Women of MACo Shine Light on Each Other's Stories

At this year’s Women of MACo Lunch, Maryland’s female county elected officials joined in round table discussions about their careers, and recent challenges and breakthroughs they have experienced.

County Executive Jan Gardner kicked-off the event with a short keynote about her political career. Gardner is the First Frederick County Executive. Before winning that historic election, she served for 12 years as a Frederick County Commissioner, including as President of the Board of County Commissioners from 2006 to 2010.

She served as MACo President in 2007 and is currently a member of the MACo Board. Jan has been named one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women by the Daily Record three times and is a member of the Circle of Excellence.

Following the kick-off, attendees spoke with others about what brought them to public service, and their future plans. At my table, Charles County Commissioner Debra Davis shared her recent decision to file for state office, for a seat in the House of Delegates representing Legislative District 28.

Talbot County Council Member and MACo Board Member Laura Price moderated the event. Price shared how she decided to pursue elected office from her background as a small business owner.