As Vice President of Community, Shawn co-leads the individual giving team primarily focused on high-net-worth individuals and foundations to both cultivate and grow XPRIZE’s existing benefactor community including its Vision Circle, Innovation Board, Spirit of XPRIZE and other circles of donors.

Immediately prior to joining XPRIZE, Shawn served as Vice President of Advancement, Marketing and Communications and Chief of Staff at Ripon College where he oversaw all aspects of Advancement, including Advancement Services, Brand, Communications and Public Relations, Constituent Engagement and Development. He led the largest and most successful philanthropic campaign in the college’s history - The Forever Ripon Campaign - which raised $120 million over five years. As Chief of Staff and a member of the Administrative Council, he worked closely with the Board of Trustees and served as a trusted advisor, key communicator, and strategic partner for the President.

In addition to his philanthropic and institutional leadership experience, Shawn has co-authored two publications and has been a featured keynote speaker for at-risk youth, sharing his personal story of overcoming tragedy and loss while encouraging audiences to use their voice to make a difference in the lives of others. Within his community and region, he serves as a volunteer and member of multiple Boards.

Shawn graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a degree in Speech Communication and Rhetoric. He and wife Carissa are the proud parents of one daughter and two sons: Evelina, Adler, and Luther. Beyond work, Shawn enjoys spending time with his family and friends, boating, golfing, and playing guitar.