ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Dr. Carys Mitchelmore, a professor at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, graduated December 2 from Leadership Maryland’s prestigious Executive Program during a ceremony at the Westin Annapolis.
Mitchelmore, a Calvert County resident, joined 50 other senior-level executives selected statewide for the Class of 2025. She now becomes part of Leadership Maryland’s alumni network of more than 1,600 leaders across business, government, education, and nonprofit sectors.
The eight-month program began with an orientation retreat and concluded with a closing session, framing five two-day immersive experiences that examined Maryland’s five primary geographic regions: Western Maryland, Capital Region, Central Maryland, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore.
Sessions addressed economic development, education, health and human services, criminal justice, environmental sustainability, and multiculturalism and diversity. More than 100 Maryland experts served as panelists and speakers, offering firsthand insight into the state’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.
“On behalf of our staff, board, and membership, I congratulate the Executive Program Class of 2025 and Emerging Leader 2nd Class on their incredible achievement,” said David Fike ’16, president and CEO of Leadership Maryland. “The graduates of both programs have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth, and I am confident they will continue to drive meaningful change in their communities and across Maryland as part of our alumni network.”
Mitchelmore’s research at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory focuses on the effects of contaminants on aquatic organisms, ecotoxicology, and the environmental fate of pollutants, including microplastics and oil-spill dispersants. Her work has informed state and federal policy on Chesapeake Bay restoration and coastal resilience.
Leadership Maryland, founded in 1992, accepts applicants who hold significant leadership roles and demonstrate a commitment to community impact. The selective application process reviews professional accomplishments, volunteer service, and potential to influence positive change.
The 2025 class marks the 32nd cohort of the Executive Program. Graduates automatically join the alumni association, which hosts continuing education events, regional networking gatherings, and service projects throughout the year.
In Southern Maryland, Leadership Maryland alumni include current and former elected officials, chamber of commerce executives, hospital administrators, and nonprofit leaders from Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties.
The organization maintains headquarters in Annapolis and operates as an independent, nonprofit professional development entity unaffiliated with any university or government agency.
Applications for the Leadership Maryland Class of 2026 open in early 2025. Senior executives interested in the program may visit leadershipmd.org for eligibility requirements and deadlines.
