As a member of the Maryland House of Delegates I credit LHC with giving me a broad understanding of how government departments and private entities cooperate to make Howard County the best county in our state.


When Leadership Howard County was launched in 1985 as an initiative of the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, our community looked very different. We were on the threshold of exciting new changes, as our community was developing an identity as a thriving business community and a highly desirable place to live. It was the perfect time to create a network of dedicated leaders to creatively think about our future and empower them to carry that vision forward.
With Shirley Burrill as the first Executive Director, the first class graduated in 1986 with 28 participants. In 1987, Leadership Howard County was independently incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with its first board of directors.
LHC launched Leadership U, a program that enables high school juniors to build their leadership skills while serving their community. Each year, approximately 40 students from both public and private schools in Howard County are selected to take part in this challenging and rewarding program.
LHC’s first Big Event fundraiser was held, featuring Katherine Graham, president of the Washington Post, as the keynote speaker.
The first annual Graduation dinner was held, with annual awards instituted for Distinguished Alumni, Lifetime Legacy, Unsung Hero and Child Advocate.

Stacie Hunt was selected as the new Executive Director in. The Board Bank collaboration was launched with the Association of Community Services and the Volunteer Center Serving Howard County.
The Leadership U “Youth on Board” pilot program was started, with support from the Horizon Foundation. The program offered high school students the unique opportunity to become board members in the nonprofit community.

The Leadership Essentials program was launched, which was designed to prepare and engage the next generation of leaders. Participants receive leadership training, personal coaching, and collaborate with teammates on a community service project.
A restructured Leadership Premier Program was launched which included an enhanced community service aspect that engages participants in real-world concerns and solutions.

Leadership Howard County celebrated its 25th anniversary. Leadership has established a network of nearly 1,000 graduates in every sector of the community: from policymakers and elected officials to leaders in the private business community, nonprofits, education, human services and more.