Harvey Allen, Ph.D. began working in the College of Education in 1969 as a professor. His career in the college spanned for more than 30 years, and he went on to become Department Chair, Associate Dean and Interim Dean. His colleagues share that his service was highlighted by a willingness to listen, always opening his door to others and genuine friendship. He advised dozens of doctoral candidates, led the college’s international initiatives and was well-loved as a leader. Any administrator would echo this is quite a feat in leadership.

He was named a Distinguished Professor Emeritus in his retirement in 2005. His legacy was championed by the endowing of the Harvey A. Allen Scholarship, awarded to students pursuing their teacher certification in Elementary Education.

A survey of his colleagues brought the following words about Dr. Allen and his legacy:

Harvey Allen got along with everyone. He was easy to love. You could find anything to talk to him about. He had the greatest sense of humor of anyone I knew. We could laugh about anything.

Thomas (Bruce) Fryer, Ph.D., retired faculty

Harvey Allen was very supportive of new faculty. He was welcoming and kind and worked to make us feel at home. The Department of Education was working with the college on developing a program to certify educators working in American foreign schools overseas. Allen helped develop a masters’ program that worked with educators abroad to keep their certifications. I joined him and his wife on a trip to a conference in Africa. The three of us had a wonderful time together.

Christine Ebert, Ph.D., retired faculty

Harvey Allen was the quintessential education professional. He cared deeply about his students and just as much about his colleagues. I remember the times that he checked on me when I had to make some critical decisions as Dean of the College. That type of caring is very rare indeed. I will remember him as one of the most supportive faculty members whom I have ever encountered. His commitment and spirit will be sorely missed.

Les Sternberg, Ph.D., former dean

I have such fond memories of Professor Allen. He taught me in graduate school in the early 1970’s. He was extremely dedicated to his profession. I would see him and his wife at various USC events over the years, and he always remembered my name and would reach out to say hello. He was truly one of our Gamecock treasures.

Sherry Whatley, M.Ed. 1975, former student

The loss of Harvey Allen is a huge personal loss for me. He was more than a full professor and administrator; he was a friend who always had stories to share with faculty and students alike. His stream of stories was always connected with the phrase, ‘Then again ....’

Nate Carnes, Ph.D., professor

It was my personal and professional privilege to work with Allen during my tenure at USC. A particular example of his support is related to a federal grant application which required two of us to be on a conference call. At that time, late 1990s, there was only one conference phone in the COE and it was in the Dean's office. Harvey encouraged the grant application and organized shifts in office spaces so we could participate in the call. It seems almost trivial in today's world of technology, but in those days it was a monumental show of support. I deeply appreciated his willingness to support and assist faculty.

Jacqueline E. Jacobs, Ph.D., former professor

Harvey Allen was one of the first people I got to know when I came to South Carolina. He was a wonderful person. He was so kind and knowledgeable and very wise. Everyone liked him. Certainly, as a dean, he had to make hard decisions, but he somehow did so in a way where everyone felt supported. A lighthearted memory: Being from Minnesota, Allen made sure I was acquainted with things in the south. He even taught me about ‘pully bones’ or wishbones in chicken. He was excited that I was from Minnesota and loved to talk with me about the SPAM museum because he was a huge fan of SPAM. He always took time with new people and made them comfortable in the college.

Mitch Yell, Ph.D., professor

Harvey Allen was without a doubt, the very best person I ever met. I was really blessed to know him and be able to work with him. He was the associate dean and a big proponent of my hiring. Even though he was my supervisor, he was my mentor and became a friend and advisor. He taught me a lot about life, fairness and doing the right thing. I had such an admiration and respect for him. We laughed a lot and cried some. Part of his philosophy was trusting people to do their job well. He always did the right thing in the right way from work to relationships.

Steve Mattison, former business manager

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 30 at 2 pm at Shandon United Methodist Church, with a private burial in the church columbarium. A reception will follow at the church. There will also be a livestream of the service through Shandon UMC’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@ShandonUMC/streams). Memorials may be made online or by mail to the Harvey A. Allen Scholarship Endowment, University of South Carolina, Revenue & Compliance, 1600 Hampton St., Suite 736, Columbia, SC 29208. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com