“Shanna is a strong, reputable leader and advocate who has made a difference for women and girls in Rhode Island. She has unbridled energy and focused efforts that enable her to achieve outstanding results in advancing and empowering women toward full equity,” Linda Newton, Rhode Island Commission on Women chair says.

With almost 20 years of experience in women's issues, Wells has an excellent and strong community network. These relationships, and her skills in collaboration, gave her a formidable voice with the Rhode Island Coalition Against Human Trafficking.

Wells also assists with the facilitation of the Civil Rights Roundtable and participates in the Rhode Island Community Food Bank’s Women Ending Hunger program. She uses her talents as a singer and actress to raise awareness and empower women. Her one women performance of Mrs. Claus in Menopause was a fundraiser for Women Ending Hunger.

“The ability to see myself in every woman is the driving force behind all my work. I was fortunate to grow up with a consistent roof over my head, plenty of food to eat, decent schools and familial expectations that I would achieve a good education. But I also saw how traditional gender roles, sexual politics and an entrenched patriarchy impacted my life and the lives of women I knew. I believe that if you wish for peace, you must work for justice, and those who are fortunate have a moral obligation to help those still struggling,” Wells says.