
Shannon “Jolie” Whiteaker founded Jolie Whiteaker Public Affairs, LLC (JWPA) in 2020, a milestone in her distinguished 15-year career in public policy and advocacy. An Arizona native, Whiteaker has cultivated deep relationships with public officials, legislative staff, and municipal leaders across the state, earning a reputation as a trusted and effective advocate. Her extensive knowledge of government processes and private-sector dynamics enables her to forge strategic partnerships that drive impactful results for clients.
Whiteaker has a proven track record of advancing client objectives through tailored advocacy. She has served as the chief legislative officer for the Arizona Department of Health Services, where she successfully championed public health initiatives at the State Capitol. Her private-sector experience further sharpened her ability to navigate complex legislative and regulatory landscapes, delivering measurable outcomes for diverse organizations.
Her commitment to integrity and ethical leadership defines her approach. Inspired by her father’s call at a young age to engage in civic life, she immersed herself in Arizona’s political process, building a career grounded in honesty and principled advocacy. Her expertise is complemented by a dual bachelor’s degree in Political Science and American History from Arizona State University and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.
While in Chicago, Whiteaker gained valuable experience as a paralegal at a law firm and as an intern in the Office of the Press Secretary for then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Back in Arizona, she served as an analyst and constituent liaison for the City of Phoenix and the Arizona Corporation Commission, deepening her public service expertise.
Today, Whiteaker leads JWPA with a passion for shaping policies that matter, confident in her ability to deliver results with honor and precision. She remains dedicated to building trust and achieving client success through strategic, principled advocacy.