From Boston to Belfast

For more than three decades, Shannon has worked in partnership with political parties, candidates, elected officials and community movements around the world on efforts that lead to better outcomes for citizens and societies. This often involves reworking and constructively challenging decisionmaking systems to ensure that they are inclusive and consultative and that they accommodate women’s natural role as political and societal leaders. Her work is based on the extensive research on the benefits to societies that actively pursue equality and inclusion, particularly gender equality.

Shannon brings that frontline experience in programme development and delivery to her current role of Director of Programmes, where she works with WFD’s talented and innovative programming team to cultivate and support legitimate and resilient democratic governance.

Shannon is a specialist in organisational development, policy advocacy and political strategy. She is also an experienced trainer and facilitator and is an authority on adult learning.

Shannon has worked with the Northern Ireland Assembly, US House of Representatives, National Democratic Institute, Mercy Corps, EMILY’s List, Amnesty International, Children in Northern Ireland, as well as with groups and individuals seeking positive change in more than 20 countries worldwide. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Boston College and a Master of Law and Diplomacy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University. Shannon resides in Northern Ireland with her husband and two children.