Ericka Norfolk Rohrbaugh ’16, ’21 chose Shenandoah University because of the ability to earn her undergraduate degree in three years as well as it being close to home.
Some of Rohrbaugh’s fondest memories during her time at Shenandoah, include going to the football games with her friends and being a resident assistant (RA).
Rohrbaugh is the assistant director of the Human Service Division for the City of Frederick in Frederick, Maryland. The Human Service Division oversees various departments, which include the Behavioral Health office, Youth Services, Workforce Development Services and a portion of the Case Management program. These offices provide mental health services to uninsured patients of their Federally Qualified Health Center as well as individuals facing homelessness, food scarcity and more.
Prior to Rohrbaugh’s current position, she served as a perinatal wellness program coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where she was an advocate for pregnant women and preventing postpartum depression. She also held various roles in Shenandoah’s Residence Life department from 2016 to 2021, including assistant director of Residential Services.
Rohrbaugh’s most rewarding experience of her career so far is co-leading a project with the Department of Labor that involves developing a workforce pipeline to help provide the youth with sustainable employment opportunities in trades. “I’m not only excited about the collaboration and commitment from the community, but I truly feel honored to be creating a support network for young adults trying to connect to the workforce,” said Rohrbaugh.
Rohrbaugh’s time in the Master of Public Health program at Shenandoah helped prepare her for her career by providing her with hands-on experiences within health education and advocacy programs. Her experience as a RA also helped prepare her to have difficult conversations with individuals in the work setting.
Rohrbaugh’s advice to current and future students is to be adaptable and willing to collaborate. “True innovation doesn’t happen in silos,” said Rorhbaugh.