A Detroit native, born September 11, 1983, Marquita M. McGowan graduated from St. Martin De Porres high school in 2001. From there, she gained a full Track & Field Scholarship from Bowling Green State University where she studied Exercise Science. Committed on and off the track, McGowan graduated with a Bachelor in Education of Science in 2006 after enjoying plenty of intercollegiate track & field success.

In 2010, she began coaching as an assistant coach for the girl's track & field program at Detroit Central High School. By 2010-2011, McGowan took over the role as the Girls Head Cross Country and Track & Field Coach. While coaching at Central High School, McGowan took on the role as Assistant Cross Country / Track& Field Coach and Strength and Conditioning Coach at Marygrove College. While working with Central High School and Marygrove College, McGowan finds time to help volunteer with a local Detroit team T.D.P (Think Detroit P.A.L.) as a coach for 5-18yr old boys and girls over the summer where she focuses on helping the youth qualify for nationals.           

McGowan obtained USATF certification for coaching cross country and track & field in 2010 and became a USATF official in 2011. A track & field / cross runner for mid-distance and sprints allowed her to compete on four different levels between the two sports. McGowan made four appearances on the All-City Team and All-State Team during her successful days at De Porres High School. She also competed in Mid-American Conference Championships while at Bowling Green, and was a Junior Olympian for AAU.

McGowan is the mother of a three year old son and is the daughter of Isabella McGowan and Marc Howard.