Jessica Allen
Jessica (“Dr. J”) A. is a dedicated higher education professional with over 15 years of experience supporting students across a variety of institutions, including community colleges, public universities, and private colleges. Passionate about student success and belonging, she has worked extensively with underserved and underrepresented students in STEM, focusing on holistic academic and personal development. Her career spans roles in tutoring, financial aid, academic advising, and student support, demonstrating a commitment to empowering students to reach their full potential.
Currently, Jessica serves as Assistant Dean for Student Support at Washington University’s McKelvey School of Engineering, where she co-supervises the McKelvey Believes Peer Mentor Program and advises ColorStack, supporting underrepresented students in technology fields. She previously held positions as Academic & Student Support Advisor at Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing and Student Support Specialist at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where she developed programs to improve retention and provided guidance for adult and second-career learners. Her experience also includes coordinating peer tutor programs, mentoring students on scholarships and academic progress, and creating workshops focused on leadership, resilience, and empowerment.
Jessica earned her Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership and Administration from Northcentral University, a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and has extensive training in Student Affairs Administration. Beyond her professional work, she is deeply committed to volunteering, mentoring young women through Hope Church and Zonta International, and advocating for women pursuing college degrees. Her dedication to student success, equity, and empowerment has made her a respected leader and mentor in higher education.
• Student Affairs Administration
• Northcentral University- Ed.D.
• University of Missouri-Saint Louis- M.Ed.
• Saint Louis University- B.A.
• Hope Church
• Zonta International
• THE BELIEVERS TEMPLE WORD FELLOWSHIP
• NACADA
• NODA
• Washington University McKelvey School of Engineering
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my family and the strong network of people who have consistently encouraged and guided me. Their belief in my abilities has provided me with the confidence and resilience needed to pursue my goals, navigate challenges, and grow both personally and professionally. I recognize that having a reliable support system has been instrumental in shaping my achievements and continues to inspire me to strive for excellence in all that I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mentors, Dr. Shawn Woodhouse and Alan Byrd, who taught me the importance of resilience, strategic thinking, and always putting students first.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to embrace their authentic selves, pursue what they are truly passionate about, and always support and uplift those around them.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, respect, and embracing challenges.