We were charting our rebound as we slowly unraveled from the recession and launched a search for a Chief Development Officer in 2010. During the final round of the process, we had two great leaders- one Black woman and one white man. I began to hear murmurs of unconscious bias from our interview panels, so I went to Larry James’ office to discuss with him as he was making his final decision. It was the first time I had a conversation with a CEO about racism that was open and honest —an important lesson for me as a 27-year-old leader. Shawn was named our Chief Development Officer and became the first Black woman to join the executive team, paving the way for me to join three years later. Shawn is brilliant, creative, loves sports and Beyonce’, and has a winsome way about her that allows her to connect with anyone. Her leadership was pivotal in shaping and funding what CitySquare would become over the next decade. And she put some extra swag on the CitySquare brand and events. Please see below a summary of our interview.
Where are you from, and how does that influence the work you do?
I am from St. Louis, Missouri. Being from a city where I see people who look like me living their daily lives that might involve poverty and struggle on some level. Even if I couldn’t relate to all of the struggles, I could empathize, as I had been around it my whole life. Neighbors in the community remind me of home and my family. I’ve always wanted to help people who look like me and be part of a solution.
When did you work at CitySquare, and what was your role?
I served as the Chief Development Officer from 2010 to 2016. I led a team that managed all aspects of donor relations, fundraising, communications, volunteer management, and organizational events.
Why did you work at CitySquare?
In addition to the community reminding me of my hometown, I also appreciated Larry as a leader. He made me feel seen and valued. I was pregnant with my youngest daughter when I interviewed for the job, and I told Larry when he made me the offer, and he said, “What kind of person would I be if I judged you for being pregnant or having a baby?” And the way he continued to affirm me as a leader and working mother. It just showed me that Larry and CitySquare had a mission I wanted to support, and also walked the talk.
What made CitySquare special to you?
The people made it special. Everyone- the staff and the neighbors. We were all in it together, and I felt like we could be ourselves at work. It was hard work, but knowing and seeing the results of your efforts made it worthwhile. We understood that the people closest to the problems have the answers, and we met people where they were with dignity and humility. I appreciated that we generally practiced what we preached.
What is the legacy of your contributions to CitySquare?
Fundraising for significant developments, including The Opportunity Center, The Cottages, and CityWalk at Akard. Leveling up our events, particularly our major event, A Night to Remember, is part of my legacy. Meeting Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin was a major highlight of my life. Having Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Hall & Oates, Jay Leno, and Lyle Lovett headline the event during my tenure was amazing and contributed to our success. Additionally, having the events reflect who we were as an organization and community, and having everyone from neighbors to staff to donors be part of our fundraising strategy, was important to me and is part of my legacy.
What are you doing now?
I am the CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Collin County. Employees throughout the organization tell me that they feel seen and valued, and that they can be themselves at work. That makes me feel good and is something I carry with me from CitySquare.
