Biography
Shiqi’s research seeks to explore the relationship between youth moral and civic identity, and community development. She hopes to elevate the moral and spiritual aspects of youth development, suggesting that a deeper understanding of human nature and purpose might bring about their latent talents. Shiqi anticipates capturing such experiences by working alongside the youth. Together, she plans to deconstruct and build an evolving system that articulates the purpose, assumptions, principles, and approaches towards youth development at the individual and community level.
Shiqi stands on the traditional land of the Ho-Chunk, a land ancestrally connected to many other Native Nations such as the Meskwaki (Sac & Fox), Peoria, Očhéthi Šakówiŋ (Great Sioux Nation), Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo), and Myaamia (Miami). Her research wouldn’t be made possible without the abundance of gifts, nutrients and wisdom this land provides.
Education and Relevant Experience
Shiqi graduated with a joint B.A. in Accounting and Finance from the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in 2016. She also holds an M.A. in Sustainable International Development from the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University. Before coming to the School of Human Ecology, Shiqi served as a project coordinator and manager. Within those roles, she worked with several non-profit organizations dedicated to community-led development, education equity, and the well-being of children and youth. Shiqi is informed by a conceptual framework that sees young people as protagonists of transformation. She believes their abilities can be fostered in the field of service. With a special interest in rural China, her previous work focused on partnering with individuals and communities to drive intellectual and spiritual awareness for social transformation.
Teaching Experience
Teaching Assistant, CSCS 125, Community and Social Change
Teaching Assistant, CSCS 460, Civil Society and Community Leadership

Department
- Civil Society & Community Studies
Degree Program
- PhD Human Ecology: Civil Society & Community Research
Contact
Email: shiqi.shen@wisc.edu