She Helped Secure $7.2M for Community Programs. Now Shownda J. Pagan Will Lead Miami Affordable Magazine’s Board

Shownda J. Pagan, who has secured and administered about $7.2 million in grant funding to support impactful programs and long-term community growth to date, has joined Miami Affordable Magazine's Board of Directors as president. Pagan is the CEO of Belafonte TACOLCY Center.

At the TACOLCY Center, Pagan leads programs that strengthen youth, families, and communities. With experience across corporate, nonprofit, faith-based, and community sectors, Pagan has developed a strong reputation for strategic planning, program development, operational leadership, and systems change.

Pagan believes Liberty City needs a platform like Miami Affordable Magazine that addresses community issues with honesty, transparency, and accountability, she said. She is committed to supporting efforts that share resources, elevate community voices, and advocate for one of life’s basic rights: access to affordable housing.

Miami Affordable Magazine is a nonprofit digital news magazine covering affordable housing and is billed the first news outlet to do so in South Florida. The community-based publication is dedicated to making housing information accessible by offering free content. Areas of coverage include Liberty City.

Pagan extends her sincere appreciation to Miami Affordable Magazine for designating her as President of the Board, she said.

"It will be my pleasure to serve in this role and contribute to the magazine’s mission of informing, empowering, and advocating for the community," she said.

Billy Jean Louis, CEO & founder of Miami Affordable Magazine, said he couldn't think of anyone else who would be a better fit for this role.

"Pagan is a trusted community leader who is leading a top nonprofit in Liberty City. She made an impact on the magazine even before the news outlet launched by guiding me with just everything, such as strategic planning," said Jean Louis, who also serves as the magazine's editor-in-chief.

Driven by a commitment to helping others succeed, Pagan has dedicated her career to removing barriers, expanding access, and creating opportunities for individuals and families facing social and economic challenges.

Her leadership includes oversight of community programs, out-of-school time initiatives, family support services, and service projects designed to meet real community needs.

Pagan is recognized for her ability to build infrastructure, clarify goals, train teams, strengthen operations, and guide organizations through complex challenges with practical, mission-driven solutions, she said.

Throughout her professional journey, Pagan said she has remained "committed to positive change, community empowerment, and excellence in service."

"My leadership continues to position me as a trusted voice in organizational development, nonprofit leadership, and community transformation across South Florida and beyond," Pagan said.