Although Shenandoah was the last school Donald A. Shubrooks ’17 applied to, within moments of being on campus he knew it was the place for him. “The moment you step foot on campus you realize that though it is small, it is mighty,” said Shubrooks. “The faculty and staff, as well as Dr. Fitzsimmons, will forever place your best interest at heart and do everything they can to guide you towards success.”
Shubrooks’ fondest memories of his time at Shenandoah are being able to continue track and field and transition to the cross country team. He also enjoyed being a Summer Orientation Leader as well as a Hornet Ambassador because it gave him the opportunity to develop as a person.
Shubrooks is a deputy sheriff for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office in Leonardtown, Maryland. He is a patrol officer who responds to emergency and non-emergency calls. Shubrooks duties include traffic and drug enforcement, criminal investigations of crimes, the initial investigation of major crimes (robbery, sexual assault, homicides, etc.) and more.
Prior to his current position, Shubrooks was an assistant track and field coach at Cincinnati Christian University, Clarke University and Millsaps College. “Law enforcement was something I had not foreseen in my future, however after seeing everything taking place in the country, I wanted to make a difference, an impact in a different role than coaching,” said Shubrooks.
The most rewarding part of Shubrooks’ career is being a role model to those around him and in his community. He enjoys providing opportunities for those who don’t have support and encouraging them to reach their full potential.
Shubrooks’ Shenandoah education prepared him for his career by teaching him to be mindful of the experiences some people may go through compared to others. “By being able to speak on my experiences, and how they molded me into the person I am today, I am able to show those within my career that you are able to overcome any obstacle you may face if you set your mind to it,” Shubrooks.
Shubrooks’ advice to students is: “To step out of your norm and do something different. Be the change you want to see in the world. Keep an open mind, and do right by those around you.”