next generation of financial experts.
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Recognitions and Awards
Epperson’s contributions to financial journalism have earned her several prestigious awards over the years. In 1999, she was honored with the Silver World Medal from the New York Festivals, an international television programming competition. This award highlighted her excellence in broadcasting and her ability to present financial news in a compelling way.
In 2001, she received the Gracie Allen Award from the Foundation of American Women in Radio and Television. This award is given to outstanding women in media who make significant contributions to their field. Epperson’s ability to educate and empower audiences through her reporting made her a deserving recipient.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Sharon has built an impressive career in financial journalism, which has contributed to her estimated net worth of approximately five million dollars. Her success in the industry is a result of her expertise, credibility, and ability to simplify financial concepts for a broad audience. She has spent decades working in media, writing books, and educating the public on financial literacy, all of which have played a role in her financial standing.
As CNBC’s Senior Personal Finance Correspondent, Epperson has covered topics ranging from retirement planning to wealth management and budgeting strategies. Her ability to present financial news in an accessible way has made her a trusted resource for viewers looking for practical financial advice. She has also earned income from speaking engagements, book royalties, and educational contributions, further solidifying her financial success.
Personal Life and Family
Epperson is happily married to Christopher John Farley, an award-winning journalist and author. The couple tied the knot in 1997 and have built a life together, balancing their professional careers with family responsibilities. Farley, known for his work in journalism and as a writer, shares Epperson’s passion for storytelling and communication. Together, they support each other in their respective fields while also raising a family.
Epperson and Farley have two children, and she often speaks about the importance of financial education within families. Her work in financial journalism has allowed her to integrate practical money management strategies into her own household, ensuring that financial literacy is a key part of her family’s life.
Physical Attributes
Sharon maintains a professional presence with a confident and approachable demeanor. She stands at approximately 172 centimeters, which is equivalent to 1.72 meters or 5 feet 8 inches. Her height complements her strong presence on television, where she delivers financial insights with clarity and authority.
She weighs around 56 kilograms, reflecting a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Her black hair and brown eyes add to her distinguished look, making her a recognizable figure in the world of financial journalism. While physical attributes do not define a person’s career, Epperson’s polished and professional appearance has contributed to her ability to connect with audiences and establish credibility in her field.
Public Speaking
Over the years, Sharon has become a highly sought-after public speaker, delivering keynote addresses and panel discussions at financial conferences and industry events. Her expertise in personal finance has made her a valuable voice for organizations looking to educate individuals on managing their money effectively.
Epperson has appeared as a financial expert on various media outlets beyond CNBC, including NBC News, the Today Show, and NBC Nightly News. Through these appearances, she has provided insightful analysis on financial trends, economic shifts, and practical money management strategies. Her ability to simplify complex financial concepts has made her a trusted figure in personal finance journalism.
Philanthropy and Social Contributions
Epperson has always been passionate about education, financial literacy, and community engagement. She has participated in various charitable initiatives aimed at helping individuals build financial security and understand money management principles. Her contributions extend beyond journalism, as she actively works to ensure financial education is accessible to diverse communities.
Epperson has supported organizations dedicated to financial empowerment, particularly those that assist underprivileged individuals in making informed financial decisions. She has also worked with educational institutions to promote financial literacy programs that help students prepare for their financial futures.
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