About

Throughout my life, I have strived to constantly learn and grow. I was working in academia prior to my marriage. After becoming a mother, I immersed myself in the world of picture books and children’s literature. Today, I am a consultant, striving to help others unlock their full potential. Combining my years of knowledge and experience, I work relentlessly to bring energy and passion to everything I am involved with.

After graduating with a Masters in Nutrition from the University of Bombay, I worked as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology. It was here that I found a love for research and developing curriculum to suit a wide variety of audiences. However, soon after I would marry my husband and embark on a completely different journey, one which would start in South Carolina.

Over fifteen years ago we made our move to Abilene, TX, a city in which I would watch my children grow, develop life-long friendships, and learn to call my home. Starting out as a volunteer at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL), a museum exhibiting picture book art, I was soon hired as part of the staff. I served as the Director of Exhibitions & Education Programming. During my tenure, I worked with over 40 award-winning artists in various capacity, including as a co-curator for several retrospectives, most notably, ‘Our Voice: Celebrating the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Awards.’ I successfully spearheaded multi-faceted projects in which I presented potential artists and exhibition ideas to the selection committee and authored all the exhibition-related materials and press releases. In addition, I designed exhibition-related print pieces—such as announcements, brochures, bookmarks, banners, created exhibition related programming, and gave creative direction the NCCIL’s website renovation project. Fortunate to have worked with, and be inspired, by some of the best in the publishing industry, there was no greater joy for me than to be an ambassador between the artist and the community.

Circumstances change, and my time at the place ended abruptly after a change in the administration. I decided to shift gears and, today, I wear many hats. As a freelance consultant, I bring the same drive and passion in all the projects I undertake. I look forward to making a difference.

Copyright © 2019 Sujata Shahane