Shawnie Allen
Shawnie Allen is an aspiring public health professional currently pursuing a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Maternal and Child Health at the University of South Florida. Her journey into public health was deeply personal after experiencing inequitable treatment in maternal care due to a personal health decision; she was inspired to advocate for health equity and ensure that women of all backgrounds receive fair and compassionate care. Shawnie combines her passion for science and advocacy with practical experience in student engagement, aiming to make a meaningful impact on the communities she serves. In her role as a graduate assistant at USF, Shawnie adjudicates Student Code of Conduct violations, facilitates workshops, and connects students with the resources they need to navigate challenges and succeed academically. Her focus on mentoring and education has allowed her to inspire young people, sharing her experiences to guide them toward positive behavioral choices and long-term success. Beyond her work with students, Shawnie actively participates in community outreach, serving as a mentor for Take Stock in Children and supporting initiatives with Florida Healthy Start’s Safe Baby program. Shawnie’s academic and professional background is complemented by her bachelor’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science from Nova Southeastern University, where she held leadership roles, including president of the Black Student Union and commencement speaker. She also engages in broader public health advocacy as a TIPH Ambassador for the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health. Driven by a commitment to equitable care, education, and mentorship, Shawnie is building a career that integrates science, advocacy, and community engagement to improve maternal and child health outcomes across the United States.
• Community Emergency Response Team
• Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED
• First Aid
• Seizure First Aid
• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Activist Lab Boot Camp Badge 2025
• Social and Behavioral Responsible Conduct of Research
• Group 1: Biomedical (HPD) Researchers
• University of South Florida- M.P.H.
• Nova Southeastern University- Bachelor's
• Community College of Baltimore County- Associate's
• Relate-A-Bull
• College of Public Health Ambassador Program
• Take Stock in Children (Mentor)
• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• Florida Healthy Start Safe Baby Program
What do you attribute your success to?
While completing my Master of Public Health with a concentration in Maternal and Child Health, I currently work as a Graduate Assistant at the University of South Florida. In this role, I focus on student engagement and regularly meet with students to discuss behavioral choices and violations of the Student Code of Conduct. I provide education and resources to help prevent repeated behavioral issues while also serving as a supportive resource for students who may be struggling. I believe it is important to recognize that you never truly know what someone is going through, and a person’s behavior or mistakes should not define them.
One of my most notable professional achievements has been inspiring and supporting students as they grow and develop. I am passionate about guiding students through challenges and ensuring they have access to the resources, support, and mentorship they need to succeed both academically and personally.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is that just because you don't have the experience or all the qualifications doesn't mean you can't apply for it. Just because one has all the experience doesn't mean that they're a great fit. Basically, just keep humbling yourself and just keep striving for what you want.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Advice I would give to young women entering the field of public health is to never back down from what you believe in. Continue advocating for the issues and communities that matter to you. Rejection will happen, but do not let it discourage you; use it as motivation to keep growing and moving forward. The field of public health needs strong voices, and you can be one of the people who stand up, speak out, and create meaningful change.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I see in my field is addressing stigma and inequitable treatment in maternal healthcare. This is something I experienced personally after deciding to have an abortion. However, this challenge also creates a significant opportunity to advance health equity by advocating for policies, education, and healthcare practices that ensure all women receive respectful, compassionate, and unbiased care.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are honesty, mentorship, and ensuring that others have access to the support and resources they need to succeed, all guided by humility. I believe honesty builds trust and meaningful relationships, while mentorship allows us to uplift and empower others as they navigate their personal and professional journeys. Providing access to support is especially important to me because everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and overcome challenges with the right guidance and resources.
Family also plays an essential role in shaping how I approach both my work and personal life. My family has instilled in me the importance of compassion, resilience, and showing up for others. These values influence the way I serve my community, support students, and advocate for equitable care and opportunities for those around me.