SPRING 2020

A Publication for Business Roundtable for Education

FEATURE OUR TRIP TO ANNAPOLIS: 3 MBRT Hosts Inaugural Youth Congress Day Event at the Maryland State House 2 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE MBRT’S STATEWIDE ALIGNMENT CONTINUES

Two organizations that feature senior-level executives and statewide impact on the communities in which they serve strengthened their partnership during the past two years.

Leadership Maryland (www.LeadershipMD.org) is a professional development program that harnesses the strength of business and community leaders to focus on Maryland’s most vital social, economic, and education issues. Because those topics have direct relevance to the employers and partners that have participated in MBRT over the years, the staff of our Roundtable has benefited significantly – and offered their unique benefits and expertise – by serving as members of the past two Leadership Maryland classes.

Brian Dulay, MBRT Executive Director, graduated from the 2018 class in December of that year; Nona Carroll, MBRT Chief Strategy Officer, graduated last December as part of the 2019 class. Each speaks highly of the experience and recommends it to other aspiring leaders in our state.

“I made terrific new friends and connections among my 50 classmates that year, and I continue to draw upon and value those experiences during my travels and business needs throughout the state,” Dulay said.

A bonus to their participation in successive classes is an ability in 2020 and beyond to amplify a shared message that reflects those new skills and opportunities. Leadership Maryland began in 1993, and its alumni network now consists of more than 1,100 leaders from all industries and regions of the state. The program uses an eight-month, hands-on travel and reflection model each year, centered each month on two-day intense sessions to utilize classmates’ insights while addressing key topics that vary by region. Ideally, Leadership I found tremendous Maryland members have a desire to learn more about Maryland’s most critical value in learning issues and offer a personal commitment to be a force of positive change in their about the unique organizations and personal/professional lives. aspects of the state while challenging my Examples of immediate alignment between MBRT and the 2018 and 2019 leadership approach and assumptions classes have included: joint invitations for MBRT staff and Leadership Maryland in a safe and well- classmates to serve in advisory roles or as participants on workgroups; connected environment marketing and branding cooperation in multiple workforce sectors; introductory comprising of my membership meetings to potential new partners; exploratory outreach involving 50 classmates, local and state officials who have background with or interest in both Leadership also known as the Maryland and MBRT; and fun, social events throughout the year that allow for #classofdistinction. work-based and personal moments of friendship.

—  Nona Carroll, MBRT MBRT welcomes similar alignment pathways among its Chief Strategy Officer, graduate of Leadership network. Please contact Brian, Nona or a member of our Maryland 2019 staff if your school system or employer participates in leadership development that might offer complementary experiences. We know there is always the potential to do so much more together than when working on our own projects or day-to-day needs in isolation.

Brian Dulay Executive Director IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 3

FEATURE OUR TRIP TO ANNAPOLIS: MBRT HOSTS INAUGURAL YOUTH CONGRESS DAY EVENT AT THE MARYLAND STATE HOUSE B y Natalie Williams, Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs

On the heels of the 2019-2020 school year’s 100th day of school, the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT) held its inaugural Youth Congress Day 2020 on Tuesday, January 21st at the Maryland State Capitol in Annapolis, Maryland. Representing

five school districts, more than 100 students and administrators participated in this first of a kind event for the organization. The event was hosted by the Honorable Maryland State Delegate Terri Hill and supported by numerous members of the Maryland State Senate and House of Delegates.

PLANNING The decision to hold such an event was birthed from the idea of fully supporting and celebrating the success of Year and students to attend to deciding what would be on our 2 of the Next Generation Scholars grant, a state-funded luncheon’s menu - and everything in between. grant program established by Maryland House Bill 1403 (2016) that provides funding for college access through THE ARRIVAL nonprofit organizations to enhance college and career Students and their chaperones had a scheduled arrival time awareness and college completion for low-income Maryland of 8:30 am making for an early start to the day. For some, high school students. As the lead organization fulfilling this traveling from the Eastern Shore, Kent, Dorchester, and grant, MBRT has impacted thousands of students through its Caroline Counties, the ride would be a long one, somewhere programming. By bringing students to the very place where between 1-2 hours in travel time. Prince George’s County laws are passed, budgets are approved, and assumptions students enjoyed what amounts to a normal commute in the are made on their behalf, it was the perfect opportunity to DC Metropolitan area, a 45 minute ride. have their presence felt, and for some, their voices heard on this day. Upon arrival, all students entered through the security entrance having their bags scanned and displaying their I.D.s Understandably, the idea of planning a trip with 100 students for entry into the grand halls of the Lowe House of Delegates in the month of January seemed a bit risky to some given the Office Building. Once inside, they would find beautiful marble potential threat of wintry weather, news of impending exam floors, bright lights, walls adorned with historical artifacts, and schedules, transportation challenges and the opening of the lots of people on the move. 441st Legislative Session of the Maryland General Assembly. Mary Mulvihill, Maryland General Assembly’s Visitors With the cooperation and leadership of the Honorable Program Coordinator, along with four dedicated tour Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, now former Senator and Co-Chair of guides, welcomed students to the Maryland State House the Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee, and discussed the significance of the students’ planned we were able to do nearly the impossible despite the activities, and shared a video, “The Legislative Process,” odds. In the short span of two months, my colleagues and which illustrated in-depth how a bill moves forward through I planned a full day of events, from identifying schools General Assembly to become state law. 4 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

Divided into four groups, students traveled through the sacred tunnel of the Capitol, a sprawling underground pathway that allows legislators and staffers easy access to the general assembly floor. The groups took turns visiting both the Senate and House of Delegate chambers to witness the general session in progress, providing a better understanding of the state legislative process. Following the session, students from Surrattsville High School (SHS) in Prince George’s County had the pleasure of taking pictures on the General Assembly floor with Senator Thomas V. Mike Miller, Former President of the Senate, and alum of SHS. Many students found the viewing to be quite informative and engaging. “I liked seeing behind the scenes of how things work in Congress and I would really like to know how to become a part of Congress now!” said Cortney Wai, an 11th grader from Colonel Richardson High School.

TOURING OF HISTORIC ROOMS Students also visited the Rotunda, the largest wooden dome in North America built between 1772-79 and added to the statehouse between 1785-94. It is home to President ’s copy of his resignation speech as commander-in-chief of the given in the Old Senate Chamber on December 23, 1783. The document is considered by historians to be the fourth most important document in American history.

In the Senate Committee and Stairwell Rooms, students viewed historic portraits featuring George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, and at Yorktown, VA. The portraits depicted a significant moment in US history leading to the end of the Revolutionary War, as well as, features historical portraits of Maryland’s four signers of the Declaration of Independence. IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 5

STATEHOUSE SUCCESS

5 School Districts Represented

Nearly 100 Students and Administrators Attended

Maryland Senator and Delegate Participation

Increased Awareness of MBRT in Annapolis

Media Coverage Bryce Davis, from Gwynn Park High School in Prince George's County, was among several students interviewed by WBAL's Education Reporter Tim Tooten Great Feedback from Students and Partners at the 2020 Youth Congress Day. To view more media coverage of this event, please visit www.mbrt.org.

I liked seeing behind the scenes of how things work in Congress and I would really like to know how to become a part of Congress now!

— C ortney Wai, 11th grade Colonel Richardson High School 6 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

The tour concluded with a special exhibit highlighting Abolitionist and his family. The tours allowed for a more hands-on approach to learning history and were, “Way more interesting and better than being lectured in a classroom” (Arianna Bosley, a 10th grader from Frederick Douglass High School).

YOUTH CONGRESS DAY LUNCHEON As the smell of grilled burgers and hot dogs began to fill the halls of the House of Delegates, students, administrators, senators, and delegates made their way to the Anne Arundel County Delegation Room to attend the Youth Congress Day Luncheon.

Michael Davenport, Senior Manager of Workforce Development at ……. we ask that you watch over Gas and Electric, and Co-Chair of MBRT’s Strategic Steering Committee, and guide our President and presented the official occasion of the event and expressed his appreciation Congress Members, that they to the students for their interests in learning about the political process. He will work in a way that benefits reminded students of their significant role in the political process “In just a few all Americans. years, some of you will be able to participate in future elections of Senators, Representatives, and other local officials and in just about 10 months others We pray for our state and local will head to the polls to vote for the President of the United States of America. leaders, that they keep their eyes This is a unique opportunity for you, our nation’s youth, to step up to the plate and ears open to the needs of the and be a part of the political process.” thousands of Maryland residents and always act in the best The luncheon, emceed by Radio One Personality, DJ QuickSilva, provided a interest of the people. casual setting for students to meet their state representatives and interact We pray for our student leaders with their peers. Senators and Delegates representing areas from across and the multifold of students the state greeted the students, answered questions, and posed for pictures entering the numerous school sharing in their enthusiasm and excitement. Delegate Terri Hill, who provided doors every day. Please let their welcome remarks, encouraged students to explore opportunities within the voices be heard as they face State Capitol. issues such as gun violence, overwhelming drug addictions, The luncheon also featured keynote speaker Matt Lawrence, Former NFL and poverty … Player and Founder of Lawrence International, a nonprofit organization that specializes in youth development and mentoring. His message of “winners vs. —  Rip Cornish, 10th Grade, Cambridge-South Dorchester losers” resonated deeply with students like Jaylin Miles, a 10th grader from High School North Caroline High School, who stated, “It influenced me a lot and motivated me to be a better leader.” IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 7

MBRT’s student ambassadors were honored at the luncheon and received certificates of leadership and According to students who appreciation for their commitment to the organization’s Student Ambassador responded to a post-visit survey: Program. Rip Cornish, 10th Grader and Student Ambassador, offered the invocation and benediction prayer, and  agreed or strongly agreed that overall, received an invitation by DJ QuickSilva 100% to appear on his daytime radio show the day was a POSITIVE EXPERIENCE. “The QuickSilva Show with Dominique Da Diva.” “The overall experience  agreed or strongly agreed they of attending was amazing," said Rip. 100% “We took a tour of the building and UNDERSTOOD the PURPOSE of the day. sat in on legislative hearings from both the House of Delegates and the  agreed or strongly agreed they Senate, which was so cool to see after % discussing it in class. I was extremely 99 LEARNED a lot at YOUTH CONGRESS DAY. blessed to lead the invocation and benediction that day, which opened the door for being on the QuickSilva agreed or strongly agreed Youth  % Show. The whole event [Youth 97 Congress Day activities were USEFUL. Congress Day] showed me and my peers our potential and how far we can  really go in life!” agreed or strongly agreed they 94% WILL USE the information they learned A survey conducted after the event shows the same sentiments were felt while attending Youth Congress Day. by all students. What a day! 8 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

 FEATURE YOUTH CONGRESS DAY LEGISLATIVE MEETING -

INSIDE THE NEXT GENERATION SCHOLARS REPORT B y Nona Carroll, Chief Strategy Officer and NGS Program Director

As the Youth Congress Day events were unfolding, MBRT leaders simultaneously conducted a legislative briefing meeting in the Montgomery County Delegation Room at the Lowe House of Delegate Office Building highlighting Year 2 of the Next Generation Scholars (NGS) program. Invited attendees included supporters of Maryland House Bill 1403 (2016) that established the grant and other organizations chosen by the state to fulfill the grant requirements. We were also very delighted to welcome Dr. Karen Salmon, Maryland State Superintendent of Schools, and several Next Generation Scholars students who directly benefit from the grant’s programming efforts.

At the meeting, NGS students MBRT published a report that Research shows that when students discussed the impact the program has summarized key findings of the Next see connections between academic had on their lives and their academic Generations Scholars Community of tasks and their future goals, they are successes as a result of working with Practice Conference held in October more likely to put forth persistent effort NGS coordinators. They also discussed 2019, which convened to allow grantees to demonstrate academic behaviors the importance of continued support of to share best practices for serving that support school success. Through the bill through increased funding and students. The report highlights common the Next Generations Scholars (NGS) program expansion. Dr. Salmon offered areas of work by each grantee, which program, MBRT has the great fortune of her perspective on the program’s value includes communication and promotion being able to offer strategically-timed within the state of Maryland, and the of the program, the importance of and intensive college and career- significance of programs such as NGS caregiver engagement, the value of ready services to a cohort of nearly to support the state’s current graduation community partnerships in support 3,000 low-income students in five rural requirements, and the implications on of academic success, the internal Maryland counties – Allegany, Caroline, the future success of students as they organization impact of the program Dorchester, Kent and Wicomico. Our navigate their path from high school to to grantees, and the importance program is just one of a dozen examples Maryland’s workforce. of effective measurement and of how the NGS program has been demonstrated outcomes. implemented over the last two years. IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 9

Even as Maryland’s poverty rate decreases (9.3% RECOMMENDATIONS FOR in 2017 to 9% in 2018), the state still has 10% more NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS families with a demonstrated financial need than it did Continue fine-tuning program design. Develop a decade ago. Through the grant program, 13 non- an appropriate balance of career versus college profit grant partners reach 3,507 students, which is exposure to ensure students have as much less than 1% of the state’s eligible student population. knowledge as possible to make an informed Subsequently, only a fraction of the 384,470 students decision about their future. who are eligible for the state’s Guaranteed Access Advocate through voices and data. Collaborate Grant apply to receive support to further their with grantees, administrators, districts and local education, which is a goal for the program. chambers of commerce to communicate the value of the Next Generation Scholars program. Leverage The findings from the fall conference demonstrate student voices to share reflections about their significant improvement among the NGS students personal experiences with the program. Include at the selected schools being served by the grant data that underscores both student and partners. For example, at the end of the 2018-19 school community impact. year, MBRT recognized more than 850 students across Prepare students early. Before senior year, hold our five-county footprint who demonstrated good mock college admissions sessions and help attendance, had fewer or no disciplinary referrals and students understand their application profile based achieved good grades (a GPA of 2.5 or higher). These on their current grades. ABCs (attendance, behavior, classroom performance) Over-communicate the program’s goals. are key indicators of student success. Frequently engage in ongoing communication related to GPA requirements, FAFSA forms and As one program leader shared, “Maryland has the income eligibility requirements. Continually find opportunity to clearly demonstrate a sustainable creative methods to communicate with caregivers pipeline for low-income youth to higher education.” electronically, by phone and in person. We are optimistic about the future of the NGS program. Build a village of support. Recruit more However, the uncertainty of Kirwan legislation means community partners to get involved with the all education funding could be impacted in the future. program. Explore non-traditional partnerships at Even so, we must not lose sight of the potential impact local and state levels. the Next Generation Scholars program can have on Let data help tell the story. Know the requirements the future of Maryland. of the school district for collecting information and taking students out of class and/or school. NGS partners provided recommendations for Design surveys that will captivate student interest. supporters of the program in an effort to secure Continually collect data and adjust as needed. its future. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 10 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LOCAL AND positive impact. Allow the program to be showcased STATE POLICYMAKERS at school, district and community meetings, and Signal support for students and families with a determine how you can help create partnerships to demonstrated financial need. Legislation, funding make the program more effective. and advocacy are leadership tools that can spur Provide grantees with options. The Next motivated families, thriving communities and Generation Scholars program raises student and increased economic impact throughout Maryland. school academic performance. Work with grantees The return on investment for the annual $5 million to create dual enrollment options and develop Next Generation Scholars program has widespread alternate programming on school-wide testing as implications for generations to come. well as non-school days. Expand the Next Generation Scholars program. Every district has families with a demonstrated RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STATE AGENCIES financial need; don’t let the ZIP codes students Train grantees on the Guaranteed Access Grant. are born into determine their life opportunities. As universally recognized at the conference, many Expand the program beyond cohorts to increase grantees are wading into uncharted waters with the likelihood of graduating more students who can FAFSA and college applications for high school take advantage of the Guaranteed Access Grant, seniors. Educate grantees about the grant details matriculate to a Maryland institution and begin their and process to help inform discussions with career at a Maryland-based business. students and families as they navigate this Continue to create pathways for students from pivotal year. disadvantaged backgrounds. Ensure families are Produce financial workshops for students and aware that financial assistance exists via legislative families. Understanding how financial aid works as well as education assistance grants. and what financial information families need to report are critical to a student’s college application RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADMINISTRATORS AND process. These workshops can help dispel myths SCHOOL BOARDS and create clarity for more informed decision- Champion the program in your district. making throughout high school. Demonstrating the program’s value will help secure Create opportunities for increased collaboration. its future, increase FAFSA completion rates and Develop a schedule to convene participating improve your district. Consider spending time with nonprofit organizations more regularly, which will the Next Generation Scholars to see real-time allow them to leverage one another, partnerships and best practices.

The Next Generation Scholars program is currently funded through June 2020, but slated for annual renewal until 2023. MBRT continues to work on plans to expand beyond the five counties currently served. IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 11

Maryland’s Source for Business, Legal and Government News

2020 SPECIAL PUBLICATION Way to Be The Maryland Business Roundtable for Education is partnering with The Daily Record, for the 16th year, to create a magazine that provides students with an exciting vision of life after high school, as well as information and tools that will help them reach their career goals. Way to Be is a huge hit with students, teachers, counselors and parents.

As one teacher tells us: “This magazine is an authentic resource for students to see how important it is to start planning for the future ... using real people and highlighting great companies to work for.”

Way to Be has a total print reach of 65,000 plus a digital reach of more than 100,000 through TheDailyRecord.com, MBRT.org, social media and the Way to Be student app. The print magazine will go to 65,000 middle and high school students in all 24 school districts in Maryland. It will also be inserted into the August 28th issue of The Daily Record and be distributed to independent schools at their request. Your marketing message will be in front of parents, teachers, counselors and students. Deadlines This is a rare opportunity to reach your target demographic. Space Deadline: July 10 Materials Deadline: August 3 Publication Date: August 28

Dimensions and Rates Sponsorship Opportunity SIZE W X H GLOSSY 1/4 HORIZONTAL $7,500 (a value of $9,817) Full 7.88" x 9.88" $4,500 FULL • Your company logo on the index 1/2 Horizontal 7.88" x 4.88" $2,500 page 1/2 HORIZONTAL 1/4 Horizontal 7.88" x 2.38" $1,000 • A full-page, four-color ad spread • An employee profile feature in the Full page bleed 8.63" x 10.63" magazine (trim size 8.375" x 10.375") • Your logo in promotional advertising Preferred Position: 15% • A banner ad on MBRT.org Rate Includes Color

To reserve your space, call MBRT at 410-788-0333 or email [email protected] 12 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

 FEATURE EXTRAORDINARY LEARNING EXPERIENCE FOR STUDENTS AT THE US NAVAL ACADEMY

B y Natalie Williams and Caleb Cagel

 On Friday, February 7th, nearly 200 students from Allegany, Caroline, Dorchester, Kent and Wicomico counties who participate in the Next Generation Scholars program toured the Naval Academy in Annapolis and took part in a hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activity focused on space technology for college and career inspiration. This unique educational experience was open to all Next Generation Scholars, including the more than 2% of students currently in a Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program as well as the 40-plus students who have expressed an interest in joining the military after high school graduation. IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 13

DAISY IS A JUNIOR IN CAROLINE COUNTY AND HAS WANTED TO SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES HER CAYDEN HAD A DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE BEING A FRESHMAN ENTIRE LIFE. AFTER VISITING THE FROM ALLEGANY COUNTY SINCE HE IS STILL EXPLORING NAVAL ACADEMY, DAISY SAID, CAREER PATHS. AFTER HIS VISIT, CAYDEN STATED,

I was never sure what branch When I walked onto the Naval Academy campus, I was so that I wanted to join, but now I do excited since this is where I am hoping to attend one day! I after visiting the academy. I plan have always wanted to serve my country and after speaking on talking to recruiters further to with recruiters and doing my own research, I decided the determine whether I should enlist or academy is the best route to serving as a Marine. Touring the go to an officer’s school, and I highly campus and seeing all the military heroes and their accolades, encourage anyone else considering reminded me of my scout troop and the badges that we earn. to speak to their local recruiter about I firmly believe that continuing in scouts will help me achieve options. They can help determine those leadership requirements and experience that the Naval what branch may be best for you and Academy is looking for. your interests as well as determine which path would be best for you after high school! 14 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

“It’s important for our Next Generation Scholars to see and learn about the full gambit of college and career possibilities, including our nation’s military offerings,” Brian Dulay, executive director of Maryland Business Roundtable for Education. “This military college learning experience was designed to help students understand what it’s like to attend a military college and pursue a path of service. In addition, it’s critical that students learn about STEM as there are many professions that use those skill sets and knowledge.”

Students attended an admission briefing where they learned about requirements and expectations of joining the undergraduate university from an active duty Navy admissions officer. Students also participated in hands-on STEM activities, that align with the Naval Academy’s academic program designed to meet the current and future highly technical demands of the Navy. The STEM activities highlighted topics such as cyberspace, circuits and sensors, applied math tessellations, space effects on human physiology, engineering design, zip missiles, and Mars rovers. Students then toured the landmark campus and enjoyed lunch at one of its four on- campus dining venues before returning to their bus for the trip home. IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 15

 EDUCATION WELLNESS MOMENT THE MAKING OF A LEADER

Some people are born with natural- peers and mentoring others born traits of a leader, while for others, prior to graduation. It more it takes a deliberate set of actions and so fell into my lap when perhaps even a myriad of experiences faculty noticed leadership to morph into a leader. Whether qualities that I had not known you are someone seeking to be in a I possessed.” Throughout his leadership position or perhaps just post-secondary education, he deeper relationships for leaders.” want to influence your circle of friends has led seminars for first-year His opinions on leadership extend to or classmates, developing good students, developed and facilitated everyone and not just the extroverted communication skills, confidence, leadership workshops for his peers, or most popular individuals as well. being self-motivated, goal-oriented, and organized the upcoming UMBC “Anyone can be a leader if they focus having a vision, and the ability SGA elections as their election chair on developing the instrumental soft to inspire others is important to for 2020. skills and learning to take risks through achieving your goal. proper risk assessment,” he has shared Caleb’s leadership extends beyond with first-year students at UMBC. At the Maryland Business Roundtable his academics and has landed him for Education, we are building the at MBRT as the Student Ambassador Caleb was also recently recognized next generation of leaders, and Program Coordinator Intern, where by the National Leadership Honor making good leaders better, through he manages our high school Student Society, Omicron Delta Kappa (ΟΔΚ) for professional development programs, Ambassadors from nine counties in superior leadership and class standing engagement opportunities, and Maryland. His work with our program at UMBC. He plans to continue soft skills training. Our MBRT family, and across campus has allowed developing relationships for his fellow including our Next Generation him to be recognized at UMBC’s undergraduates and communities Scholars students and Student University System of Maryland by interning at The Vanguard Ambassadors, are exposed to a Board of Regents invitational dinner Group in their Global Technology myriad of activities and people that by UMBC’s President, Dr. Freeman Operations department where he will help connect the dots from where Hrabowski, and Vice President for be developing his leadership and we are today, to where we envision Institutional Advancement, Gregory professional skills further. ourselves being. Simmons (pictured above). Author John C. Maxwell defines Meet Caleb Cagle. Caleb is a When asked what leadership is to leadership, “A leader is one who graduate of Arundel High School him, he stated: “I believe leadership knows the way, goes the way, and in Anne Arundel County, and is a is about empowering others to do shows the way.” It looks like Caleb is junior at the University of Maryland, things that they did not know they on the right path and well on his way! Baltimore County studying Information could do. Being able to play to your Systems. He stated “I never peers’ strengths is what will result Natalie Williams envisioned that I would be leading in the strongest outcomes and build Managing Editor 16 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

ICYMI STORIES IN CASE YOU MISSED IT … KEEPING YOU INFORMED.

 SCHOOL COUNSELORS: HELPING BUILD BETTER HUMANS Every day, our Next Generation Scholars coordinators partner with school counselors to help students achieve school success and plan their future. MBRT celebrated its positive impact on social media featuring quotes from some fantastic educators during National School Counseling Week (Feb. 3–7). Please join us in celebrating some of our school counselors around the state.

MRS. JESSICA BENNETT MRS. AMY RHODES Kent County High School, Kent Wicomico High School, Wicomico County Public Schools County Public Schools One of the most enjoyable Life is full of potholes. You can things about being a school choose to either sit on the side counselor is watching a student of the road with your flat tire and succeed in school—academically, never reach your destination, or socially, and emotionally— you can fix the flat tire and keep especially a student who has not moving along. The number of been successful in the past. potholes that you come across may not change, but your response to them can change your world.

ANTHONY J. DILLARD MRS. LORI CRISAFULLI Central High School, Prince North Caroline High School, George's County Public Schools Caroline County Public Schools I decided to become a school I would tell students to treat counselor because I believe that every day like an interview. Even "children are the market of the when you are in a job you don't world" and with guidance they like or one you don't see yourself can make a great imprint on the in the long term always give your planet. The one thing that I love best. You never know when you most about my job is helping students to "connect the may meet someone who will open doors for you in your dots" to complete their vision in hopes of creating a future. My life has landed me in some pretty amazing realistic goal that can be obtained and built-upon. places, simply for meeting the right people at the right time.

MRS. MORIAH COHEN KRISTI KING Fort Hill High School, Allegany Cambridge-South Dorchester County Public Schools High School, Dorchester County One of the most enjoyable Public Schools things about being a school I feel like I really get to make counselor is watching a difference in the future of my the students' growth and students whether they go to specifically, watching them college, trade school, military, or overcome an obstacle and straight to work. I also love to hear persevere. from them after they graduate to share what they are doing. IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 17

 IN THE NEWS  MBRT’s Brian Dulay, Executive Director and Nona Carroll, Chief Strategy Officer were recently interviewed by Nathan Scott about the mission of the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education and its Next Generation Scholars program. The interview aired on WLIF-FM 101.9 / WWMX-FM 106.5 / WJZ-FM 105.7 / WJZ-AM 1300.

 Dwight Carr, an invaluable member of MBRT’s Strategic Steering Committee, is featured in as part of a four-part series of articles about African American Howard County leaders in celebration of Black History Month. Carr, a STEM Outreach Manager at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland, “connects students of color and women, to the science, technology, engineering, and mathematic programs,” through the MESA, Girl Power, STEM Academy, and ASPIRE programs.

  CELEBRATING ENGINEERS WEEK MBRT hosted 50 Next Generation Scholars from Wicomico High School at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore (UMES) in celebration of Engineers Week. UMES Chair of the Department of Engineering and Aviation Science, Dr. Yuanwei Jin, welcomed students and spoke about the engineering field. Professors and students from electrical, mechanical, computer engineering and aviation science programs led students through hands-on learning activities, including microcontrollers, robotics, basic circuit discovery, computer-aided design and flight simulation experiences to educate and inspire students to consider and aspire to a career in Engineering. 18 » SPRING 2020 » IMAGINE

ICYMI STORIES IN CASE YOU MISSED IT … KEEPING YOU INFORMED.

 MASTERING THE MOCK INTERVIEW Juniors in our Next Generation Scholars program recently completed 15-minute mock interviews with local employers. The goal was to get students comfortable talking about their skills and interests while learning how to have a professional conversation in an interview environment. “Getting to coach and share tips with kids from my old high school was a real gift,” said Neyah White, owner of Bee's Knees Snacks & Drinks, LLC. Dixon Valve & Coupling Company HR Generalist, Kirsten Moore, shared, “I could tell this particular student was very goal-oriented and is someone I would have absolutely hired on the spot.”

 GEAR UP 2020 MBRT’s Nona Carroll, Chief Strategy Officer and AnaLysa Sawyers, State Program Manager, joined over a thousand GEAR UP partners for a three-day National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) Capacity Building Workshop in Orlando, Florida in February. Attendees heard from experts on topics such as student leadership and development, family engagement and how to use data to build programming. They also shared best practices and strategies on key issues most relevant to their GEAR UP cohort and families. The workshop welcomed several keynote speakers including, Anthony Jack, Assistant Professor of Education at Harvard University, and author of “The Privileged Poor: How Elite Colleges are Failing Disadvantaged Students.” IMAGINE » SPRING 2020 » 19

  BUSINESS PROFILE PREPARING STUDENTS FOR CAREERS IN STEM – A PRIORITY FOR REGINA SCHOFIELD AND BATTELLE

Regina Schofield cares deeply collaborative environment in order to help them succeed in about science, technology, school, in life and in the workplace.” engineering and math (STEM) education. As the Director Through Battelle’s partnership with MBRT, the company of Corporate Engagement hopes to build a solid education foundation for local and Education Outreach at schools, teachers and students. “Our company, with the Battelle, and Vice-Chair of help of local non-profits like MBRT, wants to help build the Board of Directors at the a really strong and effective education program for all Maryland Business Roundtable students and teachers,” said Schofield. “STEM is the key for Education, she’s working to ensure an all-hands- to that effort and can be the foundation that helps us on-deck approach to STEM, with a particular focus in accomplish this goal. With a good STEM foundation and Baltimore. Battelle serves a wide spectrum of research, education, students will be able to improve critical thinking manufacturing and innovation interests for scientific skills, which will allow them to eventually make smart and commercial advantage. The company’s overall choices about their future career pathways.” mission includes the task of inspiring and preparing the next generation of scientists, engineers, tech students Schofield said she hopes to one day combat the belief that and thought leaders whose contributions will advance learning is one dimensional. “A common misconception the industry and the public good. today is that learning is tied directly to reading or knowing how to read. A good education begins with learning “Battelle is guided by its mission of reinvesting its the basic reading fundamentals, but continues to grow profits for the greater purpose,” said Schofield. “Our when the fundamentals of the various STEM fields are company is passionate about making sure every incorporated into a student’s everyday curriculum in order student has access to a proper STEM education to help prepare them for careers in science, information and the available resources that come along with technology, engineering, and math.” And for MBRT, those it. Students need exposure to a rigorous and are fundamentals of its statewide mission in Maryland. Events Calendar

June Aug June June 14 14 Summer 8 MBRT 27 UMD Sun Fri Engagements Mon Annual Meeting Sat Visit

The value and impact OUR TEAM BOARD MEMBERS of MBRT increase with Brian Dulay Alexander G. Núñez, Chair Executive Director BGE the addition of each new Nona Carroll Regina Schofield, Vice Chair member to the Roundtable. Chief Strategy Officer Battelle Christopher Thorn Donna Shopulski New employers joining Chief Technology and Alban CAT Operations Officer Dr. Sandra Kurtinitis our network during the Natalie Williams Community College of Baltimore County Senior Director of Communications Rich Spaulding current school year include and Public Affairs Earth Networks the Maryland Department AnaLysa Sawyers Ronald R. Peterson State Program Manager Johns Hopkins Health System of Commerce and the Joyce Smith Christine D. Aspell Executive Assistant-Programs KPMG National Security Agency. Caleb Cagle Deon Viergutz Make your mark - and help Intern, Student Ambassador Coordinator Lockheed Martin Mark Caylor us to make a bigger one Northrop Grumman NEXT David M. Velazquez together - by joining MBRT. GENERATION Pepco Holdings SCHOLARS Dr. Kim Schatzel More information at Towson University MBRT.org/membership. COORDINATORS Dr. Freeman Hrabowski, III University of Maryland, Baltimore County Aundra Anderson Kent County Dr. Robert L. Caret University System of Maryland Lauri Bell Dorchester County Board member to be named Booz Allen Hamilton Morgan Cox Caroline County Board member to be named IBM Carrie Pannone Allegany County Board member to be named Textron Systems Tashe Williams Wicomico County

Maryland Business Roundtable for Education Maryland Business Roundtable for Education 5520 Research Park Drive, Suite 150 @mbrt Baltimore, MD 21228 Office: 410.788.0333 Maryland Business Roundtable for Education Fax: 410.788.0233 mbrtforeducation