Megan Timmins
Associate Director, Operations
Phone: 443-562-5694
Email: mtimmins@umaryland.edu
Areas of Expertise: Client and contract management | Business development | Strategic partnerships | Public health preparedness | State and local emergency management | Continuity of Operations | Exercise and Training
Certifications: Maryland State Bar, admitted December 2007
Education: J.D., 2007, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law | B.A. in Economics, 2004, St. Mary’s College of Maryland
About Megan
My quest for a career in public service led me to an exciting opportunity in 2007, when one of my law school professors, and former CHHS Director, invited me to join CHHS. Jumping at the chance to contribute to the rapidly evolving field, and to try my hand at something new, I embarked on a career in emergency management. I was immediately engaged in hands-on work, including continuity of operations and mass fatality planning, full-scale exercises, and coordination efforts for the 2009 Presidential Inauguration. While many of my projects at CHHS have been impactful, supporting CHHS’ state and local partners through the COVID-19 pandemic response and recovery stands out as the most challenging and rewarding experience. During that time, we worked tirelessly to assist state and local health departments and emergency management agencies grappling with novel issues. Simultaneously, we were navigating the complexities of remote CHHS operations and how best to support our own staff. I will always be proud of how we came together as an organization, supporting one another while staying committed to our mission, at a time when our partners needed us the most. What keeps me passionate about working at CHHS is the unique blend of substantive community-based work and the collegial environment that cultivates personal growth.
What is your working style?
I believe in being as transparent as possible when it comes to working with others. As the old adage goes, 'Treat others the way you want to be treated.' In making decisions, solving a problem, or trying to understand a situation, I would rather have all the information, even if it isn't positive or what I want to hear. Keeping that in mind, I extend that same courtesy to my colleagues and clients.
What's a fun fact or hidden talent you have?
I enjoy writing for fun. I’m not sure if it counts as a hidden talent or just a hobby. The answer probably lies in the eyes of the beholder. For now, I am only subjecting my family to my musings but when I get published, I’ll let you know!
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
Focus on creating a personal and professional balance. It’s important to enjoy what you do, but it is even more important to find an environment where you can thrive. This field relies on effective teamwork, open communication, and willingness to learn, so I would encourage anyone getting started to find a setting where those things are fostered.
