Age: 53 
Hometown: Joliet, Illinois 
Upbringing: He’s the oldest of four children born to Carol, a registered nurse, and Dan, a public school teacher, coach, and dean. 
Family: Allen and his wife, Theresa, whom he met in college, have been married for 29 years. They have three children—Maggie, 27; Meghan, 24; and Danny, 21. 
Education: He is a product of Catholic education, from elementary school through his doctorate. He earned undergraduate and master’s degrees from Loras College and a Ph.D. from Loyola University-Chicago. 
Lasallian experience: Allen previously worked as a vice president of advancement at Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois—one of six Lasallian colleges and universities in the U.S. 
Athletic experience: Allen played Division III basketball at Loras College, where he still ranks among the program’s top-10 leaders in career assists. He even hit the game-winning shot in the final home game of his career. These days, Allen is a recreational runner who has finished four marathons. 
Favorite musician: While Allen maintains an eclectic taste in music, including jazz and opera, his top artist is Bruce Springsteen. 
Favorite athlete: Michael Jordan 
Favorite book: To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee 
His feel for Philadelphia: “My wife and I, we love the city. Being able to walk to shops, restaurants, and parks, and being around people—these details are important to us. I greatly enjoy the small, local-restaurant vibe in the city. Philadelphia is the birthplace of this country and I am keen on being able to explore the city and its history.”