About Dr. Shawn

Dr. Shawn has lived here his whole life. He grew up in Warroad, Minnesota, and was the oldest of two children. He has a younger sister (Tara) and their parents, Wayne and LuAnn Tweten., still live in Warroad. 

Baby Shawn with his father, Wayne Tweten, grandfather, Howard Tweten (of Thief River Falls, Minnesota), and great-grandmother, Alice Tweten (of Grygla, Minnesota).

Toddler Shawn wearing a cowboy outfit. His cousin James is in the background.

Toddler Shawn getting his first haircut at Charlie's Barbershop in Warroad, Minnesota.

Shawn and his younger sister, Tara.

Dr. Shawn attended school in Warroad, Minnesota, and graduated in 1999. He participated in baseball, speech, knowledge bowl, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Shawn's first job was at Johnson Oil Company, a small gas station and bait store in Warroad. 

 

After graduation, Dr. Shawn attended Oak Hills Christian College in Bemidji, Minnesota. He majored in biblical studies, applied psychology, and youth ministries. He worked at the college library for his work study job and worked as a camp counselor during the summers. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 2004.

Shawn's senior picture. Faith was an important part of his identity. 

Shawn with his high school Spanish Club during a 1997 trip to Costa Rica. 

Shawn with his friends on his high school graduation day. 

Shawn graduating from Oak Hills

After college, Shawn got married and had a family. He and his now ex-wife have four children: Lee, Hazel, Aubri, and Samuel. 

Shawn with the birth of his daughter, Hazel.

Shawn and his children playing at the park.

Shawn and his three youngest children: Aubri, Hazel, and Samuel.

Shawn, his ex-wife, and their children at his oldest child's (Lee) high school graduation from Mankato West High School.

Dr. Shawn also spent several years working for community and religious nonprofit organizations in Bemdji, New Ulm, and North Mankato.  He worked with at-risk youth in a crisis shelter, residential treatment, and recovery. He also worked as a church youth director.

Shawn during church Christmas pageant.

Shawn during confirmation Sunday.

Shawn went on to earn his master of science (MS) in mental health counseling from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and his doctor of philosophy (PhD) in marriage and family therapy. Dr. Shawn now works providing mental health services to individuals in jails and providing training to law enforcement staff.

Shawn presenting two Dakota County deputies with an Eagle Award for their life saving actions.

Shawn presenting Renville County jail administrator with an Eagle Award for his life saving actions.

Shawn with staff from two Minnesota county jails after he lead a mental health first aid training.

Dr. Shawn enjoys many activities, including attending Minnesota sporting events.  His favorite sport is baseball.

Dr. Shawn with Viktor the Viking during 2013 Training Camp.

Dr. Shawn and his daughter Aubri at a 2023 Minnesota Lynx game. 

Dr. Shawn and his son, Sam, sitting in the Minnesota Twins' visitor dugout. 

Dr. Shawn sideline at U.S. Bank Stadium during a youth football game.