Everett Community College Appoints Sonel Shropshire as Associate Vice President of Equity and Social Justice

Release Date: Apr 14, 2025
Contact: Christopher Woodward, Director of Communications, 425-388-9404; cwoodward@everettcc.edu

EVERETT, WASH - Everett Community College has named Sonel Shropshire as its new associate vice president of equity and social justice. A nationally recognized expert in inclusive leadership and higher education strategy, Shropshire brings nearly 25 years of experience driving transformative equity initiatives across the country.

Shropshire’s career includes leadership roles at institutions such as UCLA, Loyola Marymount University, Texas Wesleyan University, Stetson University and the University of Florida, where he earned his Juris Doctor. As president of The Academic Network, he has partnered with several U.S. colleges and universities advising on equitable hiring practices, leadership development and diversity-centered strategic planning.

“Sonel brings an extraordinary depth of experience and a commitment to building a more just and inclusive educational environment,” said Everett Community College President Chemene Crawford, Ed.D. “He is a visionary leader whose work has reshaped institutions nationwide and we’re honored to have him join our team at Everett.”

Shropshire also served as associate vice president for global diversity, equity and civil rights at Delaware State University, where he built international partnerships in the Dominican Republic, India and Colombia. He founded the National Association of HBCU Students and Alumni and held appointments to national boards including the White House HBCU Initiative and the American Association of Community Colleges.

“Equity work isn’t just about policy—it’s about purpose,” Shropshire said. “We have a responsibility to embed justice into every part of the student experience. I’m proud to join Everett Community College and help advance a culture where every student feels seen, supported and empowered.”

Shropshire was appointed by the Colombian minister of foreign affairs as the inaugural president of the Center for Afro-Excellence in Cali, Colombia and his public service includes appointments to the California Science Center Advisory Board. 

The college’s leadership team is excited to welcome Shropshire and looks forward to the strategic vision and bold leadership he brings to this important role.