PRINCE FREDERICK, Md.,- The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners recognized 21 employees as graduates of the 2024-2025 Leadership Academy during its Tuesday, May 9, 2025, meeting. The program, developed by the Department of Human Resources in partnership with the College of Southern Maryland, aimed to enhance supervisory and leadership skills among county employees.
The Leadership Academy, held from September 2024 to February 2025, consisted of six sessions focusing on essential competencies. Topics included foundational leadership skills, team development, effective communication, emotional intelligence, conflict management, and inclusive leadership. These sessions equipped participants with practical tools to lead effectively and address modern workplace challenges.
Each of the 21 graduates earned a certificate and 30 continuing education units, reflecting their dedication to professional growth and collaboration. The graduates were Paula Coluzzi, Hilary Dailey, Kristy Owen, Kirsten Perry, Casey Waldron, Sarah Petska, James Ritter, Summer Roen, Julie Mashino, Nichole White, Izumi Kawakami, Andrew Miller, Dina Davis, Lisa Viverette, John Bennett, Kelly Carlson, Laine Gleisner-Ritchey, Brandi Hood, Amalia Pleake-Tamm, Tom Jones, and John Silcox.
The recognition ceremony took place during the commissioners’ regular meeting, attended by board members including President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance, Vice President Todd Ireland, and Commissioner Catherine Grasso. The event underscored the county’s commitment to fostering lifelong learning and leadership development among its workforce.
The Leadership Academy’s curriculum was designed to address the evolving demands of public service. By focusing on skills like emotional intelligence and inclusive leadership, the program prepared participants to navigate diverse teams and complex workplace dynamics. The collaboration with the College of Southern Maryland ensured a structured, high-quality training experience, leveraging the college’s expertise in professional development.
Participants completed the program over six months, balancing their regular duties with the intensive training schedule. The 30 continuing education units awarded to each graduate are recognized credentials that support career advancement and ongoing professional certification requirements. The graduates’ achievement highlights their perseverance and commitment to enhancing their leadership capabilities.
Calvert County’s investment in the Leadership Academy reflects a broader strategy to build a skilled, adaptable workforce. The program not only strengthens individual competencies but also fosters collaboration across departments, improving overall service delivery to residents. The commissioners’ public recognition of the graduates emphasized the value placed on professional development within the county government.
The 2024-2025 cohort’s completion marks another milestone in the county’s efforts to cultivate effective leaders. As these 21 employees apply their new skills, they are expected to contribute to a more cohesive and innovative workplace. The Leadership Academy serves as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to enhance employee development through targeted training.
