Shawn is a 757 native and former member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia. After graduating from Norfolk Academy in 2014, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania while also focusing on his pre-med studies. There he was able to participate in many extracurricular programs including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Varsity Basketball, and various pre-health organizations. Currently, Shawn is a medical student at Columbia University in New York looking to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. Having always viewed education as his vehicle to success, he hopes to use his platform to inspire others to dream big and be relentless in their pursuits.

All in all, he says the Boys and Girls Club was truly a crucial part of his childhood. “Not only did it help keep me stimulated and focused throughout many summers, but it also gave me endless opportunities to make lifelong friends.” He believes the positive impact that the staff had on him was a true spark for his passion of mentoring and working with the next generation. “Shoutout to the Club for everything y’all do and may y’all continue to positively impact kids’ lives for generations to come.”