For nearly two decades, Shelli Vasser Gilliam has called Cameron Station home. This year, she is being recognized beyond the neighborhood as one of Alexandria’s 40 Over 40 honorees – an acknowledgment of her remarkable leadership, unwavering commitment to service, and lasting impact on the community.
Shelli’s career has been defined by connecting people and purpose. From working with the City of Alexandria under former Vice Mayor and City Councilwoman Del Pepper and serving nonprofit trade associations to launching her own business, she has consistently focused on building partnerships that strengthen communities. Today, as Director of Development at Community Lodgings, she oversees events, communications, partnerships, and grant writing for the nonprofit, whose mission is to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty through housing and youth education.
When Shelli joined Community Lodgings, the organization was facing a financial deficit. By increasing visibility, strengthening community partnerships, and amplifying its mission, she helped lead a remarkable turnaround. Just eight months later, the organization was operating in the black, and three years later it continues to enjoy a financial surplus.
“My mission is to do things with passion or not at all,” Shelli says, quoting Rosa Nouchette Carey. That philosophy has shaped her career in human services and continues to fuel her work every day.
Her definition of success, however, has evolved. Earlier in her career, success meant perfection or exceeding ambitious goals. Today, she believes success is found in consistent, intentional progress.
“Progression, not perfection,” she says. “Each and every day, be diligent and deliberate in making change. Ultimately, success is in the attempt.”
Shelli credits her faith with guiding both her personal and professional life. She believes faith and service naturally go hand in hand, inspiring her to use her gifts, relationships, and experience to serve others – particularly hardworking immigrant families seeking stability and opportunity. She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining authentic relationships and following through on commitments, values that helped Community Lodgings earn Alexandria’s 2025 Overall Business of the Year Award.
At home in Cameron Station, Shelli finds the same spirit of connection that inspires her professionally. “I’ve lived in Cameron Station for 19 years. It is a beautiful community. People look out for each other. It’s safe, welcoming, and offers many opportunities for families to connect.”
Shelli finds her balance outside of work through friendship, music, and the tactile art of mosaic-making. Her deepest sense of peace comes from the ocean, drawing on a lifelong connection forged during summers spent along the New Jersey shore.
She is equally passionate about mentoring others. Whether formally guiding emerging leaders or simply leading by example, Shelli believes genuine relationships create opportunities for others to grow. “You never know who’s watching. Just by being your authentic self, you can open the door for someone without even realizing it.”
As Alexandria celebrates its 40 Over 40 honorees, Cameron Station proudly celebrates one of its own – a neighbor whose passion, leadership, and servant heart continue to make a meaningful difference throughout our city.
Visit the Chamber ALX Programs webpage to view the “40 Over 40” honorees and award details.
Ava Avila and her husband Justin chose Cameron Station as their home in 2019. They briefly moved to Hawaii in 2020 and relocated back to the community in 2024. Ava serves as a subcommittee member of the Communications Committee for the Welcome Committee and The Compass blog. On most days, you’ll find her at the gym enjoying the workout classes or practicing with her choir – a passion that has taken her all the way to Carnegie Hall!
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