Counts Shanks is a senior at The University of Alabama, pursuing a double major in Public Relations and Political Science with minors in International Studies and Public Policy Studies. A native of Springdale, Arkansas, she is passionate about public service, policy, and strategic communication.  

Counts has been actively involved in several organizations during her time at UA. She serves as the Press Secretary for the Student Government Association and in leadership positions for her sorority, Chi Omega, the League of Women Voters, and the Student Organ Donation Advocates. She is also an inaugural member of the Shelby Scholars Institute of Policy and Leadership and was part of the UA Bateman Public Relations Team that recently was recognized for the second-best student-run public relations campaign in the nation. 

This semester, Counts is interning with the Global Water Security Center (GWSC) in the Communications Department, where she contributes to outreach efforts that bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding. Her expertise in public relations and strategic communication makes her a valuable addition to the team. 

We are excited to have Counts on board and look forward to her contributions to GWSC’s mission!