After earning a B.S. degree and graduate certificate in public administration from SU, Erin Maloney ’94, ’03 started working for Frederick County Parks and Recreation.
Shenandoah afforded me opportunities to find my values and improve my character. I learned the value of teamwork, work ethic, time management, hard work and perseverance. Shenandoah helped me reach my career goals by giving me opportunities for growth and success.”
“I was a BASIC (before and after school program) site supervisor and also worked with their special events and summer programs.” Her next position was with Grafton School, where she worked in the girl’s unit on the Berryville campus for two and a half years. In 1997, Maloney started working at the Juvenile Detention Center as a shift supervisor. “In 2005, I was promoted to the assistant superintendent, and in 2013 I was promoted to the superintendent. At the detention center, I have had the opportunity to work in various capacities while providing guidance, structure and safety to the residents and staff,” said Maloney.
The most rewarding experiences are when former residents return to the facility and share their success stories. Unfortunately, there are fewer success stories than we would like, but we are reaching some kids. Many return to thank us and introduce us to their significant other or spouse and/or children. They are proud of how far they have come, which makes what we do worthwhile.”
Maloney admits that there are challenges to her job, such as difficulty sleeping at night knowing you are solely responsible for the care and well-being of the residents and staff, and keeping staff motivated to remain vigilant and not complacent with safety and security practices. Also, “The drastic rise in mental health issues in adolescents and being able to meet their needs in a secure setting since detention has become the ‘only game in town.’”
Maloney’s fondest memories of Shenandoah include playing basketball, softball and tennis and the lifelong friendships that were created. She is looking forward to continuing the connections with other board members. “I look forward to helping in whatever capacity is needed.” She feels that it’s important to give back to SU because she would like others to have the opportunities that she was given. Maloney was nominated for the board by Alumni Board member Anne Popp Lewis ’92, ’06, ’11.
Maloney enjoys playing golf, spending time with her friends and family, volunteering for animal rescue and helping others. “I have a wonderfully supportive family. All of my children have paws!”