About Us

Shanna joined West Virginia CASA Association (WV CASA) as State Executive Director in July 2020. She supports ten (10) local CASA programs throughout West Virginia and represents CASA on statewide committees, boards, and workgroups. Shanna is an active member of National CASA/GAL’s State Leadership Council.

Before joining WV CASA, Shanna worked for an environmental stewardship non-profit organization where she served as Partnerships Manager for the Eastern Region. She carries with her experience of Partnership Development, Operational Leadership, and Grant Management.

Shanna grew up in Southern Illinois where she earned her undergraduate degrees: B.A. in International Trade, B.A. in Spanish, B.S. in Business Administration. After graduation, she moved to Europe where she earned a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification in Florence, Italy and held a job in the governmental sector of Valencia, Spain.

Previously, Shanna held an active role on the board of WV Foster, Adoptive, Kinship Parents' Network and maintains supportive and meaningful connections. As foster parents in Fayette County, Shanna is passion-driven to lead positive movements that serve the youth in WV's foster care system.

Portia was born and raised on the island of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and now resides in Charleston, WV with her family. She received her undergraduate degree from West Virginia State University, majoring in English with a minor in Spanish, and her graduate degree from Walden University in Communication. She is in the final stages of her doctoral degree, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Walden University, specializing in entrepreneurial leadership, marketing, and social impact management.

Portia has a history of working with nonprofit organizations and is known for co-founding the nonprofit organization - Angels Inspired, Inc. This nonprofit organization grew from the West Virginia State University campus. Portia enjoys spending time with good friends and family and traveling to new and exciting places.