CEO Profile

Shirley M. Dawson is the Chairperson and CEO of the International Protocol Academy Incorporated®.  Ms. Dawson is a graduate of the Protocol School of Washington^® and is a native of  North Carolina. Ms. Dawson received practical training from direct interaction with experts in the protocol/hospitality profession such as a former Chief of Protocol at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a former Deputy Director of Protocol for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and from her father, a retired colonel who served as the former Chief of Protocol for Langley Air Force Base.  Her social graces, attitude and professional demeanor were well-established at an early age.

Further, Ms. Dawson is an accomplished attorney who has overseen multi-million dollar contracts for major pharmaceutical corporations worldwide. Ms. Dawson was the first female employed by the National Football League’s Coaches Association. In addition, she previously served as an advisor for development of community and national events such as the 2000 All-Star Game and the National Kids Day Initiative for Major League Baseball during her tenure with the Atlanta Braves.

As a result of her global interactions with clients and passion for teaching law to national and international students, she started the International Protocol Academy^® to further develop client’s diplomatic etiquette in the business environment.

Ms. Dawson is an active member in the American Bar Association.