Two-time AAMU alumna Shundreka R. Givan has been named the Kentucky Division Administrator for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Currently serving as the Acting Deputy Division Administrator in the California Division, Givan provides leadership and direction to the division office in the administration and delivery of the annual $5 billion Federal-aid Highway Program in collaboration with federal, state, and local officials. The Federal-aid Highway Program provides financial assistance for the construction, maintenance and operations of the nation’s highways and roads.
Givan, a native of Montgomery, Alabama, began her career with the FHWA in the Massachusetts Division as a Community Planner in 2007 after interning with the City of Huntsville and serving as a Transportation Planner with the city for four years.
Her previous roles include Acting Division Administrator and Deputy Division Administrator in the South Carolina Division, Project Development Team Leader in Mississippi, Senior Transportation Planning Specialist in Florida and Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands, and Environmental and Transportation Planning Coordinator/Air Quality Specialist in Texas.
Givan earned both her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology (1999), and her master’s degree in urban and regional planning (MURP) with a concentration in transportation (2004) from Alabama A&M. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and a Ruby member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
“I am still in awe because I know that this is so much bigger than me,” says Givan. “This is for women everywhere and I am very grateful to serve. I know that there will be challenges ahead; however, I am looking forward to leading the Kentucky Division staff in the successful delivery of the Federal-aid Highway program.”
Givan also gives back. She has served in FHWA’s Formal Mentoring program and currently serves as a mentor in the AAMU Department of Community and Regional Planning Formal Mentoring program.
“The Hill and its village remain with me,” she says. “My professors have always been a phone call away; providing guidance, advice and even prayers. Alabama A&M University has been the solid foundation that has prepared me well for my career. As my AAMU mentor, Dr. Constance J. Wilson, would always say, ‘that degree works!’”