Shonda Laurel

Shonda Laurel is a distinguished leader in the field of early care and education, with over a decade of experience shaping policy and practice at both the federal and state levels. She holds a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) from Central Michigan University and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to advancing equitable, high-quality child care systems nationwide.

In her federal role, Shonda led the Region 2 Office, overseeing and administering the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) and providing strategic direction and regulatory guidance across multiple jurisdictions. Her leadership encompassed oversight of 6% of the national CCDF monitoring portfolio, including spearheading the regional Improper Payment Initiative to strengthen fiscal accountability and program integrity.

Shonda’s contributions to the field were recognized in 2023 with the prestigious Althea Wright Award, honoring her dedication to improving outcomes for children and families. She continues to champion initiatives that enhance early learning environments, support the childcare workforce, and promote sustainable policy solutions across diverse communities.