Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Shawna Irissarri

Lexington,KY

Summary

Innovative professional with expertise in promoting academic, career and social development programs. Possesses excellent communication, problem-solving and organizational skills. Established program coordinator goes the extra mile to help foster belonging and student success via strategic event planning. Marked by a commitment to enhancing student well-being and advocacy for marginalized communities, this is showcased by an ability to foster resilience in students through motivational programming founded in an ethics of compassion and care as well as navigate complex systems effectively.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Graduate Teaching Assistant

University of Kentucky
08.2020 - 07.2024
  • Developed strong rapport with 48 students per semester, earning their trust and respect through consistent empathy and understanding.
  • Created innovative activities/lesson plans to keep students engaged.
  • Provided emotional support to students during challenging times, fostering resilience and coping skills.
  • Promoted a safe and inclusive environment for all students by enforcing policies and procedures consistently.
  • Worked with the UK Disability Resource Center, UK basic needs coordinator, and the Counseling Center to discover the resources provided for students and promoted these resources.
  • Provided informal accommodations for students with anxiety/depression, neurodivergent conditions, and other disabilities by implementing universal design for learning.
  • Presented at 2 conferences on disability and trans advocacy topics, particularly on the intersection between trans and autistic populations, raising awareness among industry professionals and the public alike.

Lead Student Coordinator

California State University, Fresno
08.2017 - 02.2020
  • Organized, promoted, and executed campus wide events and conferences for the benefit of marginalized student populations.
  • Enhanced community awareness on trans, women's, and LGBT+ issues by organizing 30+ events and presentations.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on industry best practices.
  • Developed partnerships with 20+ community and campus organizations to expand scope of campus events.
  • Identified barriers faced by trans students, implementing strategies to overcome these challenges via event planning and programming.
  • Improved student satisfaction by providing events that fostered community and resilience.
  • Conducted 3 separate training sessions for staff members/faculty on best practices related to trans student support and advocacy work.
  • Adapted quickly when faced with unexpected challenges or changes in plans, maintaining composure while finding effective solutions.

Education

Master of Arts - Gender And Women's Studies

University of Kentucky
Lexington
08.2024

Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Women's Studies

California State University, Fresno
Fresno
05.2020

Skills

  • Event Organization
  • Expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Organization
  • Time management
  • Creative incorporation of latest technology
  • Student engagement
  • Promoting use of college resources
  • Relationship/coalition building

Timeline

Graduate Teaching Assistant

University of Kentucky
08.2020 - 07.2024

Lead Student Coordinator

California State University, Fresno
08.2017 - 02.2020

Master of Arts - Gender And Women's Studies

University of Kentucky

Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Women's Studies

California State University, Fresno

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Shawna Irissarri