The Leadership Howard County (LHC) Community Impact Award was renamed in 2025 to honor Richard “Dick” Story, a former LHC Board Chair, respected business leader, and devoted champion of Howard County.

Dick’s impact extended far beyond economic development. He believed that strong communities are built through service, collaboration, and a commitment to lifting others. Throughout his leadership, he helped strengthen not only organizations and institutions, but also the civic spirit that makes Howard County a thriving place to live, work, and play. His example demonstrated that lasting success is measured not only by business achievement, but by the positive difference we make in the lives of others.

The Dick Story Community Impact Award recognizes companies that make extraordinary contributions to the Howard County community through their time, talent, resources, leadership, and service. These organizations embody the values Dick championed, using their influence and expertise to create meaningful change and strengthen the fabric of our community.

Award recipients serve as role models for corporate citizenship, compassion, and community engagement by:

1) Showing a commitment to the community by investing time and resources in community-based initiatives and non-profit organizations outside of normal business practices and encourages employee voluntarism and civic participation;

2) Demonstratng leadership in addressing community needs and challenges and has a long-term desire to build diverse, inclusive, and balanced communities;

3) Building partnerships that enhance the quality of life for Howard County residents, making a sustainable and tangible impact in the region;

4) Displaying a clear commitment to social responsibility; and,

5) Serving as an example of leadership in the community by creating a culture of service that extends beyond business sucess and contributes to the greater good.

Eligibility

Application Overview

  • The size and scope of the corporation, and why they should be considered as an entity that demonstrates corporate responsibility and goes beyond the call of duty in the community.
  • How the community has benefited from the nominated corporation’s programs/projects.
  • What lasting and/or meaningful contribution(s)/ impact(s) has the corporation made in Howard County?
  • Nominations will be accepted until Friday, September 18, 2026.
Please ensure that any confidential information is clearly indicated so that it can be appropriately handled accordingly.

Selection Criteria (Not listed in any priority order) will be based on:

  • Quality of commitment/contributions to the Howard County community [may be financial, in-kind, volunteer hours (corporate/employees), or all];
  • Length of service – has the nominated company demonstrated sustained commitment to leadership in corporate social responsibility and service? Leadership qualities – has the nominated company
  • Served in a leadership capacity (in the community)
  • Inspired others (e.g., employees) to engage in being socially responsible and serving our community?
  • Effectively mobilized volunteers, partners, and resources to serve the Howard County community; made an impact on the Howard County community. Been an innovator – how has the applicant utilized unique and creative approaches to meeting needs?

Nomination Form: The 2026 Richard Story Corporate Community Impact Award

Address:(Required)
Nominator Name:(Required)
Primary Corporate Contact Information:(Required)
Max. file size: 2 GB.
Max. file size: 2 GB.
Max. file size: 2 GB.