Faculty and Staff Spotlight - Amy Robison Shimko '94/M'21

Sep 30, 2026 8:00 AM

Bobcat Bulletin Faculty and Staff Spotlight highlights employees who are making a difference on our campus every day and helping to change the lives of our students. This edition of Bobcat Bulletin features Amy Robison Shimko '94/M'21.

Position and Department:

Director of Career & Professional Development

How long have you worked at FSU?

In August, I had my 18th anniversary at FSU. My first FSU work experience started when I was a state work study student the summer before my first year, working for Dr. Alice Manicur with the Summer Planning Conference.

What 3 words can you use to describe FSU?

FSU has always felt like home to me so...Home, Opportunity, and Belonging.

List any professional or personal accomplishments we can celebrate with you.

I am planning to graduate with my EdD in Educational Leadership in December 2026. Three of our four sons have graduated from FSU.

What is your favorite thing about working at Frostburg State University?

The students and my colleagues are what make my work so meaningful. I genuinely love what I do and enjoy coming to work each day. My husband says that even if I won the lottery, I'd probably still show up for work-and he's probably right. I'd just take much more expensive vacations!

What advice would you give to current students?

Take advantage of all the incredible opportunities FSU has to offer. We may be a small campus, but that doesn't mean our opportunities are small. In fact, our size often means students have even more chances to get involved, build relationships, and have experiences that can shape their future.

Sometimes, just a few seconds of courage to step outside your comfort zone can change everything. Get involved, try something new, introduce yourself, and let the campus get to know who you are. Be curious, be open to new experiences, and never stop learning. Your time at FSU will go quickly, make the most of it!

Is there a faculty and/or staff member that you consider a mentor? If so, why?

My connection to FSU and to serving students began long before I became an employee. My mom, Margie (Robison) Nelson, was the Director of Financial Aid when I was a student, and watching her commitment to students helped me develop a deep appreciation for FSU and for the meaningful work we do here.

Dr. Thomas Bowling was, and continues to be an important mentor in my life. His wisdom, guidance, humanity, and integrity helped shape so much of my professional identity, and I'm incredibly grateful for all I learned from him.

Throughout my years at FSU-first as a student and later as an employee-I've also had the privilege of working with and learning from so many remarkable people. The list is long: Dr. John Lowe, Bernard Wynder '78/M'84, Harriet Douglas M'96, Bill Mandicott, Robin Wynder '80/M'87, Dr. Alice Manicur, and so many others. Each, in their own way, has shaped my experience at FSU and the professional I've become. I feel fortunate to have spent my career surrounded by people who care deeply about our students and this university.

What is a cause dear to your heart?

There are many causes that are close to my heart. I've been fortunate to work with organizations that support children, animals, the environment, and the communities we call home. Giving back is something I truly value, and with every opportunity to serve, I'm reminded that I often receive far more than I give.

What do you do for fun?

In my free time, I enjoy gardening, crafting, volunteering, traveling and exploring new places, and-most of all-spending time with my family. I appreciate the simple things that allow me to be creative, give back, make memories, and enjoy life.

Pictured is Amy with her sons, Ashton Shimko '26 , Andrew Shimko '21, and Patrick "Dylan" Shimko '20.