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SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — Shanel Y. Robinson had no desire to get into politics but her passion to help others led her in a different direction. Now not only is she in charge of all of Somerset County she is also paving the way as the first African American to serve as commissioner director.
Robinson, a Franklin Township resident, graduated from Rutgers University in New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Labor Studies and Employee Relations.
She then went on to serve for nine years as a Staff Sergeant and Avionics Specialist with U.S. Air Force Reserves. She has three children and three grandchildren.
After serving her country, Robinson began her career as an Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL)-certified Technologies Manager at Saint Peter’s Healthcare System in New Brunswick.
“I had no desire to be in politics,” said Robinson.
However, Robinson’s desires changed in 2009 when a melee involving hundreds of teens and adults broke out at a homecoming dance in Franklin.
The U.S. Department of Justice was called in and they were looking for someone to lead the crisis response team in Franklin.
“There was work that needed to be done to end the violence and heal the community,” said Robinson.
Robinson was appointed the lead and partnered with the township police to work with the board of education and the public in an effort to mend the situation.
“From there I got an inside look at how the government was run. I was upset on how things were going on either side of the aisle,” said Robinson. “I realized that I had more to offer and give.”
Robinson decided to run for office and was elected as Franklin Township Councilwoman in 2015 before serving as Deputy Mayor in 2018.
While she started off locally, Robinson soon got the urge to continue to serve. She was elected as formerly known Somerset County Freeholder in 2019 and then was elected as Commissioner Director in 2021.
“Since being at the county level I’ve learned how to bring different levels of government and communities together. How to navigate the water so to speak,” said Robinson. “I’ve learned how government can work.”
As the first African American to serve as the Commissioner Director of Somerset County, Robinson is modest about her accomplishment. She doesn’t like to talk about herself or brag instead she wants to empower others.
“I don’t want to be the last of the only. I want to be a role model and example for others for those who come behind me,” said Robinson.
Not only has Robinson served as a role model to others, she also serves as one to her family.
“My oldest granddaughter may have a career in politics… she has been on this journey with me. And at times while giving my speeches she is listening and pulling my coattails and telling me what I forget to talk about,” said Robinson.
Robinson is currently focused on the present and being the best she can in her new position. When asked if she wants to serve in politics in a higher position, she said, “I don’t know. I think I want to go further. I am comfortable where I am. As a woman of faith, I take it one day at a time.”
Robinson pointed to her favorite quote by Eleanor Roosevelt – “It is not fair to ask of others what you are not willing to do yourself.”
“I just want to empower people, to have people have the opportunity to come to the table and be a part of conversation and process,” said Robinson. “We are working for the people not just with the people.”
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