As a college athlete in the 1980s, Mike Shannon found himself on the

receiving end of FCA’s vision: to see the world transformed by Jesus

Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. In this case, it was hearing the testimony and life perspective of Pittsburgh Steelers coach Tony Dungy, at an FCA event at Allegheny College, where Mike played football and lacrosse. “Coach Dungy talked about living life in a way that is different from the way the world lives, and it made a lasting impact on me, as I still remember his guidance even today,” shared Mike.

Fast forward several years, and Mike is again invited to attend an FCA

event, this time in Western New York. He found himself impressed by both the FCA staff’s dedication and the major impact the area leaders were making across the state. Having a long-held passion for sports as well as teaching and coaching youth, Mike felt called to become personally involved with the ministry. After now serving on the FCA regional board for five years, his excitement and commitment for FCA’s mission has only deepened. “As Billy Graham has said, ‘A coach will impact more people in one year than the average person will in an entire lifetime,’” shared Mike. “I see FCA as being a catalyst to have this impact on our youth all the way

through the college years.”

Professionally, Mike’s career experience encompasses IT sales

management, marketing and client service. He currently is the Client

Partner and Global Account Manager for one of Sutherland’s key business partners.

Mike’s volunteer work includes teaching Junior Achievement programs within Rochester city schools, coaching youth basketball in the HF-L school district, and working closely with Rochester’s Open Door Mission. He also partners with his daughter Grace, co-teaching Sunday school to elementary-aged children at Victor Community Church. Mike and his wife Anne reside in Mendon, NY with their two children, Grace and John. Mike enjoys spending time with his family outdoors, trail running, hunting, fishing, and golf.