Shawnee Caruthers is the Director of Advocacy and host of the EduCatered podcast at Getting Smart. She is passionate about advocating for others and making sure all educators and students are engaged. She believes true engagement is achievable through human centered learning experiences, real world learning experiences and a dedication to not only powerful learning for youth, but for adults as well. Shawnee also believes in equity-centered learning that brings the people closest to the challenges to the table. 

Shawnee started her career in advertising and journalism and eventually pivoted to Career and Technical Education secondary administration. Prior to serving as the Director of Career and Technical Education, she started in the classroom where she taught English and business due to her industry experience in Marketing prior to teaching. Shawnee resides in the home of the Kansas City Chiefs, Sporting Kansas City and all things BBQ!