Education
MPS in UX Design, Maryland Institute College of Art
Shark Tank Fellowship
DesignFest MVP Award
Graduate Cert Transdisciplinary Studies, The New Centre for Research & Practice
Scholarship Awardee
MFA Poetry and Creative Nonfiction, Warren Wilson Program for Writers
Scholarship awardee
MA Disability Studies, City College (CUNY)
BA/MA Arabic, PennWest University
BA French, Oregon State University
Minor in Japanese
BA English, Brigham Young University
Choose to Give Executive Director
Inscape Advertising Director
Leading Edge Poetry Editor
London Study Abroad
Minors and extra studies in dance performance, vocal performance, and Spanish language and literature
Hi! I’m Shelli.
I create meaningful change in organizations and communities through design, education, and advocacy. My approach is rooted in justice, shaped by global experience, and tempered with humor and self-awareness.
As a UX designer, educator, and researcher, I specialize in translating complex ideas across disciplines and cultures. Currently pursuing an MPS in UX Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art, I draw on more than a decade of teaching and consulting across seven countries—from Brazil and Thailand to Saudi Arabia and England.
My interdisciplinary work bridges design, disability justice, and harm reduction. I lecture nationally, and I’ve helped secure legal victories for disabled students against the NYC Department of Education. As a former Professor of English and NYC Teaching Fellow, I earned a perfect evaluation from the U.S. State Department for my pedagogical practice.
With advanced degrees in English, poetry, and linguistics, plus training in Transdisciplinary Studies, I speak portions of seven languages and excel at making connections others might miss. My writing has earned recognition from leading voices including Noam Chomsky, Edward Hirsch, Emma Bolden, Mo Salemy, and Donna Kaz.
When I’m not reforming systems or designing solutions, I’m learning harp, painting abstract art, or writing lyric essays and poems—reminding me that harmony in any medium requires both technical skill and patient practice.
I’m also a former Walt Disney World performer, which taught me that even the most magical experiences require serious behind-the-scenes work.
