Shannon Gowen

Shannon Gowen has a diverse work experience that spans multiple industries and roles. Starting in 2013, they worked as an Administrative Assistant and Library Circulation Clerk for the City of Austin. After that, they served as a Gallery Manager for The Linda Pace Foundation, where they were responsible for running the operations of a public gallery and managing exhibitions and events. Shannon then worked as a Photo Studio Manager for Bright Eyes Projects, L.L.C. In 2015, they started their own art project called Piñata Presence, creating temporary site-specific piñata installations in downtown San Antonio.

Later on, Shannon became the Media & Marketing Manager for the Southwest School of Art, where they were responsible for all marketing and digital media outreach. Shannon then worked as a Freelance Designer, Digital Marketing and Event Coordinator for Make Social Co, providing graphic design services, digital marketing strategy, and event coordination.

In 2018, Shannon joined Endeavors, first as a Communications Manager and later as the Chief Marketing Officer. In these roles, they oversaw communication and marketing strategies, managed media relations, and developed collateral materials.

In 2016, Shannon co-founded and became the Director of 4x5 Photo Fest, an initiative that organizes a photography festival to build community and connect photographers. In 2021, they became the Director and Owner of The San Antonio Center of Photography. Currently, Shannon is working as the Senior Director of Mission Advancement & Communications for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio, where they are responsible for the organization’s marketing and public relations plan.

Overall, Shannon Gowen has a strong background in marketing, communications, event coordination, and art management.

Shannon Gowen obtained their Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Fine and Studio Arts from Texas State University from 2006 to 2010. Additionally, they received a certification in "Establishing Credibility as a Speaker" from LinkedIn in 2019.