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Khalia Shaw is a nonprofit development and communications strategist with more than a decade of experience advancing philanthropic institutions and mission-driven organizations. Based in her hometown of Cleveland, OH, she serves with The Cleveland Orchestra as part of its Growth & Content team, a division elevated from Development Operations to support strategy, infrastructure, and alignment across development, communications, and marketing.

In this role, Khalia leads prospect research and data-informed strategy that strengthens major and principal giving efforts while enhancing cross-team integration. Her work centers on building systems that translate insight into action, ensuring that fundraising, storytelling, and organizational growth move in rhythm.

Khalia is also the founder of The Khalia Effect, a consulting practice entering its third year of service to small and mid-sized nonprofit leaders. Through strategic fundraising counsel, communications planning, and capacity-building support, she partners with organizations committed to equity, cultural stewardship, and collective advancement. Her approach blends analytical precision with lived understanding of community dynamics, helping leaders build durable infrastructure in complex civic landscapes.

Previously, Khalia served on the Advisory Board of Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School, her alma mater, and on the Fairfax Recreation Center Advisory Board in her childhood neighborhood. During her tenure, she contributed to board governance, strategic communications, and infrastructure development. She stepped away from formal board service to prioritize her expanding leadership responsibilities at The Cleveland Orchestra and to be present in this milestone season as the proud mother of a college senior. She continues to support VASJ through mentorship, strategic counsel, and community engagement.

Across every role, Khalia remains grounded in values of shared responsibility, unity, and creative vision. Her work is shaped by a belief that strong institutions and strong communities are built through intentional design, cultural awareness, and disciplined stewardship.

She finds inspiration in the writings of James Baldwin, J. California Cooper, and Nikki Giovanni, and in the daily practice of nurturing legacy both at home and in the public square.