Christopher Shanks
Miami,FL
Summary
Nonprofit executive and U.S. Army veteran specializing in community initiatives that deliver measurable outcomes for military and veteran populations. Demonstrated success in securing funding and establishing workforce development pipelines through strategic public-private partnerships, enhancing access to employment, healthcare, and education.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Director, Mission United
United Way Miami
Miami, USA
01.2023 - Current
- Secured a $750K major gift, advancing program expansion and long-term sustainability
- Established five-year MOU with U.S. Army Garrison Miami, launching workforce development pipeline for service members and spouses to improve employment opportunities
- Directed multi-partner ecosystem serving veterans across Miami-Dade, coordinating stakeholders across government, nonprofit, private sectors to enhance collaborative support
- Chaired an Advisory Committee of cross-sector leaders, driving alignment on strategy, funding priorities, and regional service delivery
- Scaled a regional service delivery model, establishing infrastructure positioned for replication across additional markets
- Represented organization in state-level policy forums with congressional leadership and FDVA, influencing veteran policy dialogue to advocate for better services
- Institutionalized KPI-driven performance systems to measure outcomes and guide strategic decisions
Veterans Program Grant Director
Palm Beach State College
01.2020 - 01.2023
- Directed full lifecycle management of a $1.3M federal grant, ensuring compliance, fiscal accountability, and alignment with Department of Education standards
- Designed scalable service delivery models supporting veteran transition and retention, enhancing long-term success
- Led staff development and organizational performance, building a high-functioning team delivering integrated support services
- Built cross-sector partnerships with education, workforce, and community organizations to expand access to services
- Implemented performance tracking systems measuring outcomes and guiding strategic program improvements
Student Development Advisor II & Veteran Advisor
Palm Beach State College
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Managed a portfolio of 950+ students, aligning academic planning with long-term career and transition outcomes
- Coordinated cross-functional support services to enhance student success and retention rates
- Identified at-risk populations and implemented targeted strategies that enhanced academic performance outcomes
Registrar
Virginia University of Lynchburg
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Directed SEVP certification efforts, facilitating international student enrollment and broadening institutional reach
- Restored compliance with federal reporting requirements to 97%, enhancing operational integrity
- Developed standardized operating procedures, ensuring efficiency and consistency across operations
Instructor & Writer
United States Army
01.2014 - 01.2017
- Earned recognition as top-performing instructor in multiple evaluation cycles
- Directed training programs for 30+ personnel, resulting in 98% pass rate through curriculum redesign and performance optimization
- Developed training programs for soldiers to enhance operational readiness.
- Delivered instructional sessions on military tactics and leadership principles.
- Facilitated hands-on exercises to reinforce practical skills in diverse environments.
Logistics Manager | First-Line Supervisor | Supply Specialist
United States Army
01.2004 - 01.2014
- Led logistics, supply chain, and personnel operations in high-demand environments, enhancing mission readiness across multiple operational units
- Managed inventory control and resource allocation, securing operational continuity and efficiency
- Supervised and developed personnel, fostering accountability and execution in complex conditions
- Advised leadership on operational planning and resource strategy to support mission effectiveness
Education
Graduate Certificate - College Teaching and Leadership
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL01-2021
Master of Education - Teaching & Learning – Leadership
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA01-2019
Bachelor of Science - Religious Studies
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA01-2014
Skills
- Veteran services strategy
- Government and policy engagement
- Public-private partnerships
- Enterprise program leadership
- Strategic planning
- Budget management
- Fundraising and donor engagement
- KPI development
- Team leadership
- Compliance and risk management
- Organizational leadership and team development
- Stakeholder engagement
Leadership And Professional Engagement
- Board Member, Miami-Dade County Military Affairs Board
- Moderator, United Way Florida Capitol Days (with Congressional Leadership & Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
- Graduate, Syracuse University Veterans Program for Politics and Civic Engagement (2026)
- Graduate Certificate in Public Policy (In Progress)
Timeline
Senior Director, Mission United
United Way Miami
01.2023 - Current
Veterans Program Grant Director
Palm Beach State College
01.2020 - 01.2023
Student Development Advisor II & Veteran Advisor
Palm Beach State College
01.2019 - 01.2020
Registrar
Virginia University of Lynchburg
01.2017 - 01.2019
Instructor & Writer
United States Army
01.2014 - 01.2017
Logistics Manager | First-Line Supervisor | Supply Specialist
United States Army
01.2004 - 01.2014
Graduate Certificate - College Teaching and Leadership
University of Central Florida
Master of Education - Teaching & Learning – Leadership
Liberty University
Bachelor of Science - Religious Studies
Liberty University