Shanell is a dynamic leader at the intersection of sports and social impact. As the Senior Director of Community Relations and Executive Director of the D.C. United Foundation, she spearheads transformative community initiatives aimed at creating a brighter future for the DMV region. A passionate advocate for leveraging the power of sports to inspire change, Shanell develops and leads programs that leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Before joining D.C. United, Shanell served as the Deputy Director of Sports Partnerships at UNICEF USA, where she forged strategic collaborations with U.S. sports leagues, teams, and athletes to champion education, advocacy, and fundraising efforts for the world’s most vulnerable children.

With over 16 years of experience in sports philanthropy, Shanell is a recognized thought leader in driving social innovation through sports. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Bentley University, a Master’s degree from Northeastern University, and a Sports Philanthropy Certificate from George Washington University.

In addition to her professional work, Shanell is a dedicated educator and community builder. She is a faculty member of the Sports & Entertainment Impact Collective, empowering the next generation of leaders to harness sports for good. She also serves on the boards of Bentley’s MOSAIC Alumni Council and DC SCORES, further extending her commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and impactful storytelling.

Shanell’s career is a testament to her unwavering belief in the ability of sports to unite, inspire, and drive meaningful change in communities worldwide.