Candidate Biography

Meet Shana Richards

A dedicated union leader bringing balance, energy, and growth-oriented leadership to our Union. Mom, wife, and union sibling committed to educator empowerment.

About Shana

Shana Richards is a proud member of the Guilford County Association of Educators (GCAE), where she has served in multiple capacities bringing a unique balance of leadership, organizing skills, and infectious energy to union work. Her approach is both fun and growth-oriented, creating spaces where educators feel empowered and supported.

Beyond her professional achievements, Shana is a devoted mom and wife who understands the challenges facing working families. She brings this perspective to every decision, ensuring that the voices of educators and their families are heard and valued. As a union sibling, she believes in the power of collective action and solidarity.

Union Leadership Experience

G

GCAE Leadership

Multiple leadership roles within Guilford County Association of Educators:

GCAE Organizing Committee 
GCAE Building Leader 
GCAE Vice President (2021-23)
GCAE Student Services Director 2019-21
GCAE District Organizer 2020
GCAE Organizing Fellowship Coach 2021

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NCAE Leadership

Active participation in North Carolina Association of Educators programs, connecting local and state initiatives including:

NCAE Statewide Campaign Planning Team 2025-Present
NCAE Instructional PD Committee 2024-Present
NCAE Student Services Division President 2023-25
NCAE Government Relations Commission 2023-Present 
NCAE AutoPay Convening 2025
NCAE Student Services Division Vice President 2021-23
NCAE Student Services Division - Region 4 Director 2019-20
NCAE Organizing 101 Co-Facilitator 2020
Marshall Ganz Leadership Summer Workshop 2020 

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National Education Association (NEA)

NEA Leadership Summit Presenter 2026

NEA Leadership Summit Attendee 2025
NEA Minority Leadership Training/Women's Leadership Training Attendee 2023
NEA Pre UniServ Academy - Cohort 8 2023-24

What She Brings

Balanced Leadership: Combines strategic thinking with grassroots organizing to create sustainable change from the ground up.

Energetic Approach: Brings enthusiasm and positivity to union work, making organizing efforts both effective and enjoyable.

Growth-Oriented: Focuses on developing leadership capacity in others, ensuring long-term organizational strength.

Family Perspective: Understands the real challenges educators face, bringing authentic representation to leadership.

Join Shana's Campaign

Support a leader who understands the power of unity and the importance of every educator's voice. Together, we can build a stronger, more effective union.

Get Involved
Strength in solidarity: Power in unity

Unity in Action

Ready to endorse Shana Richards for NEA Director? 

Together, we can build a future where every voice is heard and every student succeeds.

Endorse Shana