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Dr. Shauntay Nelson: A Visionary Leader in Community Engagement, Advocacy, and Leadership Development


Dr. Shauntay Nelson is a trailblazer with over 25 years of experience in community education, organizing, and leadership development within the public sector. A dynamic political strategist, Dr. Nelson has dedicated her career to empowering diverse communities, fostering coalitions, and driving systemic change through innovative approaches and unwavering commitment.
A Leader of Leaders
Dr. Nelson has a remarkable ability to connect with emerging leaders, nurturing their growth and equipping them to effect impactful change. Her expertise spans leadership development, strategic planning, public policy, and advocacy. Proficient in power mapping, coalition building, and solutions-based thinking, she has demonstrated a proven capacity to design and implement issue-based programs that achieve meaningful results.
Her dedication to developing leaders is reflected in her work as a facilitator and trainer. She has served as a Youth Program Educator, Job-Readiness Trainer, and Group Facilitation Trainer, offering her skills to organizations dedicated to empowering the next generation.
Service and Volunteerism
Dr. Nelson’s service extends beyond her professional endeavors. She has held key roles on boards for organizations such as Running Rebels, African American Ladies Empowered to Grow Opportunities, and WI Conservation Voters. Her dedication to community advancement is evident in her volunteer work, where she uses her expertise to promote education, equity, and systemic reform.
Public Service and Advocacy
As a registered lobbyist and public policy advocate, Dr. Nelson has influenced legislative actions and championed important causes. She served as Vice Chair of the Wisconsin Ethics Commission and currently contributes to community development as a member of the City of Glendale Plan and Architectural Review Commission.
Her advocacy has included impactful partnerships with Milwaukee high schools and community organizations to donate laptops and scholarships to graduating seniors, preparing them for higher education and addressing barriers to success.
An Esteemed Speaker and Thought Leader
Dr. Nelson’s insights have been sought after by academic institutions, media outlets, and community forums. She has delivered guest presentations at Marquette Law School, presented a TEDx Talk at Marquette University in 2019, and contributed her expertise at events such as the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
Her thought leadership has been featured in prominent media outlets, including NPR, CBS News, Time Magazine, The Guardian, and Milwaukee PBS’s Black Nouveau. These appearances highlight her ability to address complex issues with clarity and conviction, amplifying her voice as an advocate for marginalized communities.
Advancing Women’s Rights and Empowerment
As Vice President of the Wisconsin Women’s Network, Dr. Nelson continues to champion gender equity and women’s rights, further cementing her reputation as a steadfast advocate for social justice. Her leadership exemplifies a commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Recognitions and Legacy
Dr. Nelson’s contributions to community empowerment and systemic reform have left an indelible mark. Her work reflects a vision of a society where equity and opportunity are accessible to all, and her legacy of leadership, service, and advocacy continues to inspire.
