Since joining the faculty, Dr. Fears has participated twice in the Howard University Junior Faculty Summer Writing and Creative Works Academy, in the Workshop for Early Career Theological School Faculty, and in the Design Thinking for Religious & Theological Educators sponsored by the Wabash Center for Teaching and Learning in Theology and Religion. She has preached sermons at ministerial conferences and presented papers at professional meetings, and has published in and reviewed papers for academic journals. In addition, Dr. Fears has received an HU Provost's Distinguished Service Award (2021) and in 2023 was recognized by Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary for exemplifying faithfulness, commitment, and perseverance in ministry through leadership in academic, nonprofit, and congregational settings. Most recently, Dr. Fears received certificates of appreciation for her participation in the development of the Howard University Leadership Framework and in the development of the Howard University Service Framework.

Previously, Dr. Fears worked in bio-behavioral studies with Midwest Research Institute, in documentation and training with AT&T and Lucent Technologies, and in environmental, social and governance (ESG) advocacy with Wespath Investment Management formerly The General Board of Pension and Health Benefits of The United Methodist Church. She has a Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies in Theology and Ethics, Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Education and Congregational Studies and a Preaching Award from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. She is an Adrienne M. and Charles Shelby Rooks Fellowship recipient from and ordained clergy in the United Church of Christ, an IRB-certified human researcher, and a CPE-trained chaplain.