We recently welcomed Shannon McGinley as a new trustee to the Aspens' board. Shannon brings extensive experience in fundraising and strategy and is passionate about helping organisations grow stronger, diversify their income, and create lasting social impact. Find out more about Shannon, in our interview with her below. 

Join Us in Creating Social Impact

1. What inspired you to become a trustee for Aspens?

I have a personal stake in a more inclusive world: someone I love is autistic, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right support unlocks confidence, joy and independence. Aspens’ person-centred approach and warm, practical ethos felt like home to me, so stepping up as a trustee was an easy yes.

2. What do you do in your career and tell us about your professional background.

I’m a fundraising and strategy leader, focused on building sustainable income for charities. Before that, I worked in the NHS in cancer pathways and clinical research, then in innovation consulting, so I blend evidence, empathy and execution. These days, I lead a fundraising partnership. We work shoulder to shoulder with organisations as one team, strengthening trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships and data-led growth.

3. What do you think is the most important skill that you bring as a trustee for Aspens?

Turning complexity into a clear, funded plan - joining the dots between strategy, data and day-to-day delivery, without losing the human at the centre.

4. Why is Aspens’ work and vision for an inclusive society so important to you?

Because belonging shouldn’t be a privilege. When autistic people and those with learning disabilities have the right support, they don’t just “cope”, they thrive, contribute and enrich their communities. Aspens helps make that everyday reality, and I couldn’t be happier to be here for it. 

5. What are you looking forward to about being a trustee for Aspens?

Listening first - to the people we support, their families and our front-line teams and then helping the board and Executive team focus on what moves the needle: strong governance, sustainable income, and a one-team culture of compassion and competence that makes Aspens an even better place to live, work and flourish.

6. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Walks in the countryside, cooking for family and friends, and gently bullying houseplants (including the odd temperamental orchid in my collection) back to life. Oh, and a good book and a big mug of tea never go amiss. (Builder’s please!) 

7. What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

I went to over a dozen schools before I was 18 and was once evacuated due to a volcanic eruption. It taught me resilience, curiosity and how to find community wherever you land.

8. What is your favourite food?

Spaghetti bolognaise, especially homemade that has been in the fridge overnight. For dessert, my mum’s southern Louisiana-style pecan pie. I’m relatively sure there are enough calories in it to live for a month. 

9. If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why?

To speak and think in any language. Language opens doors; I’d love to remove barriers, listen and learn more fully and connect across every culture and communication style. 

10. Tell us a joke. 

Why did the scarecrow get promoted?
Because he was outstanding in his field.