Shannon Warren

What makes Shannon Wildly Capable?

Shannon is a reconciler! She tries to bring peace by gathering people of different ethnic, religious and economic backgrounds to have meaning ful conversations. She stands up for what she believes in and wants to make a difference in her community!” CLARISSA WATKINS

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?

My mother was an independent soul who made her way out of Dierks, AR and achieved an education, all the way up to a master’s degree. She waited until she was in her 40s to get married and taught first grade her whole life. That was incredible during her era. And, my dad was quite the entrepreneur—everyone loved his characteristic outgoing nature. Both were generous and kind to so many during their lifetimes. I’m grateful to have been able to follow in my parents’ footsteps. I hope I made them proud by helping people connect with one another.

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?

Probably me. I have had to learn to set boundaries with people early on and it has not been easy. This is probably true of many women who serve in relationship-oriented capacities. My heart tends to overrule my head and I get exhausted, burned out and cranky.

What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community?

Education! No matter what career one pursues, it all starts in a classroom with teachers. We have to be more respectful of the contributions made by our schools! Until I started sponsoring an Afghan family, I did not realize how difficult it is for some to access a good education. This was their first year ever in school. So, there’s a lot of catching up to do, right? I tried to enroll the boys in a high school summer program but none were available for kids having good grades. These kids are eager to learn but without available teachers and staff, they can’t do it.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Mother Teresa’s advice to “Do it anyway.” I found it in my dad’s desk after he passed. He demonstrated resiliency and a commitment to those principles his entire life.