Dr. Shenise Johnson Thomas serves as Chief External Relations & Development Officer for Cleveland Public Library and the inaugural President of the Cleveland Public Library Foundation.
She is appointed to serve through March 31, 2029.
She launched the Foundation in 2019, establishing its vision, governance, and strategic direction. Within three years, she secured the institution’s first seven‑figure philanthropic gift, an unprecedented milestone that transformed the Library’s fundraising capacity and expanded its reach.
Since joining Cleveland Public Library in 2017, Dr. Johnson Thomas has guided the institution’s government affairs and development strategy, including her instrumental role in the successful 2017 levy campaign, which generated more than $110 million to advance the Library’s system‑wide facilities master plan. Her leadership continues to strengthen the Library’s financial foundation, civic partnerships, and long‑term sustainability.
A coalition builder at her core, Dr. Johnson Thomas led a city‑wide, year‑long reading initiative that convened more than 100 partners from across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The effort energized Cleveland residents of all ages to read more than 10 million minutes, elevating literacy as a shared community priority.
Throughout her career, she has championed equitable access to opportunity, ensuring that individuals and families are connected to resources that support learning, economic mobility, and cultural enrichment. Her advocacy at the local and state levels has helped secure policy and funding wins that strengthen the institutions and communities she serves.
Before joining the Library, Dr. Johnson Thomas held leadership roles at United Way of Greater Cleveland, where she oversaw community engagement and corporate volunteerism and previously led a fundraising team that generated over $4 million annually.
At Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, she directed community engagement and government affairs, advancing initiatives that improved college preparedness, supported student retention, and contributed to successful levy campaigns.
With more than two decades of nonprofit leadership experience, Dr. Johnson Thomas is recognized for her strategic insight, ability to unify diverse stakeholders, and commitment to transformational outcomes. She frequently shares her expertise on local, regional, and national platforms.
Dr. Johnson Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from The University of Akron, a master’s degree in nonprofit administration from John Carroll University, and a doctorate in higher education leadership from National American University’s John Roueche Graduate Center.
A Cleveland native, she and her husband take pride in their deep roots in the region. She draws inspiration from all forms of art and remains devoted to community service through The Links, Incorporated, Towards Employment, and various civic boards.