Allen joined Morris Brown in January 2022, just months before the historically Black college regained its accreditation after losing it in 2002. He became a central figure in the school's comeback, credited with helping bring students back to a campus that had nearly emptied.

"Dr. Allen was one of my pillars at Morris Brown," said junior Courtney Stanback. "From the time I first got here, he was someone I knew I could lean on."

Morris Brown President Kevin James called Allen's death an incalculable loss. "Dr. Allen was a dedicated leader and a compassionate professional," James said in a statement. "His leadership and love for our mission will stand as a testament to his extraordinary dedication and belief in the power of education."

Allen's work extended beyond enrollment numbers. He was known for opening doors for students, making himself available to members of the campus community, and mentoring generations of students. He also worked with prospective students and their families, helping them navigate the college's rebuilding process.

Born in 1970 in Elberton, Georgia, Allen grew up in Hartwell and attended Morris Brown as an undergraduate. He earned degrees from Johnson C. Smith University and Argosy University in Atlanta, and later received a doctorate in higher education leadership from Regent University.

He served on the board of directors for Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, and was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Outside of work, he enjoyed playing softball, reading, collecting replica cars, and professional responsibilities.

Allen is survived by his mother, his sisters, and his brother.

A candlelight vigil was held Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, on the Morris Brown campus, where members of the community gathered to honor his life and legacy. A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. at Life Rock Family Worship Center, 5955 Highway 1, Fairburn, Georgia, with burial at Hartwell Church Cemetery.

Morris Brown, one of Atlanta's oldest historically Black colleges, has worked in recent years to rebuild its student population and restore its standing after accreditation was stripped in 2002. The college regained accreditation in April 2022 from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. Allen's enrollment efforts were part of that broader recovery.

"His work will continue through the students he helped shape and the opportunities he helped create," said Danyelle Chambers, a sophomore. "We are proud to carry his legacy forward."

A clarification published Nov. 7, 2026, updated the story to clarify Allen's role in working with prospective Morris Brown students.