Shanell is a lifelong Iowan and was first introduced to the Foundation through her work as an Administrator of Early Childhood Iowa—the state’s early childhood systems building initiative.

Shanell provides extensive leadership in supporting the state’s quality rating system for childcare environments, offering her expertise to strengthen partnerships that promote quality programming. She is also a member of Iowa’s State Child Care Advisory Committee and was recently selected by Governor Reynolds to serve on the Children’s Mental Health Board. Her work has revealed the importance of childcare and the crucial role it plays for women and girls.

In addition to her work with IWF, Shanell is a member of Tori’s Angels, a foundation that works to make a difference in the lives of kids experiencing life-threatening challenges and medical conditions. She is also an active member of her church, serving as the Chair of the United Methodist Women group and on the Administration Board.