Speech and Testimony
County Executive Leggett’s Remarks at the MLS LEADS Inaugural Event
Keynote Speaker Introduction
Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring
As prepared
Good morning and thank you for joining me here today!
To provide exceptional, innovative services to our diverse community of Montgomery County residents, it is vital that we have effective, innovative leaders throughout our organization. That is why I have charged Shawk Stokkes with bringing this intiative to life.
Leadership development is key to enhancing both individual and organizational performance, and I am pleased to be able to support the rollout of MLS LEADS.
Today’s keynote speaker, Dr. Freeman Hrabowski, truly embodies the qualities of a dynamic leader. Since 1992, he has served as President of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
UMBC has been recognized as a model for inclusive excellence by such publications as U.S. News, which has recognized UMBC for the past eight years as a national leader in academic innovation and undergraduate teaching.
As a consultant on science and math education to national agencies, universities, and school systems, Dr. Hrabowski was selected by President Obama to chair the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans.
He has been named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by TIME and one of America’s Best Leaders by U.S. News & World Report.
Here are just a few of the awards he has received throughout his career:
- The Theodore M. Hesburg Award for Leadership Excellence
- The Carnegie Corporation's Academic Leadership Award
- The Heinz Award for contributions to improving the “Human Condition”
- And, just last month, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Council on Education
On a personal note, I have heard that Dr. Hrabowski is a basketball fan. So, I believe it is fitting to recognize a different kind of achievement that recently took place during his watch: the stunning victory and historical upset by UMBC’s men’s basketball team. Way to go, Retrievers!
It is now my honor and privilege to introduce to you our dynamic, keynote speaker, Dr. Freeman Hrabowski.
# # #
Release ID: 18-016
Friday, April 6; 9:10 a.m.