Shalonda Spencer

Politico | Advocate | Policy Expert

Shalonda Spencer is a remarkable individual who has demonstrated excellence in various fields such as policy, entrepreneurship, politics, and advocacy. Throughout her professional journey, she has utilized her extensive expertise and background to make a significant impact by shaping crucial social and political decisions, furnishing invaluable policy guidance to government leaders, and unwaveringly advocating for social and racial equity.

With over a decade of experience in government affairs, human rights, and social justice, Shalonda is an accomplished leader and a sought-after keynote speaker. Her expertise has led her to facilitate roundtable discussions for international audiences and organizations and to lead national security conversations on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through her activist approach, Shalonda has marched alongside fellow advocates to end racial disparities and provided mentorship to young women.

Shalonda's contributions in foreign affairs and diplomacy have been remarkable. As the former Executive Director of WCAPS, she raised the voice and prominence of women of color in the field of international relations. In her previous role as the Director of Public Policy and Government Affairs at Trying Together in Pittsburgh, PA, she advocated for high-quality early learning education for children and families. Shalonda's experience also extends to her role as a Legislative Assistant for the United States House of Representatives and as a Foreign Policy Analyst for the Mennonite Central Committee.

Shalonda has also been recognized for her leadership abilities. She served as an adjunct professor at Millsaps College in Mississippi, teaching urban politics within the Government and Politics Department. As the Advocacy Coordinator for the ACLU of Mississippi, she focused on criminal justice reform and voter rights.

Shalonda's community organizing skills have been instrumental in various political campaigns throughout the southern borders of Mississippi, including federal presidential campaigns. Her dedication and expertise in public service have earned her numerous awards and accolades, with recognition from the National Committee on American Foreign Policy as a 21st Century Leader Award reciepent, and the U.S. National Security and Foreign Affairs Leadership Award.

She is the founder of Politics for the Culture, a podcast that exCurrently, Shalonda is pursuing an Executive Master's degree in International Relations with a focus on Foreign Policy at Syracuse University. She is a proud HBCU graduate of Jackson State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Policy Degree in Public Policy and Administration. Shalonda continues to dedicate herself to public service and make positive contributions to society.