Shelley D. Winn has built a career defined by dedication to maternal health, championing the well-being of women and families while fostering collaborative networks among health care professionals and volunteers. As the director of the San Diego International Birthing Project, she engages directly with community women and mothers, recruits participants and volunteers, and collaborates with local organizations, universities, nursing students, and midwives. She also delivers presentations, manages referrals and intake calls, and oversees documentation and fieldwork. Under her guidance, the organization has expanded its support services to include both mothers and fathers. Her work as a doula is integral to her role, providing emotional and physical support to pregnant women, offering pain management techniques, and connecting families with mental health resources when needed.
Ms. Winn earned a Master of Arts in Christian studies and leadership from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona, which provided her with a strong foundation in ethical leadership and service. She also holds a Master of Education from the University of Phoenix, equipping her with advanced skills in teaching and curriculum development applied throughout her work in maternal health initiatives. Her academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts and sciences from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, which laid the groundwork for her commitment to holistic care and community engagement.
Prior to assuming her current leadership role, Ms. Winn worked as a health educator with the San Diego Birthing Project. She provided vital maternal health education, empowering women with the knowledge and resources to navigate pregnancy and childbirth safely. Her initial involvement with the organization began as a participant while pregnant, a personal experience that shaped her understanding of the challenges expectant mothers face and inspired her transition into advocacy and leadership.
Ms. Winn has extensive experience serving as a community doula, supporting families through every stage of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery while ensuring both emotional well-being and physical needs are met. She emphasizes collaboration among doulas, creating an environment where families receive holistic care and support throughout the entire maternal journey.
Ms. Winn’s professional affiliations demonstrate her ongoing commitment to excellence in maternal health. She is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and has been recognized by the Honor Society of Lambda Kappa Phi. She is also a certified doula, underscoring her qualifications to provide specialized care and guidance to expectant mothers and their families.
Civic engagement is a cornerstone of Ms. Winn’s work. She volunteers with grant-finding efforts at the San Diego International Birthing Project and contributes to Habitat for Humanity, reflecting her broader commitment to serving the community. Her achievements have been recognized through awards, including the San Diego Community Inspiration Award and the Harriet Tubman Award, highlighting her impact on maternal health advocacy.
Born in San Diego, California, Ms. Winn is devoted to her family life. She is the mother of three adult children and grandmother to six grandchildren. In the future, she seeks to nurture volunteers within her organization, helping them grow into impactful community roles supporting women. She plans to pursue midwifery training to expand her medical expertise, enabling greater independence within maternal care and continuing her work as a doula. Her professional journey reflects a deep commitment to supporting pregnant women, improving birth outcomes, and empowering communities through education, mentorship, and hands-on care.