FORWARD. FOCUSED. READY.
Built for This Moment
Shawn Maldon
Former Mayor | Proven Leader | Entrepreneur | Educator
I was raised in Troy, Alabama, where faith, discipline, service, and leadership shaped who I am today.
From an early age, I was deeply involved in sports, church leadership, civic organizations, and enrichment programs. I learned early that leadership is not about titles. It is about responsibility.
As an Eagle Scout, and the first African American Scout to earn that distinction in Troop 41 in Troy, I learned that barriers are meant to be challenged, not accepted. While still in high school, I founded the first local chapter of the American Red Cross Youth Advisory Board. That work earned me the Governor’s Youth of the Year Award Medal, recognizing both service and innovation.
Even then, a pattern was clear. When something did not exist, I built it. That same mindset is how I lead today and how I will serve District 27A.
Education Rooted in Purpose
I applied to only one university, Howard University, because I knew exactly where I wanted to be.
At Howard, I earned dual degrees in Political Science and Spanish, building a strong foundation in government, communication, and leadership. My education was never just about academics. It was about preparing to serve.
I continued my journey at Southern University Law Center, where I strengthened my understanding of legal systems and public policy. After my first year, I made a deliberate decision to pivot toward education and language access, enrolling at Northeastern University and earning a Master of Education in Interpreting Pedagogy.

Every step of my educational journey was intentional. It was never about collecting degrees. It was about building the knowledge and perspective needed to lead, serve, and make a real impact.
Entrepreneur, Educator, and Builder
My work spans entrepreneurship, interpreter education, and business consulting.
I founded Maldon Language Interpreters, LLC, an agency providing American Sign Language interpreters across medical, legal, educational, and government settings. Through this work, I have supported job creation and expanded access for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals across multiple sectors.
I also established The Maldon Academy, a national interpreter training and leadership development platform where I mentor aspiring interpreters and prepare them for professional certification. Through this work, I have helped elevate interpreters, not only throughout Maryland, but across the country.
As a business consultant and entrepreneur, I have guided small businesses and nonprofits in strategy, branding, marketing, and sustainable growth, helping organizations grow, scale, and achieve long term stability.
The Youngest Elected Mayor
At 32 years old, I made history as the youngest elected mayor of Capitol Heights, Maryland.
As mayor, I focused on economic development, resident engagement, and moving the community forward. After decades without significant new development, we began to build real momentum and lay the groundwork for progress.

I committed my first year’s mayoral salary back to the community by establishing The Maldon Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to youth development, community resources, and service initiatives.
For me, public service has never been about position. It has always been about impact. That is the kind of leadership I will bring to Annapolis.
Author, Speaker, and Advocate
I am also an author. My work includes The Maldon Scripture Guide and my political memoir, Lessons in Leadership, Loyalty & Loss: How I Survived Political Fire and Came Back Stronger.
My story is not one of perfection. It is one of resilience, growth, and steady leadership through adversity.
- From Alabama to Howard University.
- From entrepreneur to job creator.
- From educator to mayor.
My life has been defined by leadership in action. Now, I am ready to bring that experience, education, and executive leadership to serve the people of District 27A.
For me, public service has never been about position. It has always been about impact.
A Life Defined by Action
From his early years in Alabama to his academic achievements at Howard University, from building businesses to serving as mayor, Shawn’s life reflects steady commitment to responsibility, service, and growth. His experiences across education, entrepreneurship, public service, and interpreter training continue to guide his work and his dedication to people and community.
Volunteer
Change doesn’t happen from the sidelines. Join our team and help bring proven leadership to District 27A.
This is a people-powered campaign. We need you.
301-736-3333 | 202-486-4237
