Shonna Tillman

Starkville

Shonna Tillman is a dedicated academic and public policy expert with a strong background in rural government, community and economic development, and women’s representation. She holds a PhD in Public Policy and Administration from Mississippi State University; Shonna’s research focuses on the intersection of race, gender, and politics, particularly the motivations and challenges faced by Black women in political leadership roles.

Shonna has extensive teaching experience and has instructed courses on American Government, African American Politics, and Public Administration. Her professional experience includes roles as a Project Manager at The Southern Poverty Law Center, where they contributed to advocacy training and building capacity through coalition building throughout Mississippi. Shonna has also held several research assistantships, including work on studies related to arms transfers, security privatization, and educational program development in rural Mississippi.

Adrian is an active contributor to the academic and local community, with numerous presentations and invited lectures on topics such as digital advocacy and community organizing. Her work has been recognized with the Juneteenth Freedom Fighter Award and the Donald Zacharias Graduate Teaching Assistant of the Year Award.

Shonna’s professional affiliations are a testament to her commitment to community service and social justice. She is a member of the American Society for Public Administration, the Black Women’s Studies Association, the National Conference of Black Political Scientists, and The Diamond Project Inc. In her role at The Diamond Project Inc., she serves as a mentor to young girls in her community, demonstrating her dedication to empowering the next generation. Shonna also founded a non-profit, Operation #iAM, an organization focused on mental health awareness.