SHENAY JEFFREY

Shenay Jeffrey is the outreach coordinator at the Office of PittServes at the University of Pittsburgh. She is responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with community partners who are interested in providing service opportunities to students. Shenay was born in Georgetown Guyana and attended secondary school in Nassau Bahamas. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh and Master’s degree from the Heinz College at Carnegie Mellon University. She is currently enrolled in the University of Pittsburgh Ed.D program with a focus on reproductive justice framework as it relates to students of color in higher education.

Shenay holds leadership positions in local organizations such as the Urban League Young Professionals of Greater Pittsburgh (chapter President), PUMP (Public Policy & Advocacy Board Chair) and New Voices for Reproductive Justice (Nominations Chair).

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shenayjeffrey/

Monday, September 17

I’ll be up at 4:15 a.m. every day this week heading to Freedom Fitness in the Strip District. I’m part of a six-week 20-pound challenge that I have really been enjoying. It helps to have something totally dedicated to me and my health. I’ll head into work for the day after class.

In the evening, I’ll make some calls for the Urban League Young Professionals of Greater Pittsburgh. I’m the chapter president, so I’ll be checking in with some board members and discussing membership recruitment strategies.

Tuesday, September 18

After my morning workout, I’ll head into work to meet with some of the Black Action Society members and Community Engagement Center in the Hill District Director. We’re working together to form a mentorship program for Pitt students to connect with kids in the Hill District.

Around 4:30 p.m., I’ll attend the University of Pittsburgh Community and Government Relations neighborhood block party in Oakland, where we’ll bring together students, university groups, and community members and businesses in Oakland to network and get to know one another. It’s a great opportunity for students to connect with one another and learn a little bit more about Pitt and the neighborhood!

Afterward, I’ll try to stop by the Thelma Lovette YMCA in the Hill District for a 6 p.m. spin class.

Wednesday, September 19

In the morning, I have a meeting at the Homewood Community Engagement Center where I’ll talk with nonprofit partners in the neighborhood about Pitt Make a Difference Day on Oct 20. This is a huge day of service where hundreds of students sign up to participate in community service projects across the city. If local organizations have projects for students to volunteer with, we are looking to engage with them.

At 8:30 p.m. I’ll attend our weekly Student Civic Engagement Council meeting at Pitt, where I’ll chat with eight amazing student leaders about service projects they’re planning. This group of students is so dedicated to community service and engaging their peers in unique efforts – it’s so great to see that. Shout out to the elite eight members!

But my day won’t be done just yet! I’ll head home to join a call with the National Urban League Young Professionals where we’ll discuss updates from each chapter and talk about ways we can move our mission forward on a national level.

I’ll finish up around 11:30 p.m. and head right to bed!

Thursday, September 20

During the day, I’ll attend a lecture at Pitt. It’s important to me to continue learning and finding new ways to improve myself, the community, and the programs I’m involved with at Pitt.

After work, I’ll head to the PUMP board meeting, where I’m the Public Advocacy Committee Chair. Right now, we’re partnering with United Way of Southwestern PA, along with other agencies, to encourage our community to vote ‘yes’ to pass the Allegheny County Children’s Fund in the General Election on November 6. (Make sure you’re registered to vote!)

Friday, September 21

I’m also part of United Way’s LINC committee, so this morning I’ll be headed to United Way for a meeting. We’ll talk about upcoming events, like Games for Good and Hoodies for the Holidays, and brainstorm ways we can engage more young professionals in United Way’s work. I always leave these meetings feeling energized, knowing the work we are supporting is making a huge impact on our community – from seniors to local kids to struggling families.

In the evening, my partner Brandon and I will be going to the Martin Lawrence show at PPG Arena. After a long week, I’m excited to relax and enjoy a night out in the city.

Saturday, September 22

Another workout begins at 8 a.m.! Afterward, Brandon and I will go grocery shopping together. I prepare my grocery list ahead of time and try to stick with veggies, chicken, and turkey for my meals throughout the week.

Later, I’ll need to buckle down and get some homework done. I’m working toward getting my Doctorate in Education at Pitt. I just started this summer, and I’ve really been enjoying it so far!