Shawn Humphrey (shumphre)

Associate Professor

Academic Degrees

B.A., Earlham College; M.A., Virginia Commonwealth University; M.A., Ph.D., Washington University in St. Louis

I am the Blue Collar Professor. For most of the year, you can expect to see dirt under my fingernails. One of my favorite smells is burning biomass. The Ohio River runs through my veins. And, no matter how far I travel, the hills of Kentucky are never too far away. I have a knack for mobilizing global grassroots movements on a shoe-string budget. My pedagogy was forged on the gridiron. Three bullies and a bathroom determined the path of social justice I walk today. And, the best compliment I ever received was from a student who told me that I was “10 pounds of cool in a 5 pound bag.” I am a Tribal Teacher committed to rewilding my students. I am the founder of the Two Dollar Challenge, Month of Microfinance, Poverty Action Conference, and La Ceiba Microfinance. And, I am a blogger who explores the Do’s and Don’ts of Doing Good and gives half-time speeches to those looking to make a dent in the world.

Shawn Humphrey in the News

Turn a New Page With Wintertime Reads by UMW Faculty and Alumni

Offering readers fresh perspectives to explore during the winter season, recently published works from University of Mary Washington faculty and alumni span history, international relations, poetry, young-adult fiction and more. NATO After Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: Threat Perceptions and Their Consequences Professor of Political Science and International Affairs Jason Davidson Read more…

Flip the Field 2025, April 7-10

Flip the Field is a unique experiential learning opportunity where Mary Washington’s student-athletes become the educators, and faculty, administrators, and staff step into the role of students. Varsity coaches and their teams host immersive experiences, clinics, and friendly contests to showcase the dedication and effort student-athletes put into the sports Read more…
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