Today, we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Doty. Shannon was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Valentina Forero.
Hi Shannon, we’re so thrilled to have you sharing your story with us today. Maybe we can kick things off by having you introduce yourself to our readers? We’d love to have you go into your story and how you got to where you are today.
When I reflect on how I got to where I am today, it feels like a journey that’s come full circle, with a few unexpected but rewarding detours along the way.
My academic journey began at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. It was here that I first developed a deep interest in understanding human behavior and how it shapes the world around us. This interest led me to pursue a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication at the University of Delaware, where I learned to blend my passion for psychology with the art of communication. I immersed myself in marketing, public relations, and strategic communication, and later deepened my expertise with leadership and executive persuasion training at the University of Pennsylvania.
Armed with these skills, I began my professional career at the Madison House Autism Foundation, where I focused on digital media and marketing for a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting autistic adults. This experience instilled in me a passion for mission-driven work and advocacy, which continues to be a guiding force in my career.
In 2017, I joined the membership marketing department at the American Psychological Association (APA), and it’s been an incredible journey since then. My work spans global marketing campaigns, member acquisition and retention, social media management, and e-commerce. One of the highlights has been managing APA’s Campus Ambassador Program, which engages students globally and helps promote APA’s mission and brand.
But my work isn’t just about numbers and campaigns; it’s about making a meaningful impact. That’s why I also dedicate time to advocacy efforts through my work with A-Team of Delaware, a grassroots organization that champions the rights of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) in the state.
Outside of work, I find balance and joy in the simpler things—whether it’s hiking, taking on creative DIY projects, or experimenting in the kitchen. My pets, Chewy and Moose, my cat Sherman, and quality time with my boyfriend Greg and family are what ground me and keep me inspired.
This journey has been about growth, both personally and professionally, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.
Let’s talk about your work and career – what else should we know?
Shannon Doty is an accomplished marketing professional working at the intersection of psychology and strategic communication. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and went on to complete her Master of Arts in Strategic Communication from the University of Delaware, where she honed her skills in marketing, public relations, and communications. Additionally, she completed leadership and executive persuasion training at the University of Pennsylvania, further enhancing her expertise. Since 2017, Shannon has been a driving force in the membership marketing department at the American Psychological Association (APA), where she has contributed to a significant increase in membership, growing from 120,000 to over 157,000 members. Her work encompasses global marketing campaigns, member acquisition and retention, social media management, member engagement, and e-commerce. She also manages APA’s Campus Ambassador Program, which engages and empowers students globally while promoting APA’s mission and brand. Shannon’s passion lies in mission-oriented work within the nonprofit sector, where she is committed to making a meaningful impact. She began her career at the Madison House Autism Foundation, focusing on digital media and marketing for a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting autistic adults. Her advocacy efforts continue today with her digital communications work at A-Team of Delaware, a grassroots organization advocating for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) in the state. In her personal time, Shannon enjoys hiking, creative projects, DIY endeavors, and cooking. She also loves spending time with her dogs, Chewy and Moose, her cat, Sherman, and cherishes quality time with her boyfriend, Greg, and her family.
So, as we mentioned to our audience earlier, you were introduced to us by Valentina Forero and Bronzed Beauty Bar and we really admire them and what they’ve built. For folks who might not be as familiar, can you tell them a bit about your experience with Bronzed Beauty Bar.
Back in March, I decided to get my first spray tan at Bronzed Beauty Bar, and I was honestly pretty nervous about it. The thought of stripping down to my underwear and getting spray-tanned by someone I’d never met was intimidating. But then I met Valentina, and all my nerves just melted away.
Valentina has this incredible ability to make you feel like you’ve known her forever, even if you’ve just met. She has such a fun and vibrant personality, and she talks you through every step, making the whole process feel comfortable and even enjoyable. Her attention to detail is amazing—she’s so meticulous, and it really shows in the results.
Her new studio is absolutely adorable, too. It’s clean, beautifully decorated, and has all the little touches that make you feel pampered. And can I just say, free parking in downtown Bethesda is practically a miracle!
The best part? The tan turned out perfect. Being on the paler side, I was worried about looking orange or unnatural, but Valentina nailed it. The color suits my cool undertones, and I felt so confident with my new bronze glow. I remember coming home to my boyfriend like, “Hey, look at me!” It was such a boost.
Since then, Valentina has become a good friend of mine. She’s not just funny and full of life—she’s also an incredible mom who always makes time to be detailed in everything she does. I’m so glad I took the plunge because now I’m a regular at Bronzed Beauty Bar, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-doty-m-a-94825923/
