-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Shamill Ross?
I’m a proud product of a family and community that poured into me, taught me the value of showing up, and gave me my voice. I am outspoken by nature and purpose-led by choice. I am deeply committed to advocating for the underdog and creating spaces rooted in belonging, dignity and love. I believe in people, connection and the responsibility we have to pour back into the places that raised us.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I come from a proud military family. My mom was in the Navy when she had me. I’m the oldest of three, so responsibility found me early. I was born in San Diego. My early years were spent between Roanoke and the Philippines as my mom followed her orders. Those transitions taught me how to adapt, how to trust and how to find home wherever my people were.
I grew up in a large family. My grandmother had ten children — so I was never without someone to laugh with, learn from or lean on. And my goodness, we laughed a lot! Our gatherings were filled with jokes, storytelling, and that kind of laughter that makes your stomach hurt and your face tired.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I attended Ferrum College, where I majored in Social Work and Political Science. The college motto, “Not Self But Others,” immediately resonated with me and became a guiding principle for how I would serve and show up in the world.
At Ferrum, I had the chance to lead campus organizations, but even more importantly, I learned from people whose experiences and backgrounds were very different from my own. I got to challenge societal norms, have my own assumptions challenged, and grow in ways that shaped not just my career path, but my perspective on community, advocacy, and the responsibility we have to one another.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am a Senior Risk Analyst at Allstate Insurance Company, where I’ve proudly spent the last 20 years. In my role, I focus on governance, ensuring we stay compliant with state privacy laws. Also, protecting information while helping the company operate with integrity and care.
Advocacy and community have always been central to my life. I recently retired as the Global Chair for Allstate’s PRIDE Employee Impact Group, where I had the privilege of creating spaces for celebration, education, and visibility for LGBTQ+ employees around the world.
I currently serve as the LGBTQ+ Chair for the Roanoke Branch of the NAACP and sit on the board of the Council of Community Services, continuing my work to advocate, educate and celebrate the lived experiences of the community.
How important is family to you?
Family is everything to me — whether it’s the one you’re born into or the one you choose along the way. Connection is essential for all humans to thrive, and I’ve seen firsthand how love and presence can shape resilience, confidence, and purpose. My family modeled what it means to hold space for one another, celebrate each other’s wins, and lean on one another in times of need. Family isn’t just about blood; it’s about the village that nurtures you, challenges you, and reminds you of who you are every single day.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Without a doubt, my all-time favorite artist is Anita Baker, so she would certainly be on it. Same for Beyonce. I am also a huge fan of Jazmine Sullivan and the bands ABBA and Junkyard. My playlist would basically be a mix of heart, power, and fun.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
My favorite moments are wrapped up in family, community and pure joy. I’ll never forget the Henry Street Festival back when it was actually on Henry Street. As a child, going with my family, I felt the heartbeat of my community all around me — the music, the food, the celebrations — and it made me proud of the city I came from.
I also treasure memories of the block parties in Lincoln Terrace at the community building. Growing up there, every year felt like a huge family reunion. Dancing to the music, playing games with the other kids, smelling the food in the air, and just soaking in that sense of togetherness — those moments made me feel seen, connected and joyful.
What are some of your hobbies?
One of my favorite ways to spend time is exploring National Parks. There’s something about being surrounded by nature — the mountains, the trails, the quiet beauty of the outdoors — that refreshes my mind and nourishes my soul. I love hiking trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and taking in breathtaking views. Every park has its own story, and I love experiencing that sense of wonder while making memories along the way.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
There are so many people who have shaped my life, but if I had to name the single most influential person, it would be my best friend’s mom, Doris Riggins. She’s known me since I was 10, and over the years, she has been so much more than just a friend’s parent — she’s been my sounding board, my counselor, my supporter, my hero, and my biggest teacher.
Doris has a way of seeing the best in people, even when they can’t see it themselves. She’s taught me lessons about strength, grace, and perseverance that have stayed with me to this day. Her guidance and unwavering belief in me have shaped how I approach the world with compassion and courage
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I would say this: trust yourself, your voice, and your instincts. Life will challenge you, push you, and sometimes make you question your worth, but you are stronger and more capable than you realize. Don’t be afraid to speak up, take risks, and stand in your own power.
Surround yourself with people who lift you, challenge you, and remind you of your value. And above all, remember that it’s okay to grow at your own pace — life isn’t a race, it’s a journey, and every step you take, even the messy ones, is shaping the person you’re meant to become.
