Governor Wes Moore Appoints
Maryland 250 Commission

Governor Parris N. Glendening and Judge Catherine Curran (Katie) O’Malley to Lead New State Commission to Plan, Encourage, and Execute the United States
250th Anniversary in Maryland

(December 1, 2023) CROWNSVILLE, MD –

Governor Wes Moore today announced the appointment of the Maryland 250 Commission. This Commission was created in July 2023 by Executive Order 01.01.2023.10, rescinding a 2021 Executive Order 01.01.2021.03 which created the Maryland Semiquincentennial Commission. 

The Maryland 250 Commission will develop, encourage, and execute an inclusive, statewide, yearlong observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation focused on three themes – history, civics, and service. Nearly 40 states are now planning similar observances. 

"If you don't understand your history, you will never understand your power. The 250th anniversary of America's founding calls on us to reflect on all parts of our history – the good and the bad – and recognize the inner power we all possess" said Governor Moore. " Maryland is home to the origins of American democracy. By learning our history, Marylanders will be better prepared to strengthen American democracy."

Governor Moore appointed as Chair former Governor Parris N. Glendening and Vice Chair Judge Catherine Curran (Katie) O’Malley. Elected officials serving on the Commission include Senator Jack Bailey (District 29) and Senator Benjamin Brooks (District 10), ; Talbot County Council Member Pete Lesher, representing the Maryland Association of Counties (MACO) and Bladensburg Mayor Takisha James, representing the Maryland Municipal League (MML). 

Governor Glendening served as Governor of Maryland from 1995 through 2003. He previously served as Prince George’s County Executive, member and chair of the Prince George’s County Council, and member of the Hyattsville City Council. Governor Glendening served as President of the Smart Growth America Leadership Institute for 20 years, taught at the University of Maryland for 27 years, and is currently an Executive Visiting Professor at Johns Hopkins University. He resides in Anne Arundel County. 

Judge O’Malley, a member of the Maryland State Bar Association, served as an Associate Judge in the District Court of Maryland in Baltimore City from 2001 through 2021 and is now a Senior Judge. She was the First Lady of Maryland from 2007 through 2015. She resides in Baltimore City. 

A complete Commission list is available at planning.maryland.gov/Pages/md250-members.aspx.

All Marylanders are invited to be part of the planning for Maryland’s official commemoration. Ideas for programs, events, or activities can be submitted to the Commission’s virtual suggestion box.  

For more information about the Commission or to sign up for the Commission email list, go to https://mdtwofifty.maryland.gov/. Questions about the Commission can be directed to Michele W. Johnson, Commission Director, at Michele.Johnson1@Maryland.gov.

The first Commission meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 4, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at 100 Community Place, Crownsville, in the third floor MHT Board Room. The Executive Order requires the Commission to submit an Action Plan and Annual Report to the Governor and General Assembly by December 31, 2023.

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