ST. MARYS CITY- Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, a 2006 graduate of St. Marys College of Maryland, will deliver the keynote address at the colleges 2026 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 16, on the Townhouse Green.
Scott, the 52nd mayor of Baltimore, made history in 2024 as the first Baltimore mayor in 20 years to win re-election. His selection as speaker marks his second time addressing St. Marys College graduates. He spoke at the 2021 virtual ceremony.
During his first term, Scott led Baltimores first-ever Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan, which contributed to reductions in violence. The city also recorded an 18 percent decrease in vacant properties, reaching the lowest number in two decades. His administration follows five core pillars: building public safety, prioritizing youth, clean and healthy communities, equitable neighborhood development, and responsible stewardship of city resources.
Before his election as mayor in 2020, Scott served eight years on the Baltimore City Council, representing the 2nd District. He was one of the youngest people ever elected to the council and was unanimously chosen as council president by his colleagues.
At St. Marys College of Maryland, Scott actively participated in the Black Student Union and student government. He also DJd events on and off campus. Assistant Vice President of Alumni Relations David Sushinsky 02 said, Scott was deeply engaged in the life of the college, experiences he often credits with helping him find his voice and setting him on a path toward public service.
Scott has maintained strong ties to the college. Earlier this year, he joined a leadership panel hosted by the colleges Black Student Union. Afterward, he posted on social media, I would not be the man or public servant I am today without my time at St. Marys. For that reason, I will always pay it forward to the school or any Seahawk.
As mayor, Scott co-chairs Mayors Against Illegal Guns and serves as president of the African American Mayors Association. He previously chaired the National League of Cities Large Cities Council. He is frequently consulted on violence reduction strategies by organizations and elected officials, including the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention under former President Joe Biden.
A lifelong Baltimore resident, Scott graduated from MERVO High School before attending St. Marys College of Maryland. He lives in the Westfield neighborhood of Northeast Baltimore with his wife, Hana, and their children, Ceron, Charm and Camden.
St. Marys College of Maryland, located in Southern Maryland, continues to produce leaders who influence communities across the state and region. The 2026 Commencement will celebrate the achievements of the graduating class on the scenic campus grounds. More information about the ceremony is available online through the college.
This event highlights the ongoing connection between Southern Maryland higher education and public service careers. Graduates from St. Marys College often carry forward the institutions emphasis on leadership, community engagement and civic responsibility. Scott exemplifies that tradition, moving from student involvement on campus to major roles in urban policy and governance.
The choice of Scott as speaker also underscores the value placed on authentic leadership and straightforward approaches to complex challenges. His track record in public safety and community development offers graduating students practical examples of how education can translate into impactful careers.
Southern Maryland residents and alumni of the college frequently point to such milestones as sources of regional pride. The commencement on May 16 will bring together families, faculty and community members to honor the Class of 2026 while hearing from a distinguished alumnus whose journey began on the same campus.
