Senior Program Manager
Chamberlain University
Dr. Shelly McDowell-Porter is a corporate social worker, industrial-organizational psychologist, credentialing specialist, and certified diversity professional with over 25 years of experience in education, accreditation, and program development. She holds a PhD in Social Work from Howard University, a Master of Science and Master of Professional Studies in I/O Psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, a Master of Social Work from Fordham University, and a Bachelor of Social Work from Stony Brook University.
Shelly has extensive experience in higher education, social work practice, and professional credentialing. She has designed equity-based assessments, developed culturally responsive curriculum. Her work spans academia, government, military, and private sectors, with a focus on fostering psychologically safe learning environments and advocating for systemic change.
As Vice Chair of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence and the Assessment-Based Certificate Accreditation Council, she actively contributes to best practices in credentialing and competency-based education. She is a recognized expert in faculty development, instructional design, and assessment, ensuring inclusive learning experiences that support diverse student needs, including neurodivergent learners.
Shelly is passionate about bridging the gap between policy and practice, equipping educators with the tools to navigate institutional barriers while upholding justice-centered, anti-oppressive, and restorative frameworks. Her expertise positions her as a leader in advancing accessibility and neurodivergent justice in social work education.
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