ANNAPOLIS (Feb. 14, 2008) – Dr. Kathleen O'Brien, executive director of Walden/Sierra and a resident of Leonardtown, has been selected for the Leadership Maryland Class of 2008.
O'Brien is one of 52 statewide leaders selected to participate in the eight-month program.
Leadership Maryland is an independent, non-profit organization based in Annapolis. The group got its roots from the Maryland Chamber of Commerce in 1992.
According to the group, they seek out top-level executives from Maryland corporations, government, and non-profits in order to "enable them to contribute their time and talents effectively in meeting the rapidly changing challenges facing the state."
Leadership Maryland also says one of their goals is to facilitate networking among State leaders.
Following a two-day opening retreat in April, officials say participants will attend five two-day, and one one-day intense sessions focusing on issues, such as, economic development, education, health and human services, criminal and juvenile justice, environment, and multi-culturalism and diversity. More than 100 experts representing business, government, education, and the non-profit community will serve as panelists and guest speakers.
“The participants represent a broad spectrum of highly qualified executives from an extraordinary group of statewide applicants,” according to Nancy Minieri, president of Leadership Maryland. “After participating in a comprehensive range of experiences over the next year, these leaders will serve as important participants in the unified effort to shape Maryland’s future.”
Leadership Maryland is one of 34 state leadership programs nationwide.