Name: Shauna Conway (maiden name Crehan)
Class Year: 2004
Title: Founder & Executive Leader
Organization Name: Strategic Growth and Innovation (SG+I)
1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?
I lead an advisory strategy firm that partners with organizations to navigate the complexities of digital innovation, data management, AI strategy, and cybersecurity—driving sustainable growth, mitigating risk, and achieving transformative business outcomes.
2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?
My journey into technology and strategy was both intentional and serendipitous. During the summers in high school and my first two years of college, I worked at law firms and the Concord District Court, where I developed a strong foundation in analytical thinking and understanding complex systems. My junior year, a friend across the hall in Mulledy introduced me to an opportunity at Thomson Reuters, where I was exposed to the world of technology and data, sparking my interest in how information could drive business decisions. In my senior year, I attended a career fair and met representatives from FactSet. I was intrigued by their consulting training program, which required quick learning, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex solutions effectively. I joined FactSet after graduation, where the analytical rigor and client-facing nature of the role aligned with my strengths and passion for problem-solving. Throughout my career, I’ve found that roles are a good fit when they inspire learning, offer opportunities to add value, and present challenges that drive growth. This mindset has guided my journey, ultimately leading me to pursue leadership positions where I could shape strategy and drive innovation.
3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?
While at Holy Cross, I focused on building strong community ties. In Student Government and as a Student Affairs Judicial Liaison, I played a key role in making the campus smoke-free, promoting health, and fostering good community membership. I also contributed to constructing the first on-campus student apartments, aligning closely with my work on the ‘Civitas Branching’ Mosaic—a collaboration with Worcester residents to create a lasting symbol of partnership and connection. This experience fostered cultural understanding, teamwork, and civic engagement, which are integral to my professional life today. During my senior year, we also formed the Off Campus Student Union (OCSU), creating connections between Holy Cross students, City Hall, local police, and the community. Though my time with Mock Trial was brief, it still provided invaluable experience in teamwork, quick thinking, and communication—skills that I continue to leverage.
4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?
I majored in Economics, which provided a critical framework for understanding market forces, decision-making, and problem-solving. The rigorous education in economic theory and data analysis, paired with a liberal arts approach to learning, shaped my ability to assess problems from multiple perspectives. This adaptability and strategic thinking have been crucial in how I approach technology investments and business growth throughout my career.
5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?
Holy Cross honed my analytical thinking and collaboration—skills essential to my role today as I work closely with clients to craft strategies and drive change. Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and early work experiences also taught me resilience and a strong work ethic, both vital for leadership in a constantly evolving tech landscape.
6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?
Be bold—take risks, and don’t fear failure; every mistake is an opportunity to learn. Let your values guide you, making an impact in line with Holy Cross’s mission of leadership and service. And go after what excites and challenges you—true growth happens when you step into the unknown.
