Shawnae Montagueo

As chief of staff, Shawnae leads organization-wide strategy, Board engagement, and cross-team execution to amplify The Fund’s impact on Chicago’s public education ecosystem.

Prior to joining The Fund, she oversaw compliance for KIPP NYC Charter Schools. Prior to that, she managed the expansion of 3-K/Pre-K for All initiative at the New York City Department of Education. She holds a Bachelor’s from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

She has been recognized for her contributions to the field, including honors from the New Jersey commissioner of education for her leadership in developing the state’s federally approved ESSA Plan focused on equity and access.

Shawnae is a Chicago native, Teach for America alum, Education Pioneer, and executive member of the Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League. Outside of the office, she enjoys coffee shops, cooking, mentoring young professionals, and traveling across the globe.