Mary Shannon was appointed by County Executive Frank White, Jr. as a district four member to the Jackson County Ethics, Human Relations, and Citizens Complaints Commission. Mary is a small/diverse business advocator. She is the founder of Connectus Worldwide, a certified professional consulting firm that specializes in the delivery of services to Minority, Woman-owned, Veteran, and LGBTQ Business Enterprises, as well as majority organizations wanting to become more intertwined in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. She is passionate about her work and possesses decades of experience and knowledge that blends corporate strategy and business solutions with entrepreneurial spirit and personalized service. Prior to starting Connectus Worldwide, Mary managed a supplier diversity program for Hallmark Cards for several years.
Mary is on the Leadership Council for the National Small Business Association in Washington D.C., serves on the Board for the International Association of Women, KC Chapter, and the Prospect Business Association. She is a community partner with the Kansas City SCORE Community Strategic Alliance, a philanthropic member with the Sister’s Circle of Greater KC, and a Black Achiever in Business and Industry, Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater KC. She holds a Master of Arts in Management from Webster University. Mary lives, plays, works, and worships in the greater Kansas City, Missouri area.