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Shanel
Thomas-Henry

Meet

Shanel Thomas-Henry is a dedicated community specialist and leader with over two decades of experience in community development, capacity building, and program execution.  A lifelong resident of Queens, NY, she tirelessly works to foster relationships with elected officials, businesses, and community leaders, striving to make a lasting impact on the community she proudly serves. Her guiding philosophy reflects her dedication: "My goal in life is to prepare the next generation to ascend beyond what I have achieved; if they can begin their journey where we end ours, that’s true progress."

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Shanel's Story

With over two decades of experience in community development, capacity building, sales, business development, program execution, and media relations, Mrs. Thomas-Henry brings a wealth of expertise to her role as the public information liaison for the $8 billion LaGuardia Redevelopment Program. Her commitment extends to fostering and maintaining vital relationships with elected officials, businesses, and community leaders, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard. In her capacity, she ensures transparent communication by keeping the public informed about the program's progress and opportunities available during and after redevelopment, including employment and contract openings. Moreover, she has pioneered initiatives that directly benefit the surrounding communities of LaGuardia Airport, Corona and East Elmhurst. Noteworthy accomplishments include launching the LaGuardia Career Center at Elmcor, establishing the LaGuardia Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship that thus far has granted 12 scholarships to students from East Elmhurst and Corona, and initiating the STEM Summer Camp in partnership with Langston Hughes Library and Cultural Center and the East Elmhurst Library. Additionally, she spearheaded the curation of art exhibits in the landmarked Marine Air Terminal, enriching the airport's cultural landscape. 
A proud lifelong resident of Queens, NY, Mrs. Thomas-Henry has contributed her leadership to numerous local boards, including the New York City Industrial Development Agency, Build NYC Resource Corporation, Kiwanis Club of LaGuardia Airport, Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, Inc., Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens CDC, and Community Board 3. Mrs. Thomas-Henry holds a BA in International Business with a concentration in marketing and a Masters in Public Administration from Howard University. She has also pursued studies abroad at the Sorbonne in Paris, France, and the Cultural Institute in Oaxaca, Mexico.

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