NORTH EAST, MD — Cecil College Trustee Sarah W. Colenda has been awarded the 2025 Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award, recognizing her decades of service, leadership, and philanthropic commitment to Cecil College and the surrounding community.
A lifelong resident of Cecil County and Trustee since 2005, Colenda has played a critical role in advancing the mission of the College and its Foundation. Her work spans nearly two decades of strategic leadership, community outreach, and hands-on event planning—efforts that have left a lasting mark on the institution’s growth and its ability to serve students across the county.
Colenda is known for her deep personal investment in the success of Cecil College, often going beyond traditional trustee responsibilities. As Trustee Liaison to the College’s Foundation, she has not only strengthened board relations but has also personally hosted gatherings to support collaboration and community building. Her work behind the scenes—providing everything from decorations to venues for fundraising events—has helped elevate high-profile functions like the Collegium de Vinum Wine Gala, the Athletics Golf Tournament, and the Little Black Dress event.
“The college is the light at the end of the tunnel for many people in Cecil County,” said Colenda. “The Foundation helps so many people realize their dreams or elevate themselves out of poverty.”
Her leadership extended to shaping the physical future of the College. She joined the Board in time for the Elkton Station ribbon-cutting and has since overseen major capital improvements, including renovations to the Physical Education Complex and the construction of the new Engineering and Math Building. These developments have expanded Cecil College’s regional impact and enabled new academic partnerships with top engineering programs on the East Coast.
Under her guidance, the Board also approved construction of a new athletic practice facility and a state-of-the-art turf athletic field. Further demonstrating her support for student-athletes, Colenda established the John “Jack” Wade Colenda Scholarship, continuing her family’s legacy of community involvement that spans six generations.
“Cecil College has grown from its beginnings at Elkton High School to what it has become today,” she said. “We have a strategic plan that is progressive and forward-thinking… We are here for the students. We are all about the students.”
The Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to education and public service. Colenda’s dedication, vision, and tireless advocacy make her a standout recipient. Her legacy will continue to shape Cecil College and inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
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