Allen, Shawn

Dr. Shawn Allen is an Associate Professor of Social Work at Concord University. He earned his Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Concord University in 2007, his Master of Social Work (MSW) from West Virginia University in 2011, and his Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from Tulane University in 2021. Dr. Allen has been a Licensed Social Worker in West Virginia since 2007, became a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in 2011, and achieved Licensed Certified Social Worker status in 2022.

He began his career with the Appalachian Area Agency on Aging as one of West Virginia’s first Aging and Disability Resource Center regional coordinators. His research interests include aging, rural service delivery, disability services, and social work ethics.

As part of his commitment to professional service, Dr. Allen regularly facilitates continuing education workshops for social workers across West Virginia on ethics and professional practice in rural areas.

A strong advocate for disability rights and inclusion, Dr. Allen was appointed to the West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council in 2024 and continues to serve on several community committees, including the WV Olmstead Council and the WV Behavioral Health Planning Council. He resides in Lerona with his wife, Jamie, and their son, John Daniel.