Welcoming our new Copy Editor and Designer to the team!

After an in-depth, month-long application process, we’re excited to announce our newest colleague, Shina Shayesteh. Shina will take the lead in editing, layout and design work on all our platforms, including our website, Academy, Action Lab and social media. Her attention to detail, interdisciplinary background, artistic gifts and excellent writing skills are going to make her a wonderful asset to this team.

Shina self-identifies as a jack of all trades, with an MA in History and a background in education, linguistics, research, and digital art. Although she is a native Houstonian, she currently lives in Austin with her boyfriend and dog—and also aspires to add a herd of guinea pigs to the family, someday.

When she's not enjoying the sunshine in Texas, she likes to travel and learn about the histories of other places around the world. Her experiences abroad were what first gave her insight into the challenges being faced in her own community, and she's thrilled to now play a role in helping the Strong Towns movement.

Please give a warm welcome to Shina Shayesteh!