Shawn Crittenden was raised in Peavine, Oklahoma and graduated from Stilwell High School.
He earned his bachelor's degree in education from Northeastern State University in 2007.
Prior to running for office, Crittenden worked as a auctioneer, musician, and Greasy Public Schools teacher.
[1] Crittenden ran for the Cherokee Nation tribal council's 8th district in 2015 to succeed Jodie Fishinghawk.
[2] He won the general election with 61% of the vote, defeating Corey Bunch.