WASHINGTON, DC — The League of Women Voters today announced two key appointments: haley griffin as the next chief of staff and Shonali Burke as the next chief of marketing and strategic communications, strengthening the organization’s executive leadership team at a pivotal moment for American democracy. 

In these roles, griffin and Burke will help advance the League’s mission to empower voters and defend democracy through leadership and communications that directly support voter education and participation. 

"haley and Shonali bring extraordinary talent and a level of grit that this moment demands," said Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters. "Their decades of experience across advocacy, communications, and strategy will be critical as we position the League to meet this moment—and win for voters nationwide."

griffin brings more than 20 years of experience advancing democracy, equity, and social justice. Prior to joining the League, she served as a senior advisor at The Blueprint Strategy Group and as principal and head of strategic planning at Raben, where she advised national nonprofits, advocacy organizations, and foundations on strategic growth, governance, crisis management, and policy initiatives. In these roles, griffin managed campaigns on issues including voting rights, gender equity, and criminal justice reform. 

"I’m honored to join the League at such a critical time for our democracy," said griffin. "The League’s legacy of protecting voting rights and strengthening civic participation is deeply inspiring, and I look forward to helping advance that mission alongside this team and our nationwide members."

With more than 20 years’ experience in data-forward, outcome-driven brand elevation, Burke is known for her signature blend of analytics and storytelling that helps nonprofits build stronger relationships, expand their reach, and strengthen community. Before joining the League, she served as managing director of People’s Light, becoming the first Indian American to lead a US-based League of Resident Theatres (LORT) theater in this role. She has served organizations as diverse as the ASPCA, which she steered through the 2007 pet food recall and Michael Vick case; USA for UNHCR, for whom she designed its now‑textbook digital “Blue Key” campaign; and Washington, DC’s iconic Arena Stage, where she helped steer its post-pandemic earned revenue and audience rebound.

"How we communicate the importance of civic participation matters—especially at a time our democracy faces real threats," said Burke. "There is no more important work in this moment. I am honored to join my colleagues and this community in carrying The League’s century-plus legacy of nonpartisan voter education and empowerment into the future."

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