Shanon graduated with honors from Bowling Green State University in June, 1991, with a major in computer and information science. As an undergraduate, she worked part-time to help pay the cost of college, and also was active in many different organizations. She served as president of the BGSU Chapter of Chi Omega National Sorority, was a  member of the executive board of Women in Computer Science, and was actively involved in programs such as Alcohol Awareness Week, Black  History Month, and the United Way Campaign.

After graduation, Shanon moved to Cincinnati, joining Proctor & Gamble as an analyst in the Management Systems Division. In the six and a half years she worked for the company, she received several promotions, becoming senior systems analyst in July, 1995. She also worked closely with the Strategic Projects group. In March, 1996, she was transferred to the Global Treasury Management Systems group. She was also active in the P&G recruiting process at BGSU. Her supervisors described Shanon as "a leader and an exceptional team member, bringing professional excellence and determined energy to each new challenge."

Shanon married Norman Marks, Jr. May 13, 1995. Norman also graduated from BGSU in 1991. A a citizen of Cincinnati, Shanon served with the Junior League, focusing on a project at Withrow High School to provide mentoring and resources for at-risk students to encourage and assist them in completing their high school education. She was murdered in her home  November 12, 1997. This scholarship, originated by Shanon's parents Patricia Wise and Glendale Silverwood, has been endowed through the generosity of Shanon's and Norm's family, friends and co-workers.