Biography
Shakoya Brown is a communication educator, public relations practitioner, and strategic communications professional committed to helping students discover the power of their voices and understand how communication can influence people, organizations, and communities. Her areas of interest include public speaking, public relations, and strategic communication, with additional interests in media, community engagement, philanthropy, HBCU culture, and student development.
In the classroom, Shakoya strives to create an environment that combines academic learning with practical, real-world application. She encourages students to think critically, communicate confidently, embrace creativity, and understand the responsibility that comes with being an effective communicator. Drawing from her professional experience in public relations, strategic communication, community engagement, and nonprofit and higher education spaces, she brings examples and experiences into the classroom that help students connect course concepts to the world beyond campus.
Beyond teaching, Shakoya is passionate about service, mentorship, and strengthening communities. Her work and involvement reflect a commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students and young professionals, supporting HBCUs, fostering community partnerships, and using communication to build relationships and create positive change. She believes education extends far beyond the classroom and that some of the most meaningful learning happens when students are challenged to apply what they know in service to others.
At the heart of her approach to education is a simple expectation she shares with every student:
“Come as you are, but expect to grow while you’re here.”
For Shakoya, the classroom should be a space where students are welcomed as they are while being challenged to leave more confident, curious, capable, and prepared than when they arrived.
