Shannon has her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from UW-Milwaukee and has widespread interests in native and invasive species, habitat restoration, and reconnecting people with nature. She presently teaches courses at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in Biology and Environmental Studies, is an Affiliate of the Sustainability Institute of Regional Transformations organizing outreach events on environmental topics, and advises the Student Environmental Action Coalition and Sustainable Beekeeping Club. Shannon is part of the steering committe to build Urban Ecology Oshkosh, which aims to improve access to environmental education in the Oshkosh area. Her hobbies include farming (goats, ducks, chickens) and teaching martial arts and yoga.