Tralonne Shorter is the founder of Youth Democracy Institute, where she oversees strategic planning and program development, forges key partnerships, and leads fundraising initiatives to advance the organization's mission of empowering youth through civic education and leadership development.  A policy strategist, civic engagement expert, and youth development advocate, Tralonne has dedicated her career to driving system change at the intersection of policy and community impact. Tralonne began her career as an advisor to a U.S. Senator and has held leadership roles at the Forum for Youth Investment, YWCA USA, the Center for Law and Social Policy, United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice.  Tralonne serves on the Board of Directors at For Love of Children and Arlington County Fair. She is also an advisory member for Arlington Public Schools' Social Studies, Math, and Teaching & Learning councils.  Tralonne earned a B.A. from Howard University. A proud mother, she is especially passionate about creating opportunities for young people to lead and thrive.