Ryan Shanahan

Ryan Shanahan is an experienced professional in justice reform and program management, currently serving as the Global Justice Exchange Director at the Vera Institute of Justice since October 2009. Throughout the career, Ryan has held various leadership positions, including Director of Restoring Promise and Research Director for the Center on Youth Justice, focusing on developing research agendas and supervising project implementation. Previously, Ryan worked as a Senior Program Associate, managing organizational change efforts within corrections and juvenile justice systems. Earlier roles included Project Director at Family Justice, where Ryan supported the adoption of family-focused approaches, and instructional positions at the University of Maryland, specializing in women's studies and intersectionality. Educational qualifications include a PhD and Master's in Women's Studies from the University of Maryland and a BA from the University of Connecticut.