Tralonne R. Shorter is Executive Vice President, Policy and Government Affairs. Tralonne oversees the Forum’s strategic policy development, alignment, and engagement at the federal, state, and local levels. In this role she will shape the legislative and regulatory agenda to improve outcomes for young people.

Tralonne brings more than two decades as a government relations strategist with experience on the Hill and at the national and state levels. Tralonne has significant experience spearheading issue advocacy campaigns with a focus on advancing racial justice and equitable education outcomes for students of color. She has strong expertise cultivating relationships with policymakers, boosting stakeholder engagement, and navigating the budget reconciliation and appropriations processes. Prior to joining the Forum, Tralonne led legislative affairs at the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, United Negro College Fund (UNCF), YWCA USA, and Beloved Community, LLC, a civic engagement advocacy firm she founded. Tralonne began her career in public service and held numerous leadership roles in the office of the late Senator Frank Lautenberg.

Tralonne graduated from Howard University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and is currently pursuing a master’s degree with a concentration in social justice and human rights at George Mason University. Tralonne serves on the Board of Directors for the Committee for Education Funding, as well as other civic committees throughout her community. Tralonne is the proud mother of Andrew.