DeShawn is familiar with the International system, as she was crowned Mrs. Maryland International 2006.  In 2003, DeShawn and her husband founded Project Goodwill to provide lunches, toiletries and sleeping bags to men and women living on the streets and in shelters in DC and MD; and in 2006 she was named a spokesperson for Friends of the World Food Program.  They continue to serve those in need in their community.  In October 2007, they made almost 1000 sandwiches which they delivered directly to those living on the streets; and DeShawn continues her work with FWFP to raise awareness and money to feed chronically hungry children around the world.

DeShawn was raised in Washington, DC and graduated as the valedictorian of Anacostia Sr High School.  She went on to major in Business Administration at Morgan State University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude.  She and her husband Marcellus have been married for ten years and live in Laurel, MD with their three boys. 

DeShawn also works full time for the U.S. Department of Transportation as a Senior Advisor.