Caren Marshall grew up in a Quaker community near Jericho Friends Church, Winchester, Indiana where she retains her Quaker membership. The Quaker history of her parents and ancestors influenced her pursuit of a master's degree in social work from Indiana University. Her career included a medical social consultant role with the Indiana State Department of Public Welfare and a 30-year role as CEO of a combined Easter Seals and Goodwill Industries organization serving people with disabilities.