Shakenya was born in Tucson, Arizona and grew up in Washington, DC. She received a loving, holistic education from two warm, faith forming Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Washington. From these Jesuit and Salesian experiences she learned the importance of finding ""God in all things"", embracing the ""little virtues"" and committing to faith in action. 

Shakenya is a graduate from Loyola University New Orleans, Trinity University, and the University of Notre Dame. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, and two Master of Arts degrees in Education, one for Curriculum, Instruction, and Social Change and the other in Education Administration and Leadership. 

She began her career as a Notre Dame Mission Volunteers (AmeriCorps) and has served as a teacher, youth leader, instructional coach and administrator. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and fully embraces its values of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer womanhood. 

Shakenya is inspired by the servant leadership of Mary Virginia Merrick and the incredible works of Christ Child Society. 

She is honored to serve as the principal of our great school and plans to continue the legacy of growing children in faith, knowledge, and loving service.