Prior to serving the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission as the Director of Enforcement, Sherwood T. Goodenough spent a more than 35-year career in service to the country and his community.
As Senior Policy Analyst in the New Jersey State Legislature, he shaped legislation that delivered meaningful impact for residents across the state. Before that, he worked in the U.S House of Representatives, focusing on immigration justice, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the U.S. State Department. His federal and state work spans prison reform, veterans’ affairs, housing, human services, homeland security, and criminal justice reform. He specialized in legislative development, research, and policy drafting that aligned lawmakers’ priorities to social justice outcomes. Through strategic collaboration and data-informed analysis, he helped advance major statewide legislation addressing issues such as the foreclosure crisis and decarceration.
In addition to public service in federal and state government, the Director also served as a Noncommissioned Officer in the Army National Guard, where he brought a strong public relations and communications background to leading teams of multimedia professionals. In roles that range from supporting Operation Restore Hope in Somalia to hurricane response engagement during Superstorm Sandy, he oversaw public relations efforts that connected mission, message, and audience around the country and the world.
Across both civilian and military roles, he has been driven by a commitment to equity, effective governance, and community-centered solutions. His work reflects a belief that thoughtful policy, clear communication, and strong collaboration with our neighbors are the surest path to justice, equality, and a more perfect union for all.
