Shannon Marie Gunn, Class of 1992, died June 5, 1999 in Houston, Texas.  After graduation, she worked for Assistant to the Ambassador to Russia in St. Petersburg, Russia.  While there, she traveled around Russia and Finland.

Since leaving Germany after graduation, she attended El Paso Community College.  She worked with the Southwest AIDS Committee, as a speaker and educator.  Shannon was also involved with the AIDS Walk and Runs, The Black Tie Ball and several other events in El Paso.  She participated as a representative for the El Paso Health Region to the State (Texas) level in HIV/AIDS, to help set policy and write grants.

She then moved to Houston, where she worked for the City of Houston as a HIV/AIDS educator.  She taught at the middle and high school levels and in the community at churches and other organizations.  She was known for her selfless devotion to the street kids of Houston.  Shannon tried to communicate the importance of educating oneself about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.  She then worked for Street Wise, an organization that helps kids and young adults to get off the streets.  She was a counselor and HIV/AIDS educator for Street Wise.  Shannon also attended the University of Houston to further her education.

Even in her short life, she affected the lives of thousands.  Knowing that she has helped so many not to take chances and end up with this disease, has made her short life a very fulfilling one.  Shannon's death was unexpected at the time, even after her long illness, but those who knew her said "She lived each day with a zest for life.

Shannon's parents, Jean and Edward Gunn, may be contacted at shazgirl73@aol.com.