Sheryl Lee Ralph is an actress, singer, producer, and activist known for her acclaimed work in television, film, and theater. She first gained national recognition for originating the role of Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of Dreamgirls in 1981, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Ralph has appeared in numerous television series and films, including It's a Living, Moesha, Instant Mom, Motherland: Fort Salem, The Mighty Quinn, and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. Her portrayal of Dee Mitchell on Moesha earned multiple NAACP Image Award nominations and established her as a prominent figure in television. Since 2021, Ralph has starred as veteran teacher Barbara Howard on the ABC comedy series Abbott Elementary. In 2022, she won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, becoming the first Black woman in 35 years to receive the honor in that category. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, and raised between the United States and Jamaica, Ralph is the daughter of college professor Stanley Ralph and fashion designer Ivy Ralph. She graduated from Rutgers University at age 19 with a degree in theater and was recognized early in her career for her exceptional talent on stage. In addition to her entertainment career, Ralph is known for her philanthropic and advocacy work, particularly in health awareness and HIV/AIDS education through her nonprofit organization, the DIVA Foundation. The DIVA Foundation is committed to achieving better health outcomes for all people through innovative Health Awareness programming using the transformative power of the arts and community building. The DIVA Foundation believes we can help others realize healthier and enriched lives if we “dare to care about humanity.”