Clery coordinator Allison Shelley worked in the construction industry for 15 years before joining the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). 

“I specialized in commercial doors and locks,” she says. Now, she’s completely changing her field and interest of study. 

So what does the construction industry and being a Clery coordinator have in common? “This is largely a project coordinator position, which I have parallel skills for,” Shelley says. “I wanted a career that can help people so they can enjoy all Baltimore has to offer.”

Born in Bolton Hill neighborhood of Baltimore, Shelley has deep roots in the community. “Baltimore gets a bad rap,” she says. “Baltimore has a rich culture in music, visual arts, medicine/medical research, and academia. Baltimore has a huge heart and a lot of beauty. Be aware of your surroundings when you go out, but spend some time and get to know our amazing city.”

As a new employee, Shelley is still earning certificates and getting to know members of the UMB community. “I know I have a lot of people to meet, but I’m looking forward to working with Campus Security Authorities [CSAs] and Clery Council members,” Shelley says.

Shelley also is finding that Clery has lots of “gray area.” She recently created a team of Clery coordinators from all University System of Maryland schools so they can better collaborate. She says she’s looking forward to training, collaborating, and learning. By next year, Shelley says she hopes to have a larger grasp on everything Clery. 

Shelley also is known for her office décor. The Clery coordinator is a fan of everything Marvel, Star Wars, and Doctor Who. She has a “ridiculous” collection of R2D2s as well as other Star Wars and Marvel memorabilia and artwork. “My office is just a small showcase of it,” she says. “It’s allowed me to meet more people. I hope it’s a place people can come to and feel comfortable in.”

Outside of work, Shelley enjoys cooking and baking for others. She says she’s a bit of a foodie and likes trying new things. She’s a fan of Baltimore sports (“You can find me at every home Ravens game cheering on my home team!”) and fundraises with the Charm City Ghostbusters for many charities throughout the year. And she podcasts and writes different movie/pop culture reviews.