Champion for women and families in Memphis
Shante K. Avant has built a career centered on uplifting women, families, and communities in the Greater Memphis Area. As President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM), she has guided the nonprofit to historic milestones. Since joining WFGM in 2007, she has overseen the distribution of more than $37 million to 632 programs run by 185 Memphis-based nonprofits.
Her work directly benefits over 8,000 individuals and low-income families every year. Through her leadership, the organization has become a powerful force for economic security, education, and opportunity.
Breaking new ground in Shelby County politics
In 2022, Avant achieved a milestone that cemented her place in local history. She became the first Black woman elected to represent Shelby County’s newly formed District 5 on the County Commission. This victory reflected her deep community roots and years of public service.
Before this role, she served on the Memphis-Shelby County School Board from 2014 to 2022, including a term as Chair between 2017 and 2019. Her time on the board strengthened local education initiatives and set new standards for student support and development.
Leadership beyond one organization
Avant’s service goes far beyond her positions at WFGM and the County Commission. She sits on influential boards like the Agricenter Commission, Shelby County Agricultural Extension Committee, and Shelby Farms Park Conservancy. She also advises the University of Memphis College of Social Work and the leadership nonprofit New Memphis.
Her national reach includes work with the Partnership for Women’s Prosperity, Prosperity Together, and the Women’s Funding Network International Leadership Cohort. She is also part of the Ford Foundation Fellowship and the Ford Mobility Steering Committee.
Awards and honors marking her influence
Avant’s leadership has been recognized with numerous honors. She was named a Memphis Business Journal Superwoman in Business in 2023 and received the Tennessee State Democratic Caucus History Maker Award that same year. She has been on the Memphis Business Journal’s Power 100 list in both 2023 and 2024.
Her earlier accolades include The New Tri-State Defender’s Woman of Excellence Award and the Immaculate Conception High School Alumni of the Year Award. She also contributed to the CUBE School Board of the Year recognition in 2021.
A lifelong commitment to growth and service
Avant holds a BA in Psychology and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Tennessee. She is a proud mother and an advocate for education, philanthropy, and civic engagement. She has completed leadership training with New Memphis and Leadership Memphis, further sharpening her skills.
Through her work, Avant continues to inspire a new generation of leaders. Her journey from Memphis native to history-making public servant proves the power of dedication and vision.
