Shawn Oliver is a husband, father, grandfather, Corrections Officer and New Bedford City Councilor.

A first generation American he was born and raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts, a city whose history, resilience, and hardworking spirit helped shape the man he is today.

Shawn is a product of New Bedford Public Schools and he welcomed his first daughter into the world just months after graduating.

Becoming a father at a young age meant stepping immediately into responsibility. Determined to provide for his family, Shawn entered the workforce right away, often working two and sometimes three jobs at a time to make ends meet.

In 2013, Shawn began his career in public service after graduating from the Massachusetts Department of Correction Training Academy, stepping into a role that demands discipline, accountability, and a deep commitment to public safety.

Shawn is a proud father of three children and has been married to his wife, Emerald, for more than ten years. Together they are raising their family in New Bedford.

While he may not be one for lavish trips, Shawn values time spent with family and the outdoors. Each year, the Oliver family looks forward to their annual camping trips, a tradition that allows them to unplug and enjoy the simple moments together. Shawn also enjoys taking family drives down the Cape in the family’s 1965 Mustang and spending time on the golf course when he can. Despite his busy schedule, he always makes time for one of his favorite traditions, joining his grandfather for their regular trips to the barber shop.

Shawn was deeply influenced by his father, who loved New Bedford and once ran for City Council because he believed strongly in giving back to the city that had given him so much. Though his father has since passed, that example of civic responsibility left a lasting impact on him.

Another guiding influence in his life was his uncle, Joseph Oliver who embodied the spirit of leadership through his service in New Bedford Public Schools. With a simple but powerful message that stayed with Shawn throughout his life:

“The choices you make today shape your world tomorrow.”

Inspired by their example, Shawn decided to give back to his city.

And in 2022, he stepped forward to run for public office. In 2023, the people of New Bedford elected him to serve on the City Council.

On the council, Shawn approaches every decision with a focus on common sense solutions, fiscal responsibility, and accountability to taxpayers. He believes good government starts with listening, and he works to ensure that the voices of everyday residents, the families, workers, and small business owners who keep the city running, are heard and respected.

Shawn Oliver’s story is one of resilience, responsibility, and service. From a young father working multiple jobs to a public servant helping guide the future of his city, he remains grounded in the values that have defined his life: family, faith, hard work, and commitment to community.