Vice President, NAEHCY Board of Directors
Director, Opportunity Scholars Program, University of South Carolina – Salkehatchie
Hampton County, SC Magistrate
Former ARP-HCY Analyst for Project Hope-College of William & Mary
(Hampton, SC)
Lakeshia Allen’s career has been dedicated to advocating for youth, families, and marginalized individuals. Whether helping students stay in school, supporting first-generation college students, or connecting homeless youth to resources, her passion has always been about giving people a fair shot. Now, she gets to do that from the bench.
As a magistrate, she handles a range of responsibilities including signing warrants, setting bonds, conducting preliminary hearings, and presiding over small claims and traffic court. It requires a strong knowledge of the law, good judgment, and a calm, impartial demeanor.
She believes in the work of NAEHCY because it is essential for promoting educational equity, addressing basic needs, breaking the cycle of poverty, advancing social justice, and driving policy change to create a more inclusive and supportive educational system.
Lakeshia believes integrity, respect, and kindness are the traits that help build trust and foster strong connections. “When you demonstrate good character, you’re not just making the world a better place, you’re also enriching your own life.”
Degrees, Certificates, Awards & Accomplishments
- Bachelor’s degree, Virginia State University
- Master’s in Public Administration, Strayer University
- Emerging Nonprofit Leaders Program (ENLP)
- Grace Harris Leadership Institute (GEHLI)
- Raymond D. Patterson Award
- Style Weekly Profile
- Grassroots Urban Gardner
Interests and Hobbies
- Travelling
- Coaching robotics (FLL and VEX IQ)
- Softball
- Collecting earrings
- Teaching free fitness classes