L.I.F.E. Houston Appoints Shawntell L. McWilliams as New Chief Executive Officer

HOUSTON, TX — L.I.F.E. Houston is proud to announce the appointment of Shawntell L. McWilliams, MS, Ed.S, as its new Chief Executive Officer. With more than 20 years of leadership experience across nonprofit strategy, higher education, fundraising, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, McWilliams brings a powerful blend of innovation, operational excellence, and mission-centered leadership to the organization.

McWilliams has raised millions of dollars for nonprofits across Greater Houston, built high-performing major donor and philanthropic programs, and cultivated influential partnerships with corporations, foundations, hospitals, and community leaders. Her professional background includes key leadership roles in higher education at Wiley University, ownership of multiple successful businesses, and more than a decade of service as a nonprofit and fund development strategist. Although her expertise spans diverse sectors, her heart remains in community work—because it is purposeful, transformative, and deeply impactful.

A highly decorated civic and philanthropic leader, McWilliams has earned numerous honors for her leadership, service, and community advancement, including:

• City of Houston Proclamation

• American Cancer Society Philanthropist Award

• Houston Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business

• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Philanthropy and Community Leadership Award

• Houston League of Business and Professional Women Trailblazer in Business Award

• Texas Children’s Hospital Leadership and Entrepreneurship Community Champion Award

• Texas Children’s Hospital Community Champion Award

• State of Texas Woman of Worth Honoree

• 30 Most Influential Women Award

She is also an engaged member of several service and leadership organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; The Links, Incorporated; and the Junior League of Houston.

As CEO, McWilliams will guide L.I.F.E. Houston’s strategic direction, strengthen community partnerships, and elevate programs that ensure infants throughout Houston have consistent and reliable access to essential nutrition.

“I am deeply honored to lead L.I.F.E. Houston at such a pivotal moment for families in our city,” McWilliams said. “Every baby deserves a healthy start, and that begins with proper nourishment. I look forward to working alongside our team, partners, and supporters to ensure every family who needs us receives the care and resources they deserve.”

For more than 35 years, L.I.F.E. Houston has provided emergency formula assistance and nutritional support to families in need. Through its programs and partnerships, the organization plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity and supporting healthy beginnings for Houston’s youngest residents.