Shakenya Ward-Brassell
Summary
Master of Social Work student at Gallaudet University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and experience in education, healthcare, mentoring, and client-centered support. Passionate about trauma-informed care, behavioral health, advocacy, and serving children, families, and underserved communities. Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) with strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Associate
Target
Rochester, New York
04.2022 - 10.2023
- Built rapport with diverse customers while resolving concerns through active listening and problem-solving.
- Communicated product information clearly to help customers make informed decisions.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain an organized, fast-paced work environment.
ASL Teacher
Visually Speaking
Washington, District of Columbia
08.2020 - 04.2022
- Created engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learner needs in American Sign Language.
- Facilitated one-on-one tutoring sessions, boosting proficiency in students facing challenges.
- Tracked student progress, attendance, and participation to inform instructional strategies.
Audiology Assistant
Rochester Institute of Technology, RIT
Rochester, New York
08.2020 - 12.2020
- Coordinated communication between patients and healthcare providers to improve service delivery.
- Maintained clinical equipment and supported infection-control procedures to ensure a safe patient care environment.
- Executed administrative tasks, including scheduling appointments, filing paperwork, and managing emails, to support office operations.
Summer Camp Director
Explore Your Future
Rochester, New York
06.2018 - 07.2018
- Planned and executed programs fostering teamwork and leadership skills among campers.
- Supervised 15 staff members, ensuring safety and support for campers.
- Supported campers experiencing behavioral and interpersonal challenges by using positive guidance, conflict-resolution strategies, and effective communication.
Student Life Team
Rochester Institute of Technology, RIT
Rochester, New York
09.2015 - 05.2017
- Leveraged campus resources to enhance academic support and career development for peers.
- Provided peer mentoring and academic support while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
- Organized study sessions and tutoring for fellow students to promote collaboration.
Education
Master of Social Work -
Gallaudet University
Washington, DC05-2028
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY01-2021
Skills
- Professional communication
- Trauma-informed care
- Active Listening
- Collaboration
- Conflict resolution
- Crisis Response
- American Sign Language (ASL)
- Organization and Time Management
- Case Documentation
- Cultural competency
- Client Advocacy
Timeline
Sales Associate
Target
04.2022 - 10.2023
ASL Teacher
Visually Speaking
08.2020 - 04.2022
Audiology Assistant
Rochester Institute of Technology, RIT
08.2020 - 12.2020
Summer Camp Director
Explore Your Future
06.2018 - 07.2018
Student Life Team
Rochester Institute of Technology, RIT
09.2015 - 05.2017
Master of Social Work -
Gallaudet University
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Rochester Institute of Technology