
Shelly McDowell-Porter, CSW, CDP®
Dr. McDowell-Porter, LCSW, CDP®, is an Assistant Professor at Chamberlain University. She
brings a wealth of experience in macro and micro social work, focused on providing
transformative learning experiences for students. Her academic journey includes a PhD from
Howard University, an MPS from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, an MSW from
Fordham University, and a BSW from Stonybrook University. She has led multidisciplinary
teams in behavioral health services and guided industrial psychologists in sectors such as
academia, government, the intelligence community, military, non-profit, and private
organizations.
Dr. McDowell-Porter is a lifelong learner who continuously enriches her knowledge and skills
through specialty certifications and training, directly impacting her work and teaching approach.
She is the Chamberlain University Research Course Lead (RCL) and the Project Manager for the Integrative Curriculum Redesign (ICR). As RCL, her extensive experience as a researcher
conducting participatory qualitative research and quantitative survey design research is
instrumental. As ICR project manager, Dr. McDowell-Porter collaborates closely with
colleagues, leading efforts to align the new curriculum with the CSWE 2022 EPAS, centering on
Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) principles. Her qualifications as a
Certified Diversity Professional, Change Management Practitioner, Credentialing Specialist, and
Instructional Systems Designer equip her with a unique blend of expertise needed to create
an impactful and pioneering social work educational experience that benefits educators and
students alike, fostering an environment of growth and innovation at Chamberlain University.
Before joining the Chamberlain University MSW faculty, Dr. McDowell-Porter had significant
roles in various industries. Notable roles include Assessment Design and evaluation (ADE)
manager, Design Strategist, Psychometrician, and program manager for the US Navy and MarineForces Reserve Psychological Health Outreach Programs.