Her Story
About LaShonna
LaShonna Smith is an education and organizational development professional with experience in literacy programs and nonprofit operations. She currently serves as Director of Strategic Expansion at Augustine Literacy Project in Charlotte, where she leads program scaling, addresses barriers within school districts, and works to expand student access. Her background includes roles as an elementary school teacher and special education teacher for K-12 students. She has been in the nonprofit sector for about four years after a long career in education, having transitioned after having her third child. She is passionate about helping students reach their potential and has helped students exit special education programs by building their self-advocacy skills. In her current role, she collaborates across departments, builds relationships with principals and teachers, and focuses on removing barriers to implement tutoring programs effectively.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with LaShonna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think my success is really just being able to work with other people, see their strengths and mine, and be able to adapt. Collaboration is really important to me. I would say that and my faith, being able to be gracious to people and understanding that everyone has a bad day.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I think we're all lifetime learners. You can only grow if you're willing to learn new things, explore new things. It's important to learn what you're good at and your strengths, find those things and stick in that lane. Find people who can fan into flame the things that you have been created to do. It should always be rewarding and valuable.
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