Shawna is a native of Indiana. She is married to Eugene E. Simmons III. She is the mother of 4 children ages 22 to 7 years old.

Shawna is the current Team Leader of YCD (Youth Christian Development). In this role she serves in rotation in teaching Enrichment Hour and as well as Junior Church. She helps to coordinate VBS (Vacation Bible School) and other youth activities.

She is the current PTO Vice President of Chapelwood Elementary School. She has served on the board of ABC/GI (American Baptist Churches of Greater Indianapolis. She is currently serving as President of ABC/GI Region.

Shawna also loves to sew and do crafts. She adds these two attributes to her ministry as often as possible. She often invites church members over for sewing and craft parties at her home. She loves children and she loves her church.