Shayna Fader ’11: Empowering Leadership at Meta and Beyond

Shayna Fader ’11, a Baldwin Board of Trustees member and Co-Chair of the Alumnae Leadership Council, has come a long way since graduating in 2011. From her years at Baldwin to her current role as a Product Manager at Meta, Shayna’s journey has been shaped by the leadership, collaboration and problem-solving skills she developed during her time at Baldwin. “Baldwin has shaped who I am in so many ways,” Shayna reflects. “From the lifelong friends I made there to the confidence I gained, Baldwin was where I learned to speak up, advocate for myself and lead with conviction. I never imagined myself in a role like the one I’m in now, but Baldwin gave me the foundation to get here.”

 

After Baldwin, Shayna attended the University of Pennsylvania and earned her MBA from the prestigious Wharton School in 2022. Now based in New York City, Shayna is deeply embedded in the tech world. She is a product manager at Meta, leading cross-functional teams to create innovative products that resonate with users worldwide.

 

As a product manager, Shayna’s role is multifaceted, requiring a blend of strategic vision and collaborative execution. “A product manager is a team leader. I lead cross-functional teams of engineers, designers, data scientists and researchers to build products. I’m responsible for driving the product vision, setting strategies and ensuring that all decisions align with broader company goals. It’s a role that requires creativity and data-driven decision-making,” she explains.

 

One of the aspects of her role that Shayna values most is the opportunity to work with diverse voices and perspectives. “A successful product manager not only values diverse opinions but actively seeks them out when they aren't immediately available. At Baldwin, I learned how to listen, debate and respect differing opinions. We were encouraged to engage in discussions and explore a variety of viewpoints. These experiences have helped me in my work today, where incorporating diverse perspectives is key to creating successful products.”

 

Shayna’s experiences at Baldwin shaped her leadership abilities in ways that continue to influence her work. “Baldwin gave me so many leadership opportunities, both formal and informal. From student government to being a team captain, I learned how to lead and inspire others. These skills have proven invaluable in my current role, where leadership and communication are paramount.”

 

Her time at Baldwin was not just about building academic and leadership skills but also about forming lasting friendships and enjoying the small moments that made her high school experience memorable. “There are too many great memories to count. From the big events like Banner Day and Ring Day to the everyday moments — early morning swim practice with classmates, late-night talks with friends and the fun times we shared in the lounge or class — these are the moments that really stick with me,” she reminisces.

 

As both an alumna and a trustee, Shayna is committed to ensuring Baldwin’s continued success and relevance in an ever-changing world. “Baldwin has always thrived at setting students up for success, not just in the next four years of college but in the world beyond. As the world changes rapidly, Baldwin must adapt while holding on to the core traditions and values that make a Baldwin girl so special. Our students must be prepared for college and the complex, interconnected world they will enter after graduation.”

 

Shayna’s role as Co-Chair of the Alumnae Leadership Council and her position on the Strategic Design Planning Committee highlight her dedication to shaping Baldwin’s future. “Baldwin’s rich history and traditions are invaluable, bringing Baldwin girls together across generations. I’m so proud to be part of a school that continues to foster a strong sense of community while evolving to meet the challenges of today’s rapidly changing world.”

 

Shayna's journey from Baldwin to Meta is a testament to the power of a strong educational foundation and the lasting impact of the Baldwin experience. As she continues to lead in the tech industry and support Baldwin’s mission as a trustee, she remains a shining example of how the Baldwin community prepares its students for leadership, innovation and success in every field they pursue.