Shawna Thomas

Shawna is a proud native of St. Thomas who spent much of her educational journey in Florida. As a devoted mother of three daughters, she balances family life with a strong commitment to personal and professional growth. She describes herself as hardworking and driven, always striving to be her best and eager to learn. Known for going above and beyond to help others, Shawna finds deep fulfillment in supporting those around her, even when it requires extra effort. She joined the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in 2025 as a Compliance Analyst, where she plays a key role in monitoring federal grant expenditures and ensuring adherence to both federal and local regulations. Her responsibilities include reviewing financial documentation and working closely with agencies to develop and implement corrective action plans. Shawna values the purpose behind her work, knowing that her efforts contribute to accountability and the proper use of public funds. Before joining OMB, Shawna began her career at the Department of Education as a classroom paraprofessional. Her transition into grants introduced her to a fast-paced and challenging environment that she quickly grew to love. During this time, she gained valuable experience and earned her certification as a Certified Program Manager. Her work in the Federal Division sparked a growing interest in compliance and accountability, ultimately leading her to her current role. While she notes that compliance work is more methodical compared to grants, she appreciates the depth and responsibility it brings. Looking ahead, Shawna is focused on continued growth within the agency. She aspires to take on more strategic responsibilities, where she can contribute to improving systems and strengthening accountability across agencies. Her journey so far reflects resilience and determination qualities she is proud of, along with her ability to balance career, education, and family while continuing to push toward her goals. What motivates Shawna most is the sense of purpose in her work. Each day presents an opportunity to learn, refine her skills, and grow professionally. She embraces challenges as opportunities to build patience, discipline, and wisdom. At the heart of her drive is her commitment to her family and her vision for the future, which keeps her focused and moving forward. Outside of work, Shawna has a vibrant and joyful personality. She enjoys spending quality time with her family, dancing, socializing, journaling, and taking peaceful walks along the beach or in nature. If given the chance to travel anywhere in the world, she would choose a destination like Greece or Bali, places that offer tranquility, scenic beauty, and the opportunity to relax, reflect, and recharge. For those starting out in a similar role, Shawna emphasizes the importance of patience and persistence. She encourages others to stay organized, ask questions, remain consistent, and embrace growth. For her, success comes from trusting the process and staying committed to continuous improvement.