A native of Canton, Mississippi in Madison County, received his Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Education from Alcorn State University in 1971. He received a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics in 1974 and Doctorate of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics in 1978 both from Mississippi State University.
Dr. Allen’s professional career expands over 40 years beginning and ending at Mississippi State University. In 1971, he began as a Graduate Research Assistant while attending graduate school in the Department of Agricultural Economics which spanned over 40 years serving in various positions as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor and Professor. Upon retirement in 2012, he was named Professor Emeritus in Agricultural Economics. Dr. Allen’s philosophy while teaching and talking to youth was “one can achieve ones highest level of success through faith, hard-work, dedication and commitment to excellence.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Allen has published, either authored and co-authored over 200 publications which dates back to 1974 and extends to 2014; advised numerous Thesis of students pursuing Masters and Doctorate degrees; principal investigator and on research grants and fellowships enabling him to conduct national and international research.
Dr. Allen is a member of professional and social organizations including Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., American Heart Association volunteer, Help Hospitalized Veterans volunteer. Through Dr. Allen tireless efforts to the community and giving back, he was instrumental in helping to establish the Gamma Pi Alumni Association of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. which has an endowed undergraduate scholarship fund at Alcorn State University and was one of the charter members of the first African American Fraternity to be established at Mississippi State University Kappa Alpha Psi Eta Upsilon chapter in 1975.
In addition, he has received numerous awards, and special recognitions for his work in agricultural economics and the community including Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award; 2010 Legend at Mississippi State University; International Who’s Who of Professionals, Who’s Who Among American Colleges and Universities; Mr. Kappa Alpha Psi; Certificate of Distinguished Service Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Outstanding Undergraduate Teacher; State Pride Award for 2011; Executive Professional of the Year and Lifetime Membership Award from the Mississippi Retired Public Employees Association.
He is married to Jeanette M. Allen and they are the proud parents of four children. They currently reside in Starkville, MS.