Darren C. Allen is a higher education professional with over 20 years experience. He has earned a bachelor’s degree in history with minors in English and African-American Studies and a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Alabama. Mr. Allen began his career at the University of Alabama in housing and residential life, later transitioning to admissions and enrollment management. He joined the staff of Lawson State Community College in June 1999. He has served in various capacities at the College including Director of Admissions and College Registrar, Assistant Dean for Admissions and Records, Assistant Dean of Student Life. From March 2014 until September 2017, he served as acting dean of students, and currently serves as assistant dean of students responsible for enrollment, student engagement, housing, student health and wellness, and student discipline.

Mr. Allen is engaged in a number professional and civic organizations throughout community and the state. He has served as chair of the two-year college admissions and records professional development committee, president of ACT Alabama State Organization, president of ALACRAO, the state’s two and four your college admissions and records association, member of various committees of the (SACRAO) Southern Association College Registrars and Admissions officers, board member of Childcare Resources of Birmingham, Vice President, Family Self-Sufficiency Program Coordinating Committee for the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District. He is a member of the Charter class of the Alabama Community College Leadership Academy, and a graduate of Leadership Walker County. He is a life member and veteran state and local chapter officer of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.