Cecil College Trustee Sarah Colenda receives 2025 Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award
Published on July 22, 2025
NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College is proud to announce Sarah W. Colenda as the recipient of the 2025 Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award, an honor that celebrates her remarkable dedication to education, community service, and unwavering support of the College and the Cecil College Foundation.
A lifetime resident of Cecil County, Mrs. Colenda has spent many years championing the mission of Cecil College and helping countless students pursue their academic and athletic goals. As a member of the Board of Trustees since 2005, she and her family have played an instrumental role in the county for six generations.
Trustee Colenda’s long-standing involvement with the Cecil College Foundation has made a lasting impact. Serving for many years as the Trustee Liaison for the Cecil College Board of Trustees, she has attended numerous board meetings and helped strengthen the connection between the Foundation and the Board. She has also graciously hosted many gatherings for both Trustees and Foundation members, always fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment. “The Foundation helps so many people realize their dreams or elevate themselves out of poverty. When I arrived, the Foundation was very small, but I have been fortunate enough to witness its growth,”” said Trustee Colenda. “The college is the light at the end of the tunnel for many people in Cecil County.”
Her insight, energy, and personal touch have been instrumental in the continued success of the Foundation’s special events. Known for going above and beyond, Trustee Colenda has provided everything from centerpieces and decorations to props and venues—and has even taken on the logistics of transporting and setting up these items to ensure smooth execution. Her hands-on approach and willingness to help wherever needed have made her an invaluable contributor behind the scenes, contributing to the success of events like the Collegium de Vinum Wine Gala, Athletics Golf Tournament, and the Little Black Dress.
Along with helping to grow the Foundation, Trustee Colenda has been instrumental in enhancing the College’s facilities. She joined the Cecil College Board of Trustees in time for the Elkton Station ribbon-cutting ceremony. Elkton Station replaced a dilapidated facility, allowing the College to expand its reach into the eastern region of Cecil County and provide the people of Elkton with excellent educational resources in their neighborhood.
She also oversaw the renovations of the Physical Education Complex and the most recent addition to the North East Campus, the Engineering and Math Building. This building has enabled the College to create articulation agreements with some of the top engineering universities on the East Coast. In recent years, the Board has approved the construction of an athletic practice facility adjacent to the baseball and softball fields, as well as the artificial turf athletic field.
“It has been exciting to watch Cecil College grow from its beginnings at Elkton High School to what it has become today. We have a strategic plan that is progressive and forward-thinking. All these improvements have enabled the College to reach out and support the community. We are here for the students. We are all about the students,” said Trustee Colenda. Additionally, she established the John “Jack” Wade Colenda Scholarship to support athletics, further emphasizing her deep commitment to empowering students both in the classroom and on the field.
Trustee Colenda’s generosity, leadership, and heartfelt dedication to education have enriched the lives of many and continue to make a meaningful difference in our community. Her years of service have helped shape a stronger future for the College and its students, and her legacy will undoubtedly inspire others for years to come. The Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award is a fitting tribute to her extraordinary contributions and tireless spirit.