Her Story
About Shaneé
Shaneé T. Major, J.D., is a Maryland-barred attorney and Supervising Attorney at Community Legal Services, where she works within the nonprofit legal services sector. With more than 20 years of legal experience, she has developed a career centered on advocacy, access to justice, domestic violence, family law, and service to vulnerable populations. In her current supervisory role, she oversees attorneys and manages complex legal matters involving domestic violence survivors, protective orders, custody disputes, and other family law concerns. Her professional experience also includes supporting individuals with disabilities through the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities and working with children in need of assistance and foster care youth. Shaneé earned her Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law and holds a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections from Iona University. She also earned a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University, where she previously served in an education leadership role as a campus dean. She is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Howard University School of Divinity, reflecting her continued interest in service, faith, leadership, and community engagement. In addition to her legal credentials, she previously held a Florida Real Estate Broker/Sales Agent credential and has pursued professional experiences across law, education, government, real estate, and nonprofit service. Shaneé's professional journey is deeply connected to her commitment to purpose, family, and community. She considers herself the first barred attorney and one of the first individuals in her family to earn a terminal degree, an accomplishment that reflects her perseverance and dedication to professional growth. Outside of her legal practice, she has supported organizations and initiatives including Alfred Street Baptist Church's Poor Saints Program and College Fund, House of Ruth, shelters serving unhoused individuals, YSSI, and Meals on Wheels. She attributes her drive to her children and to what she describes as a God-given purpose to serve her family, community, and the broader world. Her message to the next generation is one of authenticity, confidence, courage, perseverance, and continued growth.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shaneé
01What do you attribute your success to?
My children are a major source of my drive and motivation. When I do not know exactly what to do, I remind myself to do what I know I need to do and to keep moving forward.
I also attribute my success to understanding and living in my purpose. I believe that I have a God-given purpose, and that purpose is not solely for me. It extends to my children, my family, my community, and the world. That sense of purpose motivates me to continue serving others and pursuing the work I believe I am called to do.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women is to be their authentic selves and never shrink themselves to fit someone else's expectations. Listen to that inner voice that encourages you to pursue what you believe in, and have the courage to go for it.
Believe in yourself and remember that change can start with you. Whatever you set your mind to, believe that you are capable of accomplishing it. You do not have to have everything figured out at once. Take one step at a time.
There will be times when you fall down or make mistakes, but those moments do not have to define you. Learn from your mistakes, continue to strive, continue to grow, and keep moving forward.
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