With a career in journalism already under his belt, Shaun Newell heads the Marketing and Communications Department at The Center for Prevention of Abuse, fostering original ideas to promote the organization’s cause. As Director of Marketing and Communications, he oversees all communications and fundraising events, coordinating with 105 staff members across six area locations and working to build relationships with clients and the public. He also leads the Center's donation and volunteer program and assists the executive director in networking with potential donors and volunteers.

In his first year at the Center, Newell helped spur the annual Duck Race to record-setting success, raising nearly $200,000, and spearheaded the Be the Bridge fundraiser, raising $10,000 in 24 hours to offset the impact of the Illinois state budget impasse. He also led efforts for Heart Technologies’ Great Heart Give contest, helping the Center win a $10,000 technology grant.

Prior to joining the Center, Newell was a familiar voice as news director of WMBD radio, where he led news coverage for more than six years. He went on to become news assignment manager at WEEK-TV, where he covered some of the biggest stories of 2013—including the Washington tornado, for which the WEEK News team earned the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award.

Newell is heavily involved with Peoria Rotary North, assisting with its canned food drive and back-to-school supply drive for the Peoria Regional Learning Center at Wildlife Prairie Park; sitting on the Community Grants, Public Relations and Membership committees; and serving as a Rotary Reader for children at Roosevelt Magnet School. He also sits on the board of directors for the gitm (Gifts in the Moment) Foundation, which works to provide access to fresh, local produce—especially in food desert areas. He also volunteers for events at the Center, maintaining a strong dedication to his work, whether on or off the clock. iBi