About Shawnda

Person with reddish hair in a black blouse holding a pink laptop, standing near plants and flowers indoors.

With 30 years of experience in politics, Westly’s current clients include the Political Strategist & Donor Advisor for Smart Justice California and general advice for the California Nurses Association.


She serves as a gubernatorial appointee as President of the State Personnel Board and previously served as a member of the CalPERS Board and consultant for the California Professional Firefighters.

During her time at the helm of the California Democratic Party under Party Chair John L. Burton, she held the roles of Executive Director and Senior Strategist, where she led an aggressive 2010 turnout operation that aided in Democrats sweeping all statewide offices, during a year that saw Republicans make gains across the nation.  

In 2012, the CDP played a large role in electing 6 new Democratic Congressional members from targeted districts. In 2014, the CDP was a major force to re-elect Gov. Jerry Brown, re-elect Democrats to all statewide offices and pick up yet another Congressional seat in a heavily Republican year.

Westly’s early days in politics began as an organizer—a skill that continues to guide her work today.

Beyond Westly’s professional life, she’s a passionate advocate for patient safety and LGBTQ causes in her volunteer time.