Her Story
About Shanell
Shanell Bohannan is a systems-level advocacy strategist, social worker, and community engagement leader dedicated to strengthening the connection between families and the institutions designed to serve them. As the Founder and Principal Consultant of The Sariah Rose, she partners with schools, early childhood programs, and community organizations to identify systemic barriers, improve family engagement, and develop sustainable solutions that promote equity, accountability, and access. Her work is grounded in the belief that lasting change begins with restoring trust and creating systems where every family feels seen, supported, and empowered.
Drawing on a diverse background in child welfare, disability services, behavioral health, and education, Shanell has built a career focused on improving outcomes for children and families through strategic advocacy and organizational transformation. She has served in roles with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Disability Services of the Southwest, Childcare Associates, and Salience TMS Neuro Solutions, gaining extensive experience in program management, compliance, case coordination, stakeholder engagement, and systems improvement. Her expertise enables organizations to bridge gaps between policy and practice while designing trauma-informed, data-driven initiatives that foster meaningful community impact.
In addition to leading The Sariah Rose, Shanell is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Public Relations and Image Management at The University of Texas at Arlington, complementing her Bachelor of Social Work with skills that strengthen public engagement and institutional partnerships. A passionate speaker and advocate, she regularly shares insights on resilience, trauma-informed care, leadership, and systems change through community events, educational initiatives, and podcast appearances. Guided by a commitment to healing, collaboration, and service, Shanell continues to champion innovative approaches that help organizations create stronger communities and brighter futures for children and families.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shanell
01What do you attribute your success to?
I feel before when I was younger before I got to this point in my healing process the people that I helped are the people that I'm quote-unquote saved. We're going to in a way help me process that there was no one for me. I have come to terms with I will intercede. If I see a need I will intercede always. No matter what it is. It's not to save my younger self it's not for the little girl in me to be recognized or healed. It is I am an adult. I know I can read policy I can dissect policy I can analyze systems I can analyze family systems education systems medical hospital systems. If I can do it I will intercede.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice that I can have is to keep going. I started off very young I graduated at a young age and with graduating and being one of the youngest people in most rooms for a really long time I realized that the only thing you can do is keep going. Take that passion you know and you might run into systems that are broken. You feel like you're going against the whole system to help one person. Keep going.
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