Dr. Allison Shapira

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Allison Shapira is an Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, specializing in leadership communication with a focus on helping leaders speak with confidence and clarity, particularly during times of complexity and change. She is the founder and CEO of Global Public Speaking, an executive communication firm that has collaborated with leaders across government, business, and nonprofit sectors, including heads of state and Fortune 100 executives. Allison integrates her real-world experience with research-backed strategies, drawing from her training as an opera singer to help leaders convey their messages with authenticity and presence. Her work also involves guiding leaders on the effective use of AI to enhance rather than replace their leadership voice. She holds a Mid-Career Master in Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School and a Bachelor of Arts in Italian Language and Literature from Boston University, with a minor in Vocal Performance. Allison is a professional member of the National Speakers Association and a past president of the HKS DC Alumni Council. She is the author of 'Speak Impact: Command Room Influence' and her upcoming book 'AI Authentic Leader: Communicate Effectively Losing Humanity' is set to be published in October 2025. Shapira has been featured in major publications like the Wall Street Journal, New York Bloomberg, and Forbes, and she is a regular contributor to Harvard Business Review. In 2017, she was recognized by the National Association of Women Business Owners (San Diego Chapter) as a finalist for Woman Business Owner of the Year. One of her proudest moments was singing the American National Anthem at the Boston Red Sox's Fenway Park in 2004. An avid polyglot, she speaks several languages fluently.

Research Interests

Courses

The Arts Communication DPI-802M

Requirements for Harvard Kennedy School

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:25
Reading
Required:25
Writing
Required:25
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
GMAT
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Quantitative proficiency (statistics and/or calculus recommended) Commitment to public service
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Four essays
  • Resume/CV
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • $100 application fee
Specialization Notes

The MPP is a two-year professional program focused on policy analysis and leadership.