Her professional initiative is to sensitize the social consciousness of others to the parenting challenges being confronted by formerly incarcerated fathers in addition to advancing their social position within the family unit and the broader community. Dr. Shavel has a perspective that is based on an underlying attitude of resilience and determination which influences her research agenda. Her research interests include paternal experiences among formerly incarcerated African-American men, post-traumatic growth among formerly incarcerated individuals, intersection of mental health and spirituality, and mobilization and advocacy among marginalized groups.