Rondalyn Shirlette Kane

Rondalyn Shirlette Kane was born on August 13, 1957, in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Martin Kane Jr. and Bernita Rae (Mister) Kane. She transitioned from this earthly life on Monday, November 11, 2024.

An exceptional student with intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning, Rondalyn graduated from Milford Mill High School in just two years and went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California.

During her illustrious career, she was privileged to meet and work with U.S. Presidents, Members of Congress, Ambassadors, as well as heads of state and dignitaries from a number of countries. She began her professional life as a Policy and Political Advisor for Congressman Alan Wheat (D, MO). Subsequently, while serving as Acting Director of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, she facilitated Nelson Mandela’s meeting with CBC staff and members.

Rondalyn was a presidential appointee and senior executive in the Clinton Administration, culminating in the position of Deputy Director of the Women’s Bureau at the U.S. Department of Labor. As Executive Director of the National Council of Negro Women, she accompanied Dorothy Height to engage global peacemakers at the 2001 United Nations World Conference.

Her warm and engaging personality, coupled with her leadership acumen, supported the professional development of hundreds of leaders at Booz-Allen-Hamilton and the U.S. State Department. She founded R.S. Kane and Associates and in her private practice, Rondalyn was a well-respected coach, facilitator, and colleague.

She had an incredible gift for making people feel like they belonged. Rondalyn empowered them to take ownership of their growth and lead with their minds and hearts. And, she did it all with warmth and energy that made you believe anything was possible.

Rondalyn’s legacy is one of inspiration, impact, and unwavering love. She taught us that leadership, friendship, and love for your fellow human being is not about perfection. It is about connection, courage, empathy, and the relentless pursuit of growth. She lived those values every single day until the end and has left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to have known and loved her. She will live in our hearts forever.

Left to cherish the memory of Rondalyn are her brother, Martin “Marty” Kane, III (Devi); sisters, Davina English and Marlene Terrell; nieces, Imani Kane, Ashley Sydnor, and Miya Kane; and grandniece, Chandler Tillery. In addition, she leaves aunts, Barbara Anderson, Catherine Adams (Alvin), and Dorothea Johnson, uncle, Leroy Kane (Greta), and a host of cousins.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Rondalyn’s name to the Smith Center for Healing and the Arts (https://smithcenter.org).