Her Story
About Shannon
Shannon Fuhrman, Ph.D., Ed.S., is an accomplished higher education leader and Executive Director of Retention & Student Support at Regent University. With more than a decade of experience in higher education, she specializes in student success, retention strategy, academic recovery, enrollment management, training and development, and holistic student support. In her current role, she advances data-informed initiatives and early alert systems designed to support at-risk populations, improve student outcomes, and foster collaboration across departments.
Throughout her career, Dr. Fuhrman has held progressively senior leadership roles at Regent University, including Senior Director of Training & Development, Director of Training and Development, and Enrollment Management Team Leader. Her background also includes experience in admissions, career development, advancement, teaching, and student affairs. She is recognized for her expertise in leadership development, organizational well-being, psychological safety, cross-cultural communication, and creating equitable support structures that empower both students and professionals. She also contributes to the broader higher education community through professional presentations, research-informed writing, and service with NAFSA: Association of International Educators.
Dr. Fuhrman holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership in Higher Education from Regent University. She is committed to advancing student success through compassionate, innovative, and evidence-based approaches that recognize the individual needs of learners and the importance of supportive institutional environments. Her professional philosophy is grounded in authenticity, resilience, empathy, and a strong commitment to helping individuals and organizations grow, adapt, and achieve meaningful, lasting success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shannon
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to two key qualities: authenticity and resilience. I believe that meaningful change is difficult to create without being true to who you are, and authenticity has allowed me to lead and contribute in a way that is genuine and impactful. I also value resilience, recognizing that we all face unique challenges and setbacks throughout our careers and lives. Each challenge presents an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to raise my hand and volunteer, even when I am not entirely sure whether I have all the skills needed to fulfill the task. By stepping forward and embracing opportunities outside my comfort zone, I have been able to learn about different roles, connect with diverse people, and continuously expand my professional skill set. Each time I have volunteered for a new challenge, I have gained valuable experience, built confidence, and grown both personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is not to allow others to place you in a box based on their assumptions about who you should be or what you should do. We have the power to create the spaces in which we exist and to determine the paths we want to pursue, how we want to contribute, and the impact we want to make. Do not allow someone else’s predetermined expectations or assessments to dictate your life or your choices. Trust your own vision, embrace your individuality, and have the confidence to define success on your own terms.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Compassion, empathy, and a strong work ethic are among the values that guide me in both my professional and personal life. I believe it is important to remember that everyone we interact with is a person who may be facing challenges we know nothing about, so treating others with understanding and kindness is essential. I also value perseverance and a willingness to learn. I do not believe that lacking a particular skill means something is beyond my reach; with dedication, effort, and a commitment to growth, I am confident that new skills can be developed and challenges can be overcome.
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