Dr. Shawntia Key is a higher education professional specializing in international education and intercultural competency and communication. 

Her experience in strategic planning, program and curriculum development, and advising derive from her passion for diversifying and improving programs and products to fit a more multi-cultural and diverse audience. 

Dr. Key realized her passion for cultural competency and international education while an undergraduate, mentoring international students and briefly studying in Japan at Kansai Gaidai University. Continuing her education and traveling to China, Dr. Key obtained her TESOL certificate while working as a US culture lecturer and consultant at a Chinese university and several private organizations. Returning to the US, she enhanced her cultural and student services specialization by continuing her work in non-profits, private and member-based organizations, and educational institutions.  

Dr. Shawntia Key has a Doctorate in higher education management with her dissertation focusing on Black American Undergraduates Studying Abroad: What Are Their Intentions and Behaviors? She also has a Master’s in international education and a Bachelor’s in international studies.

As of 2021, Dr. Key has traveled to 14 countries, including Aruba, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, India, Italy, Ireland, Japan, London, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, and several states in the United States of America. 

In her free time, Dr. Key is the CEO and Founder of URep Abroad, an organization that brings visibility to the diverse voices and experiences in the international education field.