SHANNON OLIVER
Miss New York 2012
Education: Graduate of Christopher Newport University, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Scholastic & Career Ambitions: Obtain a Masters of Journalism; Become a journalist or professional vocalist
Platform Issue: Everyone Has a Story: Cultural Togetherness
Talent: Classical Vocal/ “Chi il bel sogno di Doretta”
Miss New York History: Shannon was the Overall Talent winner at Miss NY 2012, placing in the Top Ten as Miss Metropolitan. When Mallory Hagan, Miss NY, was crowned Miss America 2013, Shannon accepted the job of Miss New York 2012!
Biography
Available for use in introductions, media, press, interviews.
Shannon Oliver is a 24-year-old honors graduate of Christopher Newport University with a B.A. in Psychology. She currently lives in Manhattan while pursuing a career in musical theatre. Shannon has over 15 years of performance experience through working as a singer at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, participating in nearly 20 regional and community musical productions, and appearing in numerous cabarets. In addition to musical endeavors, Shannon is a trained diversity educator and founder of the organization S.A.I.L. (Sharing Awareness for Intercultural Living), through which she has facilitated programs designed to break stereotypes and promote acceptance in dozens of classrooms. She has worked in AIDS homes, leprosy colonies, and elementary schools in the slums of Chennai India, was a scholarship recipient of HOPE Youth Corps in Denver, CO, and is a proud volunteer for New York Cares. After her reign as Miss New York, Shannon plans to continue her pursuit of Broadway, in addition to freelance writing.
Everyone Has a Story: Cultural Togetherness
As Miss New York 2012, Shannon will travel the state promoting Diversity Awareness. She is a trained diversity educator and founded the multicultural organization, S.A.I.L. (Sharing Awareness for Intercultural Living), during her years at Christopher Newport University. Using the curriculum established by S.A.I.L., Shannon facilitates interactive programs in elementary, middle, and high schools that focus on breaking stereotypes, eradicating bullying, and developing healthy conversations regarding cultural differences among students. Shannon was recognized with the Quality of Life Award for her work with S.A.I.L. during her time participating in the Miss America Organization in Virginia, where she attended college.
Fundraising Focus
Although Shannon’s primary focus will be Diversity Awareness, Shannon also plans on fundraising for research towards both bladder cancer and Marfan’s Syndrome during her time as Miss New York. Shannon’s mother lost the battle against bladder cancer in 2012 and her stepmother suffers from Marfan’s Syndrome, so she would like to not only raise funds to fight these life-threatening diseases/disorders, but also devote time as a personal source for New Yorkers facing any form of terminal or debilitating illness, whether directly or in a family member.