Shawn Batten graduated with a BFA in acting from Syracuse University, where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. In addition, she studied modern dance at NYU, and acting at North Carolina School of the Arts. She also attended classes at Atlantic Theatre Company in NYC and again in Los Angeles at a time when the founders of Atlantic Theatre Co., William H. Macy and David Mamet offered an eight-week, intensive program there. "A Practical Handbook for the Actor", the book that outlines the technique taught by Atlantic Theatre Co., continues to provide her foundation and inspiration. She credits ATC teacher, Robert Bella, as her greatest influence.
