Let’s talk about why you founded Next Generation Elevation. What was your inspiration? What made you think of this as a powerful organization or anything you’d want to say.
Shannon began her career in the most unlikely, but fortunate circumstances in 2000. She found herself as the technical writer in support of the decennial expansion project for a government agency. Her love of words, learning new things, and leaning into the unknown truly helped catapult her into a career that was worlds away from where she’d thought she’d be as a film producer and fiction writer growing up. However, a series of life events led her to Cybersecurity.
Shannon graduated from the illustrious Fisk University with a degree in English and went on to study at Howard University. She was able to parlay that experience into a role as a technical writer while being mentored and guided by seasoned IT professionals. Surrounded by cutting edge technology and innovative projects, she was quickly recognized and rewarded by corporate leaders, moving from one challenging Cybersecurity support role to the next. Fast forward 20 plus years, Shannon has worked in a niche area of cybersecurity for the government making her a sought-after consultant, contributor, and champion of cybersecurity initiatives.
While serving in her many roles, she noticed how often she was in rare company of other women in the profession, but even more rare, women of color. She had plenty of male mentors, but it wasn’t until she worked with and for a select group of women, all of color, that she felt especially safe to make critical, but sometimes controversial decisions to meet the mission. It was within this community of women where she was given the initial opportunities to pursue higher heights within the profession and dream bigger.
In her quest to level the playing field, and usher more people of color, especially young women, Shannon has dedicated herself to bringing in qualified, more diverse voices, from the grassroots, who need the opportunities and support to join the elite and often overlooked ranks of women in cybersecurity. Hence her mission is to usher in the Next Generation of cybersecurity professionals for the Elevation of our connected communities. NGE, where we Empower, Educate, and Elevate one young woman/person at a time to contribute concretely to the mission of a cybersecure and connected world.
Dionne is a passionate math educator who dreams of inspiring and empowering girls and young women, especially those from underserved communities. With a strong background in mathematics education and firm belief in the transformative power of technology, Next Generation Elevation is aimed at teaching and mentoring girls of color in the essential skills of cybersecurity.
Dionne graduated from the illustrious Fisk University with a degree in Mathematics and received a graduate degree from the University of Phoenix. Upon graduation, Dionne didn’t immediately enter the education field. She pursued careers in the business in addition to dedicating herself to raising her sons. In 2007, Dionne decided to return to her first love of education and teaching having learned that from her mom, a retired educator. Dionne possesses an extensive understanding of pedagogical strategies and instructional methodologies. Her expertise in mathematics serves as a solid foundation for introducing girls to the logical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary in the cybersecurity domain.
With a deep understanding of the underrepresentation of girls and people of color in STEM, Shannon, founder of NGE, recognized the urgent need for targeted efforts to bridge this gap. Together, we firmly believe that every individual, regardless of their background, should have equal opportunity to pursue careers in technology and contribute to the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Through NGE, Dionne is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where the participants can thrive. They believe in instilling confidence, encouraging collaboration, and nurturing the unique talents of each individual. By providing mentorship, hands-on projects, and exposure to real world challenges, Dionne aims to prepare these girls for successful careers in cybersecurity.
Dionne is a visionary educator and entrepreneur whose unwavering commitment to equality and diversity fuels their mission. By bridging the gap, NGE aspires to inspire and empower the next generation of cybersecurity leaders, ensuring a safer digital future for all.
© 2023 Next Generation Elevation
