Meet Our Founder

Shanise Pearce is a transformational leader, advocate, and speaker dedicated to elevating leaders, empowering teams, and driving organizational change. With extensive experience in business analysis, risk management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Shanise has led initiatives to increase diverse hiring, build leadership pipelines, and create inclusive spaces where individuals and organizations thrive.

In 2023, Shanise was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), a journey that completely reshaped her life’s purpose. Experiencing the disparities in healthcare firsthand deepened her commitment to advocating for early detection, equitable access to care, and mental health support for underserved communities. This passion has led Shanise to found The Advocate’s Table, a safe space where anyone who wants to advocate can pull up a seat and join the fight — because WE DESERVE TO LIVE.

Shanise’s journey navigating the corporate ladder was a climb to the top, but now, instead of waiting for a seat at someone else’s table, she has built her own and is inviting the world to join her. The Advocate’s Table welcomes all who share this passion for change, a call to action, and commitment to reversing the devastating impact of cancer in vulnerable communities.

Beyond her advocacy and professional journey, Shanise is incredibly blessed to be a wife of 24 years to her best friend, Russell, and the mother of three amazing children, Naomi, Shadé, and Russ — her life’s greatest joy and strength throughout this journey. Their unwavering love and support have fueled her fight and deepened her mission to create a lasting impact.

Driving Equity, Advocacy, and Wellness

Mission:
The Advocate’s Table is committed to empowering underserved and underrepresented communities by promoting equitable access to early detection tools such as genetic testing and clinical trials, along with education and resources for breast cancer, other cancers, and illnesses. We strive to reduce health disparities, provide mental health support, and foster a culture of advocacy, awareness, and empowerment for individuals of all genders.

Vision:
Our vision is a world where equitable access to early detection, genetic testing, clinical trials, and comprehensive healthcare resources eliminates disparities in cancer outcomes. The Advocate’s Table seeks to empower individuals of all genders to take control of their health through education, advocacy, and community support, fostering a future where survivorship and wellness are attainable for everyone, regardless of background.

A Brave Journey

Our Story & Impact

From the beginning, The Advocate’s Table has been committed to closing critical gaps in awareness, early detection, and support for breast as well as other cancer diagnosis, mental health, and overall well-being—with a focus on marginalized and underrepresented communities. What started as a mission to advocate for equitable healthcare has grown into a trusted resource for patients, caregivers, and advocates alike.

Through education, policy advocacy, and community-driven initiatives, we provide critical resources, foster open conversations, and connect individuals with the support they need. Whether through our newsletters, patient support programs, or policy efforts, we empower individuals to take charge of their health, push for systemic change, and improve health outcomes for future generations.