Faculty and Staff Spotlight - Allen Flanagan

Jul 1, 2025 10:00 AM

eNews Faculty and Staff Spotlight highlights employees who are making a difference on our campus every day and helping to change the lives of our students. This edition of eNews features Allen Flanagan. 

Position and Department: Director of Student Auxilary Services, Lane University Center and Event Services

allen flanagan

How long have you worked at FSU?

I joined the FSU family on Aug. 12, 2016.

What 3 words can you use to describe FSU?

Student-centered, caring and innovative. 

List any professional or personal accomplishments we can celebrate with you.

For me, the biggest accomplishment is having an amazing team in the LUC. We all support each other, rise to the challenge all while having some fun at the same time. The hours are long, resources are tight, but they show up every day determined to make a difference. Being surrounded by people who care about the students, the work and the impact they make is something I never take for granted. That's worth celebrating! 

What is your favorite thing about working at Frostburg State University?

My favorite thing about working at FSU are the students. I have the privilege of getting to work with a team of dedicated, compassionate and capable student leaders every year and I can honestly say that they make the operation of our department possible. 

Is there a faculty and/or staff member that you consider a mentor? If so, who and why?

Robert Cooper has been, and continues to be, a true mentor and friend to me. Coop is supportive and pushes me to grow and always makes time to listen, talk and offer advice. 

What advice would you give to current students?

Get involved! While the ultimate reason you're here is to get an excellent education, the experiences you will have outside of the classroom through being involved in student organizations, student government or on-campus employment will teach you real world application of the knowledge, skills and abilities you need to be successful after graduation. 

What is a cause near and dear to your heart and why?

A cause dear to my heart is Parkinson's disease awareness and research. My mom has Parkinson's, so I've seen firsthand how this progressive and debilitating disease can impact a person's independence and overall quality of life. It's not just the physical symptoms - it's the emotional toll, the cognitive toll, the constant adjustments and the daily resilience required to navigate even the most routine tasks that you or I would consider easy. 

What do you do for fun?

I'm a big TV buff and love getting wrapped up in a good story. I really enjoy shows with motivational characters and interesting plot twists. It's one of my favorite ways to relax and unwind. It is a chance to take a break from the day and just escape into something different for a while. For me, it helps me process the day and recharge.