A young boy with a short hairstyle, on a beach, wearing a necklace and patterned shorts, standing outdoors against a light background.

“I’ve always believed that life itself is one of the greatest teachers.”

Growing up in the Caribbean, between the U.S. Virgin Islands and St. Kitts, I was surrounded by a vibrant culture and community, the kind that teaches you early on that stories connect people. That love of community, culture, and connection has shaped the person I am today.

My professional journey has taken me from London to Cambridge, MA (Boston) to Washington, D.C., through roles in public media, association management, and public relations. Each stop sharpened my leadership, creativity, and problem‑solving skills, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Most recently, I led projects that supported public media organizations nationwide. Work that reinforced the essential role public media plays in educating and informing communities across the country.

Outside of work, I stay grounded through community involvement. I’ve volunteered on alumni committees, helped raise funds for charitable causes, served on the board of a bilingual adult education charter school, and now volunteer with an organization that supports mutual aid initiatives in Washington, D.C. I also love discovering new restaurants, not just for what’s on the plate, but for the stories, people, and conversations that come with it. Travel is what truly fuels me. I find joy in immersing myself in different cultures and encouraging others to do the same. In January 2024, I fulfilled a lifelong goal by visiting all seven continents with a journey to Antarctica, an unforgettable adventure that included sailing the Drake Passage and taking a polar plunge.

At my core, I’m someone who sees every experience, even the hard ones, as a chance to learn and grow. I thrive on learning, connecting, and challenging myself to see the world from new perspectives. Whether in a conference room, around a dinner table, or halfway across the world, I try to lead with empathy, curiosity, and authenticity. Life is challenging enough, so lead with empathy and leave your mark on the world.


Who is ShawnR

Chicken and beef with rice, a fried egg, and fresh vegetables on a black plate.
A man dressed in outdoor gear standing on a rocky shoreline with a body of water, snow-capped hills, and a ship in the background.
A person in a red kayak with a life jacket paddling on a lake with other kayakers, surrounded by mountains and cloudy sky.