Shanel is a proud lifelong resident of Corona and East Elmhurst, and it’s this pride that inspired her to become heavily involved in her local community. She has an extensive background from decades of community service, including serving on numerous local boards, including, but not limited to, the New York City Industrial Development Agency, Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, Inc., Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens CDC, the 115th Precinct Council and Community Board 3.
With over two decades of experience in community development, including as the public information liaison for the $8 billion LaGuardia Redevelopment Program, her commitment extends beyond just the now. Shanel is focused on building a brighter future for generations of Queens families.
Shanel’s family raised her to always be rooted in service and advocacy. Shanel’s mother is from a small country town in Maryland, just a few miles from the birthplace of Harriet Tubman. Her mother raised her and two of her siblings as a single mother, while her father was stationed abroad in the Army. To be closer to Shanel’s father’s family, they moved to the East Elmhurst/Corona neighborhoods — where Shanel was born.
Shanel’s father is a 20 year retired army First Sergeant and her mother has had a number of careers from childcare to bus operator for New York City Transit.
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