LaShawnté M Gordon

Chairman of the Board, Program Director

LaShawnte is a Chicago native who attended Arthur Dixon Elementary and Kenwood Academy, graduating from both schools with high honors. She went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business with concentrations in accounting and finance from Dillard University in New Orleans, LA. Lashawnte has over 15 years of experience servicing underserved communities and has certifications in community development and project management.

“I began living in my purpose long before I realized it was my passion… I joined Shoot for the Stars to afford children in underserved communities the opportunity to learn about self-advocacy, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and leadership and management life skills. My heart’s desire is that with my experience, and the resources Shoot for the Stars can provide, that these youth have a better chance at living a FULL life.”

When LaShawnte is not dedicating herself to Shoot for the Stars, she works as the director of operations, marketing, enrollment, and extended day programs of an inner-city turnaround school in Chicago. She also serves as the superintendent of Christian Formation at a Chicago-based Episcopalian church community and is also a dedicated full-time mother.

“Many times I find myself in the classrooms engaging with my students and teaching more than in my office, mainly because where I see NEED, I try my best to figure out what that need is, in hopes of helping a struggling student or helping a teacher to understand a student’s shortcomings… I am forever grateful that God has placed so many special and unique gifts inside of me to wear I can do great work within a community that’s in need.”