Shauna Lewis, Ed.D.
Shauna Lewis, Ed.D., is the Coordinator of Student Success at Rappahannock Community College, where she leads a comprehensive onboarding and advising program designed to guide students from application through enrollment, retention, and completion. She supervises College Navigators, develops student-centered initiatives, and collaborates across divisions to ensure seamless support for learners of diverse backgrounds and needs. Shauna’s work is defined by her dedication to creating equitable pathways to academic success and fostering an environment where students feel seen, supported, and empowered.
With a career that spans K–12 special education and higher education leadership, Shauna brings a wealth of experience to her role. She has served as a special education teacher, housing office manager, and external field placement director, experiences that strengthened her ability to identify barriers, provide personalized support, and lead operational and budget initiatives across student services. Her professional expertise includes student recruitment, early-alert retention strategies, program management, and mentorship, all grounded in a philosophy that values persistence, faith, and a purpose-driven approach to education.
Shauna’s educational journey reflects her commitment to lifelong learning. She earned multiple degrees through Liberty University, culminating in a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration, and holds the NACE Faculty & Staff Fellows credential. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she volunteers as an academic mentor, participates in mission work, and contributes to community initiatives. From her small-town classroom beginnings to higher education leadership, Shauna continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, emphasizing advocacy, resilience, and the transformative power of guidance and mentorship.
• NACE Faculty & Staff Fellows Credential
• Liberty University - EdD
• Kappa Delta Pi
• Sigma Gamma Rho
• Northern Neck Baptist Millennial Advisory Committee
• Tim Tebow Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence, faith, and staying grounded in my purpose. Growing up in a small town taught me early on that opportunities do not always appear on their own. I learned the importance of showing up, asking questions, and continuing forward even when the path felt uncertain. Along the way, I have leaned on mentors, remained open to growth, and taken time to reflect honestly on where I can improve. At the heart of my work is a deep care for the people I serve. Staying connected to my values and my “why” has guided every step of my journey and continues to shape how I show up each day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to focus on growth and impact rather than titles. When you stay committed to learning and doing meaningful work, opportunities tend to follow. That advice has helped me remain adaptable, open to new challenges, and focused on long-term purpose rather than short-term recognition.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this field to trust their voice, seek mentorship and professional development opportunities, and remember that they belong in the spaces they step into. Growth often happens outside of comfort zones, and the perspective you bring truly matters.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in higher education today is recognizing and responding to the realities students face beyond the classroom. Many students are balancing academic responsibilities alongside work, family obligations, financial pressures, and personal challenges, all of which influence their ability to persist and succeed. At the same time, this moment presents a meaningful opportunity. When institutions intentionally center student success through connection, clear communication, and proactive support, we can create environments where students feel supported, engaged, and empowered to navigate their academic journey with confidence.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, transparency, and compassion are the values that guide me both professionally and personally. In my work, these values shape how I lead, communicate, and make decisions, especially in complex or evolving environments. I believe transparency builds trust and accountability, while compassion ensures that leadership remains people-centered and student-focused. On a personal level, these same values ground me in how I show up for others. They remind me to listen, lead with empathy, and stay true to my purpose. Together, they guide how I serve, collaborate, and grow.
Locations
Rappahannock Community College
Glenns, VA 23149
Rappahannock Community College
Warsaw, VA, 22572