AACPD Chief, Officers Share Stories About Careers With Glen Burnie High School Students

GLEN BURNIE, MD — Students at Glen Burnie High School listened attentively as Anne Arundel County Police Department's Chief of Police Amal Awad spoke about her career choice last week. Awad was invited to address the students as part of Glen Burnie High School's Public Service Signature Program, which is designed to inspire students to serve and be leaders in the local community.

A key piece of advice she shared: "Wherever you go, let it be your passion and fulfilling. You don't need to know what it is right now. Make sure you feel fulfilled in what you pursue."

Principal Scott McGuire and AACPD Chief of Police Amal Awad

Shirley Wais, Signature Program facilitator at Glen Burnie High School, said students were curious why Awad decided to become a police officer.

"I just really wanted to make a difference. I’ve lost family and friends to the streets," Awad said, adding that she grew up in low-income housing and "grew up fast" as the second oldest of seven kids and helped raise her siblings.

Ann Pingel, communications manager for the county's 911 call center, shared that "no two calls are ever the same." Lt. John McAndrew grew up in Glen Burnie and was hired at 18 as a dispatcher call taker.

"It opened up tremendous opportunities for me," he said. "The Signature program will be [meaningful] for your resume."

Awad shared final words of wisdom with the students: "Make the best decision, we all get caught up. If you are looking to aspire to any job [know that] they look ... to know who they are hiring - your credit, your driving record, whether or not you are responsible enough to pay your bills. Watch your social media. Keep [your] emotions in check. Be thoughtful about the decisions you make."

Other participants included Deputy Chiefs William Lowry and Jerard Flemings and Captain Herbert Hasenpusch.