It's hard to believe that it has been nearly a year since we so suddenly and unexpectedly lost the fabulous Tiffany Shackelford. For me, Aaron Castelo, and our 10-year-old son, Sam, 2021 has been extremely difficult as we adjust to life without Tiffany. But looking ahead, we saw a way to keep her spirit alive in the world and make a difference.

The Tiffany Shackelford Foundation has a mission inspired by its namesake’s passion for connecting people professionally and helping journalists — especially women — advance in their careers. In 2022, the foundation will work with the Online News Association to enable more women to attend their wonderful programs. More news on that in the new year. 

Although you didn’t know it, many of you helped hatch this idea for a living tribute to Tiffany. During a virtual memorial service shortly after her death, we heard so many great stories about how she had influenced friends and colleagues during her life. She was a true force. Of course, as her biggest fan, I knew this all along.  

This organization will commemorate the innovative, irrepressible, wickedly funny woman who left her mark in the online media world. But more importantly, it will carry on her dream to change the world by making more people believe in their own potential and then mentoring them to achieve it. It’s a big goal, but one fit for a powerhouse like Tiffany.

In setting up this foundation, we truly felt her absence. She was just the person we could have counted on for the creative, practical and networking advice we needed to make this a success! 

Sadly, Tiffany is no longer here to help make the world a brighter, better place. But I am committed to trying. Please consider supporting our efforts to help remember this amazing woman and to continue her legacy.