Maryland 2020 Census Champions

A Maryland Census Champion is a person or group that has gone above and beyond in spreading the Census message in their community. Census Champions have devised innovative ways to get their community engaged in completing the Census. The individual or group being nominated could be a member of a local complete committee, a faith leader, a business leader/owner, or even someone in the community making a difference. We will post the recipients of the Census Champion in our weekly Census Newsletter and on social media.

Maryland's Census Champions


Ray Dintino

Color Craft Business Printing

May 29, 2020

Our first Census Champion designated is Ray Dintino, owner and operator of ColorCraft Business Printing, Inc. in Millersville. ColorCraft is a small business enterprise and Ray is a veteran.


​Jordyn Kuczak

Worcester County

June 5, 2020

Jordyn Kuczak is the Communication Technology Assistant to the Public Relations and Special Events Coordinator at the Worcester County Board of Education and is the education representative to the Worcester County Complete Count Committee. "From the very start Jordyn stepped up to the plate to design all of the 'branding' for 2020 Census Worcester campaign while managing her responsibilities at the Board of Education. Jordyn has designed pull-up banners, table runners, table tents, flyers, register receipts, banners and social media posts." states Kelly Henry, Complete Count Coordinator for Worcester County.


​Dr. Richard Midcap

President, Garrett College

June 5, 2020

Dr. Richard Midcap is the President of Garrett College. Thomas Vose, Director of the Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County and Census Coordinator for the county has this say about Dr. Midcap: "Dr. Midcap has been exemplary in his support of the Census project in Garrett County, working closely with the Bureau to deliver campus figures, volunteering the use of his space and staff for an in-person Census site, and ensuring that Census promotional materials are included in his marketing and website."


 

​Shawna Kearsley

Crisfield Arts Syndicate, Somerset County

June 5, 2020

Shawna Kearsley, Executive Director of the Crisfield Arts Syndicate, used her social media skills and community connections to create a Census film challenge, regularly post on social media, and organize food distribution for the residents in Crisfield. She was always quick to provide input and solutions, and took every opportunity to hand out flyers, talk about the Census, and post encouragements on social media. Kristen M. Tremblay, Census Coordinator for Somerset County, has this to say about Shawna, "I feel blessed to have had her as part of the team, and am glad to have met her throughout this process. I now have a friend for life!"




 

​Mt. Carmel Baptist Church

Pastor Carroll Linwood Mills,
Somerset County

June 5, 2020

Pastor Carroll Linwood Mills as the leader of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church is more than a leader, he is an inspiration. He attended all of Somerset County's Complete Count Committee meetings. Under Pastor Mills' leadership, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church led food distribution mission where church members took the opportunity to hand out hundreds of flyers and census related materials to residents in need. Pastor Mills always brought a smile, and his team of volunteers were like a well-oiled machine. "I had the opportunity to get to know him and his parishioners and feel more connected to my community as a result. Somerset County is lucky to have him," said Kristen Tremblay, Census Coordinator for Somerset County.


​Sara Arnold

Carroll County Public Library

June 12, 2020

Sara Arnold, Carroll County Public Library, is Library Associate II at the Mt. Airy branch. She has attended state and national workshops and conferences on the topic of community preparation for the U.S. Census. Sara has trained Carroll County Public Library staff on how libraries can engage and support Census efforts and is involved in the Maryland Library Association and its Future of Libraries Task Force. She serves as an active member of the Carroll Census Education, Youth, and Libraries workgroup and as co-chair of the Seniors workgroup. She offered two training sessions for community partners on Census 2020, the new online census form, and how best to provide assistance to the people they serve. Sara has gone above and beyond all expectations with keen insights, high-quality efforts, and ability to strengthen community collaboration.


​Dave Battaglia

Clear Channel

June 12, 2020

Dave Battaglia has been an outstanding asset to the Maryland Department of Planning's marketing efforts for the 2020 Census. He has gone above and beyond in assisting the State of Maryland reach hard-to-count communities to encourage Census completion. We applaud his commitment and perseverance during these challenging times and thank him for his continued dedication.


​Courtney Brohawn

Frederick County

June 19, 2020 

Courtney Brohawn is the Project Coordinator for the Frederick County Public Libraries. She serves on the Frederick County Complete County Committee and has been a powerful supporter of our efforts to reach out to residents of Frederick County. As a member of the CCC, she played a vital role in developing strategies to communicate the importance of completing the Census to our community. Early on in our efforts, she printed and posted fliers, localized for our audience, in all of the libraries to encourage everyone to complete the census. When our CCC created Census stickers for restaurants throughout Frederick County to place on carry-out meals, Courtney was the first person to reach out to the restaurants and obtain their approval to use the stickers.


​Amanda Hailey

Wicomico County

June 19, 2020

 

Amanda has been a tremendous asset to the Wicomico County Complete Count Committee as she coordinates with all of the local nonprofit organizations through her network at United Way. She has been present at all of Wicomico County's CCC meetings and was a coordinator with our Party with a Purpose Census promotion event, although it was cancelled due to the pandemic.
 

 

​Edward Lee

Wicomico County

June 19, 2020

As Chairman of the Wicomico County 2020 Census Faith Based Sub-Committee, Mr. Lee has been the point of contact from our steering the Wicomico County Complete Count Committee for all faith-based organizations and has been the lead organizer of our Faith based Community breakfast and dinner meetings with leaders.


Mayor Victoria Jackson-Stanley

City of Cambridge/Dorchester County

June 26, 2020
 
Victoria Jackson-Stanley, Mayor of the city of Cambridge and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, was nominated by Nancy Shockley, Chair of the Dorchester County Complete Count Committee. Mayor Stanley was nominated for this honor because of her tremendous dedication and effort to community outreach. Mayor Stanley has worked tirelessly to share Census messaging in every interaction she has with the public as Mayor and actively participated in the county's CCC meetings. Through her various leadership roles and other community connections, her outreach efforts go far beyond the borders of Dorchester County.

Dr. Branté Dashiell

Wicomico County

June 26, 2020
 
As Co-Chair of the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee (CCC), Dr. Branté Dashiell has gone above and beyond promoting, creating, and encouraging participation in the Census. While a full time educator in Wicomico County, Dr. Dashiell attends every CCC meeting, encouraging members to support a strong and complete Census count in Wicomico County. "Branté, with assistance from Co-Chair Sonya Whited, are the heartbeat of the Census in Wicomico County," said Jesse Drewer on behalf of the Wicomico County CCC.
 

 

Karen Monteith

Town of Denton/Caroline County

June 26, 2020
 

​Karen Monteith, Clerk-Treasurer for the Town of Denton, has been the town's representative to the Caroline County Census team from the start. Karen has submitted grants for getting the Census messaging out to county and town residents and has involved staff to continually post Census information on the town's website.


 

Michael Kent

Calvert County​

July 2, 2020 

Michael Kent continually reaffirms his commitment to persuade all his colleagues in his network to respond to Census 2020. It is woven into every action he undertakes. He has aligned his narrative to show the need of every county resident to be counted, and to bring in more federal funds for public health and economic development. Michael has consistently shared his knowledge of how to reach certain hard-to-reach communities, including the black and illiterate populations. He has spoken to numerous community groups about the importance of the Census, emphasizing family history as a way to convince people how important it is to participate. Michael participated in the Calvert County 2020 Census public service announcement video. He has been a true asset to the county's complete count committee.


 

Councilmember Deni Taveras

Prince George's County

July 2, 2020

​Councilmember Deni Taveras (Prince George's County, District 2) has been, and continues to be, an energetic voice in messaging the crucial need of a complete Census count. She has made public press appearances to educate her constituents, many considered to be in hard-to-count communities. The Councilmember’s office has made achieving an accurate Census count a major priority, demonstrated by their offering of a Census phone bank training designed to teach volunteers to provide real-time information, in English and Spanish, to community members who need assistance completing their census form. Councilmember Taveras is an active member of the Maryland Latino Census Coalition. She has involved not only non-profit organizations in the area but also other government agencies, faith based organizations, and institutions of higher education. Simply said, Councilmember Taveras involves everyone in the community.


 

Sonya Whited

Wicomico County

July 2, 2020

​As Co-Chair of the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee, Sonya has gone above and beyond in promoting, creating, and encouraging the Census and ways for residents to complete it. She is always promoting Census events and videos on her many Facebook pages and, with assistance from Co-Chair Dr. Brante Dashiell, is the heartbeat of the Census in Wicomico County!


 

Daryl Boffman and staff at Frederick County Public Schools

Frederick County

July 2, 2020​

Daryl Boffman, executive director of public affairs, and his team from the Frederick County Public Schools are playing a valuable role in reaching out to the families and students in Frederick County communicating the value of completing the 2020 Census. Daryl serves as a member of the county's complete count committee. From the beginning of the county’s efforts, Daryl never hesitated to answer calls for help with projects. He was the point person for the effort to insert Census information into the meals being provided to students before and during COVID-19. Most recently, he suggested inserting fliers into report cards of those students attending schools where the largest hard-to-count population reside. Through the efforts of many Frederick County Public Schools employees, fliers went to more than 11,000 students and their families.


 



Marianne Roberts

Calvert County

July 10, 2020​

The Calvert County Complete Count Committee’s Interfaith Census Champion, Marianne Roberts, is able to accomplish the elusive achievement of reaching congregations of every faith. A number of the county's religious minority residents are immigrants and among the under-counted population. She reached out to these religious leaders in every community to try and obtain the maximum self response from this group. She was unrelenting in her attempts to get posters put up in full view in local post offices. She has spent a great deal of time communicating with the congregations to spread the word about the 2020 Census and always comes up with thoughtful comments and ideas at committee meetings.


 



Hjarman Cordero

Montgomery County

July 10, 2020​

Even before September 2019, when the City of Rockville launched its “Everyone Counts” campaign, Hjarman Cordero has been a tireless champion for the entire Rockville community, advocating and raising awareness for the importance of participating in the 2020 Census. The Census is one of the Rockville mayor and council’s central priorities and Hjarman has been at the forefront of this effort, reaching out to the community in numerous ways through the city’s Public Information and Community Engagement Division. He acts as the liaison with Montgomery County government, the Montgomery County Complete Count Committee, the Montgomery County Office of Community Partnerships, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, and the U.S. Census Bureau. His hard work has focused on the hard-to-reach Rockville neighborhoods and communities, including racial and ethnic minorities, low-income and homeless families, non-English speakers, and isolated seniors. He personally assembled approximately 100 Census yard signs placing them in eight neighborhoods with low response rates. Hjarman led the effort to create and include a census insert, in multiple key languages, in the April edition of the city’s newsletter sent to every home and business in Rockville. He delivered flyers in English, Spanish, and Chinese to several multifamily housing units throughout the city. Under his leadership, the city placed window clings at key bus stops and in city facilities.


 



Julia Glanz

Wicomico County

July 10, 2020​

Julia Glanz, who in the past month made local news as the new acting Mayor of the City of Salisbury with the mayor’s recent military deployment, has been the lead marketing and media design coordinator for the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee since its inception. Julia brings life, creative ideas, and unique solutions to the committee, which benefits greatly from her unique skill set.


 



Golshan Jalali

Prince George's County

July 10, 2020​

Ms. Golshan Jalali has championed the Census effort through her expertise in social media messaging. Golshan has gone beyond her role in order to share the vital importance of the Census in creative ways and has used a design-oriented approach to provide content to multiple stakeholders. She tirelessly promoted Complete Count Committee events and initiatives through her design and social media acumen, including: Four “Count Me In” Series events in April; the “CountMDin” Digital Action Campaign; a thermometer/tracker and University of Maryland Toolkit displaying self-response rates of the state, Prince George’s County, and City of College Park in a creative way; and a Video Challenge offering prizes for short, creative videos created to educate the public on the Census. Golshan worked hard on student outreach at the University of Maryland at College Park, including posting Census banners at prominent campus lectures and events, working with the VP of Student Affairs to send email sent to students informing them on where and how to respond to the Census, and creating a faculty presentation for sharing with students. Golshan has consistently capitalized on popular trends to highlight the Census, demonstrated by her vast portfolio of digital communication graphics and campaigns.


 



John Watson

Maryland Department of Planning

July 10, 2020​

John Watson has been a valued member of the Maryland Department of Planning's Census 2020 Team for the past year. In fact, today marks his one-year anniversary on this project. As Maryland Census Outreach Coordinator, his work with local complete count committees and the state complete count committee has been instrumental to the success of the Maryland Census. John’s dedication to ensuring every Marylander is counted has made him invaluable to the Maryland Census Team.


 



Lori Carter

Wicomico County

July 17, 2020​

Lori Carter, the Director of the Wicomico County Department of Planning, Zoning, and Community Development, is the strategist and planner for the Wicomico County Complete Count Committee and has been a driving force for the committee since its inception. Along with Co-Chair’s Sonya Whited and Dr. Brante Dashiell, Lori has spearheaded the media campaign for Wicomico County's Census effort and several neighboring counties.


 



Rya Griffis

Prince George's County

July 17, 2020​

As a leader on the City of College Park Complete Count Committee, Rya Griffis has forged partnerships with leadership at the University of Maryland and U.S Census Bureau in order to achieve an accurate count for an area often plagued with under counts due to a transient population. She was instrumental in spearheading a city-wide event, Census Palooza, designed to increase knowledge and excitement around the Census (unfortunately due to COVID-19 the event was cancelled). Finding other ways to generate interest to complete the Census, Rya served as a panelist on the “Count Me In” series shared on Instagram Live. She has also been at the forefront of counting the immense student population in College Park by partnering with landlords and property owners to educate students on where to count themselves. As a Master’s student in the UMD School of Public Health, she has effectively bridged the topics of COVID-19 and the medical resources secured by federal funding from Census data.


 



Anthony Nolan

Prince George's County

July 17, 2020​

Anthony Nolan is Chief of the Special Programs Division in the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation. His primary professional responsibilities include the management of childcare, countywide youth and senior programs, and therapeutic recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Anthony has gone above and beyond his professional responsibilities to support Census outreach activities, many of which have been held in facilities managed by his department. He has been extremely helpful, flexible, resourceful, and seemingly always available. As a member of the Complete Count Committee (CCC), Anthony serves as the co-chair of the Parks and Libraries subcommittee. Anthony has supported the participation of his colleague, Lynn Butler, in her role as the Senior Population subcommittee co-chair on the CCC. Their collaboration resulted in several innovative outreach activities such as Census Senior Bingo and other opportunities during COVID-19 to frequently communicate, engage, and keep in touch with our senior residents while reminding them to complete the census.


 



Senator Mary Beth Carozza

Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties

July 17, 2020​

Senator Mary Beth Carozza represents some of Maryland’s most hard to count areas in the state. She has been an advocate for the Census in several ways including sending Census information to her constituents, sharing Census Social Media content, providing Census literature and information in her Annapolis Office for constituents, and implementing a “Take the Census” button on her emails that takes constituents directly to the form. Senator Carozza is the first Maryland legislator to include this button in her emails and to be named a Census Champion.


 



Kim Crispino

Caroline County

July 17, 2020​

Kim Crispino has been active with the Town of Denton's Census outreach effort by attending every Farmers Market and Third Thursday event in town to promote and to have residents fill out their Census Forms on site. Kim also works on the print material used for Census outreach and maintains the Facebook page for the Visitor and Heritage Center to promote the Census.


 



Fai Nelson

Prince George’s  County

July 24, 2020​

Fai Nelson is actively engaged in Prince George’s County as a Census Ambassador for nonprofit and community based organizations. She has been a valuable member of the county's Complete Count Committee since October 2019. Fai has gone above and beyond by seeking out and initiating opportunities within the community to promote the Census. As a member of the Mocha Moms Northern Prince George’s County Chapter, she executed a Census Sound Off weekly series, covering topics such as why the Census is important – now even more crucial following COVID-19 – and what the data indicates for the county. Fai has contributed many hours of her personal time, volunteering and participating in numerous CCC events including hosting information tables, establishing Census Hubs in traditionally low response rate communities, conducting hundreds of telephone bank calls to county residents, developing Census public service announcements distributed on social media, and by engaging in several trainings and webinars.


 



Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk

Anne Arundel and Prince George's Counties

July 24, 2020​

Delegate Peña-Melnyk is a member of the Maryland Latino Census Coalition, a group of elected and appointed officials focused on counting hard-to-reach populations, and communities where English is not the first language in the household. Delegate Peña-Melnyk has attended food distributions to support her community during COVID-19, providing information on the Census. She has shared the importance of the Census as a panelist on multiple social media events, including the “Count Me In” Series on Instagram Live and “CountMDin: The Importance of the 2020 Census Amid Covid-19” on Facebook Live. On many occasions, she has shared her legislative expertise to explain, in English and Spanish, the valuable resources and funding provided by the Census.


 






BJ Hall and Adrianne Dillahunt

St. Mary's County

July 24, 2020​

William "BJ" Hall, president of the NAACP Chapter 7025, and Adrianne Dillahunt, Equity Coordinator for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, have taken every opportunity to advocate for completion of the 2020 Census. Both serve as members of the County’s Complete Count Committee. A big part of BJ's and Adrienne's outstanding effort is a weekly Facebook Live show they host called “Sunday’s in the Park,” where they continuously provide updates on the Census progress and advocate for completion.


 



Joni Martin Williamson

Wicomico County

July 24, 2020​

Joni Martin Williamson has been outstanding in providing organizational resources promoting the 2020 Census to the agents in her firm, ERA Martin Associates, and the Coastal Association of REALTORS. Edward Lee, ERA, of the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee stated that "this type of support from the business community goes a long way in reaching those residents that we are trying to reach."


 



Jesse Drewer

Wicomico County

July 31, 2020​

Jesse Drewer joined the Wicomico County Department of Planning, Zoning, and Community Development in December of 2019, and since that day, has became active in helping the department with the 2020 Census efforts. Jesse's contributions to the county's Census campaign have been extraordinary. He brings talent, creativity, and willingness to help in any way. He assists the Co-Chair, Sonya Whited, with the Facebook page management, the setup of our Virtual Complete Count Committee, and community meetings. He worked with the local planning staff to create a Census tracking thermometer map. Jesse has helped lead local outreach by organizing and setting up Census footprints at community events where residents were able to complete their Census onsite. The Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee appreciates his commitment to wanting to see all residents of Wicomico County counted.


 



Lisa Orndorf

Caroline County

July 31, 2020​

Lisa Orndorf has been active with the Census outreach effort by coordinating the Town of Denton's social media and web sites with current Census materials for Caroline County and the town. Lisa also works on print material used for Census outreach and maintains the Visitor and Heritage Center Facebook page to promote a complete count in the Census in 2020. Lisa also works on providing updates to the town on any questions  received through the social media accounts.


 






Dawn Tucker and Roseanna Vogt

Calvert County

July 31, 2020​

Who best to take the lead to reach the under-counted minorities of every category in Calvert County than the Calvert County Minority Business Alliance’s own Dawn Tucker (Immediate Past President) and Roseanna Vogt (Vice President). Dawn and Roseanna did not leave any leaf unturned alerting African-American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, women, and the disabled business owners and consumers in their commercial community to be counted in Census 2020. They heeded the U.S. Census Bureau experts’ message, assessed the needs, and planned their targeted strategy to spread the word throughout their network and beyond. Their agile efforts are helping Calvert County reach its response rate goal of 90% for Census 2020. Dawn and Roseanna have featured the 2020 Census on the Minority Business Alliance's website, including posting the county’s two Census videos (English and Spanish language). And... Dawn’s two daughters were featured in the English language video.


 



Robin Brown

U.S. Census Bureau

July 31, 2020​

Robin Brown is a Partnership Specialist with the U.S Census Bureau's Philadelphia Regional Office. Robin supported a Census outreach event that was held on Sunday, July 26, at the Word of Life Center church in Salisbury. She was a valuable partner in this event, working in conjunction with Pastor Roosevelt Toussaint, the Maryland Department of Planning (Planning), and the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee (CCC). Pastor Toussaint’s church, which serves the Haitian community, had two services and Robin was instrumental in providing guidance and language support and resources to individuals for completing their Census. Planning and the local CCC appreciate Robin for her positive and professional attitude and look forward to her continued support in future outreach opportunities.


 



Pastor Roosevelt Toussaint

Wicomico County

July 31, 2020​

Pastor Roosevelt Toussaint has served as Senior Pastor for Word of Life Center in Salisbury for 25 years, serving a congregation of more than 400 members. While leading many initiatives within his church community that support the Haitian and Latinx residents, he always finds time to willingly serve throughout Wicomico County and the surrounding communities. Pastor Toussaint has played an integral role to ensure that the growing Haitian community participates in the Census 2020 and advocates for an accurate Census count for this group. He has helped provide a meeting place for Census discussions and activities, while providing a nurturing bridge of support from communication to eliminating any cultural barriers that may impact the Census count. Pastor Toussaint is known for his enthusiasm to serve the people of the community while providing information and resources to make sure all feel welcome and supported.


 



Gloria Aparicio Blackwell

Prince George's County

August 7, 2020​

Gloria Aparicio Blackwell is a Census Champion who brings passion, energy, enthusiasm, and extraordinary effort to her advocacy for everyone’s participation in the 2020 Census. When Prince George’s County was establishing a Complete Count Committee (CCC), Gloria was among the first to be recommended. She has taken a leadership role and has not wavered in her dedication, commitment, participation, and contributions as a stellar advocate for a fair and accurate Census, especially for the traditionally undercounted populations. Gloria is the Director of the University of Maryland’s Office of Community Engagement and has led efforts at UMD to ensure students and the surrounding community are counted. In addition to her leadership on the Prince George’s County CCC, as subcommittee chair for colleges and universities, she is involved in other census committees at the local and state level, including: Organizer and Chair of the Maryland Statewide Latino Census Coalition; City of College Park CCC; and the Maryland Higher Education CCC. She goes above and beyond to connect goals to the community. Prince George’s is proud to have Gloria Aparicio Blackwell’s contagious energy, above and beyond spirit, and motivating leadership as part of the Census 2020 team.


 



Cynthia Brown

St. Mary's County

August 7, 2020​

Cynthia Brown is a 20+ year employee of St. Mary’s County Government. In Cynthia’s everyday position she works closely with the Homeless Prevention Board, the Department of Social Services, Homeless Shelters, Faith Leaders, and Housing Authority among others. She is outstanding in what she does every day and has brought that same energy to the Census. While she is a “behind the scenes” person, nothing happens if Cynthia hasn’t put her finger on the pulse of it – she quietly “makes it happen.” Cynthia leveraged points of contact that she has worked with through her years in St. Mary's County. When the Pandemic hit Maryland, she became fully immersed in taking care of these communities. She remained committed to the Census, staying on top of her outreach channels to provide Census information.


 



Kevin Lindsay

Wicomico County

August 7, 2020​

Kevin Lindsay is the Neighborhood Relations Manager for the City of Salisbury. As an active member of the Wicomico County - City of Salisbury Complete Count Committee, he and his team have been very involved at the local level, going door to door (on 90-plus degree days) promoting the Census and delivering Census door hangers in some of the city's traditional hardest to count areas.


 



Jake Robinson

Worcester County

August 7, 2020​

With the summer season in high gear, Ocean City beaches filled with Marylanders offered the opportunity to connect and engage with beachgoers in creative ways. The ability to convey the importance of the Census to those enjoying the beach via the floating billboard was a clear way to capture the attention of thousands. Jake Robinson, who runs SeaBoard Media, was wonderful to work with as Planning developed Census messaging for the 14’ by 47’ screen that sits on a 72-foot catamaran. The Ocean City Seaboard has been an advertising staple for years and Jake expedited the process to get our signage up and running within hours. Beachgoers from the Ocean City inlet to the Delaware line can view the advertising as far as the eye can see. We can’t thank Jake enough for his support to help ensure that everyone enjoying the sun and sand is made aware of Census 2020.


 



Dorothy Stoltz

Carroll County

August 7, 2020​

Dorothy Stoltz, the Director of Community Engagement for the Carroll County Library, is an active member of the Carroll County Complete Count Committee and chairs the Education, Youth and Libraries Census Workgroup. Dorothy serves as liaison with all library locations and their staff. She organized a program for dedicated Census computers to be available in all library branches with training for staff to provide public assistance. Dorothy designed Census ads that were published in the monthly library magazine, created a social media campaign for the Census on the library’s social media sites, and worked with the library outreach group to deliver Census workbooks to preschools and daycare centers. She made sure that Census outreach materials and signs were placed in all of Carroll County's library branches. Dorothy is creative, hardworking, and always offering her services to help with Census outreach.


 



Terri Lynn Williams

Prince George’s County

August 7, 2020​

Terri Lynn Williams took on the responsibility of letting everyone know about why the Census is important to the community. As a member of the Prince George’s County Complete Count Committee, Terri voluntarily participated in training classes held by the committee as well as courses sponsored by regional and national organizations to become a better Census advocate to her neighbors, family, friends, colleagues, and community. She is an active member of several community organizations, including the NAACP and Ivy Community Charities. She initiated phone bank efforts to reach every member and encouraged them to complete the Census as well as to reach out to ten more households. This “Power of 10” strategy resulted in more than 1,500 calls and text messages. Terri also helped facilitate the establishment of a Census hub in one of the hard to count communities. Within her own neighborhood, she went door to door to distribute Census information and encouraged Census participation in her own faith community. Terri has gone above and beyond as a volunteer, dedicating many hours of her time and offering her talents to ensure Prince George’s County residents are both educated about the Census and accurately counted.


 



Julie Bellamy

Wicomico County

August 14, 2020​

Julie Bellamy, Town Manager for the Town of Hebron, has been a dynamic member of the Wicomico County-City of Salisbury Complete Count Committee. She has been the leader for promoting the Census in the Town of Hebron about the importance of Census, sharing messages in town mailings and at community events. Julie is always presenting great new ideas for promotion and outreach to the committee. Through her efforts, Hebron has the highest self-response rate of all Wicomico County cities. 


 



Senator Addie Eckardt

Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot, and Wicomico Counties

August 14, 2020​

Senator Adelaide (Addie) Eckardt has been a leader promoting the 2020 Census in her community, getting personally involved, and sharing information to her constituents in Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot, and Wicomico counties. She has participated in all Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee meetings to stay informed about the outreach efforts on the lower shore. Senator Eckardt is a leader in working with the local committees and federal partners to help secure training locations for door to door operations on the Eastern Shore. She most recently attended the latest One Stop Shop event in Salisbury to show her support and offer assistance in the final months of the Census outreach campaign. Thank you Senator Addie Eckardt for everything you’re doing to ensure Maryland gets the count on the shore it deserves!


 



Shawn Ellis

 Montgomery County

August 14, 2020​

Shawn Ellis is the 2020 Census Manager for Montgomery County. His tireless work over the past 18 months will have a lasting impact on the county for decades. Shawn partners with stakeholders across government, nonprofit, philanthropy, businesses, faith communities, and jurisdictions to manage county-wide Census outreach strategies that will help ensure that Montgomery County is accurately counted. His work with these partners are focused on traditionally undercounted communities to make sure that they will receive funds for necessary services. The Montgomery County Census Team’s outreach plan was significantly disrupted by COVID-19. During the time without in-person outreach, Shawn worked with partners to disseminate the Census message through all available online and virtual channels. His messaging highlighted that privacy was protected and that the Census could be completed online or via phone. Shawn is central to the county’s Census campaign and outreach efforts led by the Office of Community Partnerships.


 



William Hardin

Wicomico County

August 14, 2020​

Willam Hardin, Community Development Coordinator for the Town of Delmar, is an active member of the Wicomico County-City of Salisbury Complete Count Committee. He has been the leader for promoting the Census in the Town of Delmar, promoting the importance in the town newsletter and at community events, and providing fresh ideas for the committee to implement. William was instrumental in connecting the CCC with Hispanic/Latinx TheVoice Radio Network.


 



Frank Vari

Cecil County

August 14, 2020​

Frank Vari, Town Commissioner of Chesapeake City, has been a dedicated member of the Cecil County Complete Count Committee and has brought Census promotional materials to the town. He involved local community organizations including the Chesapeake City Ecumenical Council to spread the word about the importance of participating in the 2020 Census. Frank has posted Census yard signs throughout Chesapeake City.


 



Delegate Heather Bagnall

Anne Arundel County

August 21, 2020​

Delegate Heather Bagnall (District 33) has gone above and beyond the call of duty to educate, bring awareness to, and motivate her constituents to participate in the 2020 Census. She has utilized her platform to greater effect than any other member of the Maryland General Assembly by recording multiple videos that included residents within her district, elected officials from every level of government, and notable Marylanders. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Delegate Bagnall organized mailers, door knocking campaigns, and town hall events to promote, inspire, and motivate Anne Arundel County Residents to be counted. In addition to preparing her
residents with resources on how to deal with a once-in-a-century pandemic, the importance of Census 2020 never took a backseat. The actions that she has taken has yielded quantifiable results. Her district continues to show leading participation figures by census tracts, leading surrounding areas and other tracts around the county and state.


 



Ana Dudamel

Montgomery County

August 21, 2020​

Ana Dudamel developed a thoughtful long-term plan to engage hard to count residents in several of the lowest response rate Census tracts in Montgomery County. As far back as April 2019, Ana has been raising awareness within the community and never let up this incredible pace through the COVID pandemic. She attended nearly every event in the county to promote Census and has maintained a presence throughout the pandemic. Ana developed a presentation to engage elected officials and participated in educational town hall meetings. Ana designed and executed a phone bank operation to engage community partners and she engaged local jurisdictions in order to amplify an outreach campaign for diverse audiences. She connected with the county’s Food Collaboration Council, advocating about the importance of the Census. Ana personally attends most of the food distributions - QR Code and giveaways in hand -  answering questions and encouraging participation as people wait in line. "Ana has dedicated the last 18 months of her life to Census outreach in the community, and I guarantee our numbers would be much lower without her hard work," said Lauren Sukal, Grants Administrator for the City of Gaithersburg.


 



Barbara Bates-Hopkins

Baltimore City

August 21, 2020​

Barbara A. Bates-Hopkins is Senior Community Engagement Coordinator and Manager of the Day at the Market Community Engagement Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore City. Barbara has been a strong supporter of the 2020 Census outreach effort led by the Women’s Home Preservation Fund (WHPF) at Baltimore’s public markets, namely Lexington Market and Northeast Market. As the city slowly reopened, she made it possible for the WHPF’s in-person Census outreach to return to Northeast Market. The in-person outreach is an essential touch point for many folks in Baltimore who lack access to the internet or stable housing to register for the Census. Barbara's advocacy has been and continues to be vital for increasing the Census count in Baltimore City.


 



Lucia Islas

Baltimore City

August 21, 2020​

Lucia Islas, President of Comité Latino de Baltimore, is a tireless advocate for the Latino community and has gone above and beyond in making sure Latinos in Baltimore know about and respond to the Census. She has created videos, social media posts, and virtual events that encourage residents to complete the Census and to make sure that all children are counted in their households. Lucia has done this all while managing Comité Latino’s outreach efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic!


 



Yaretzi Islas

Baltimore City

August 21, 2020​

Yaretzi Islas proves that it’s never too early to start advocating for your community! She has starred in several videos encouraging members of the Latino community in Baltimore City to complete their Census in both English and Spanish! She reminds us that all children matter and all children count.


 



Laura Russell

Carroll County

August 21, 2020​

Laura Russell is an enthusiastic individual with ties to various communities in Carroll County including faith-based organizations, volunteer groups, and the LGBTQ community, among others. Her connections have been an asset in getting the word out about Census 2020 in Carroll County. Laura was instrumental in shifting resources from the original Complete Count Committee game plan to virtual platforms, assisting all work groups in reworking their strategies. Laura also spearheaded virtual advertising with the Carroll County Times, ramping up the county’s billboard presence, and working on getting roadside banners in strategic locations throughout the county. Laura’s outside of the box thinking lead to Census messages at the farmers markets, the maternity ward at Carroll Hospital, and purchasing sunscreen-sanitizer for distribution at COVID appropriate events. Most recently she has been active in getting the count out in the county's hard-to-count areas and has been working tirelessly on an ice-cream social Census event. Participants will receive a ticket for free ice-cream from an ice-cream truck if they take the Census on a county issued iPad and/or receive Census materials. The hope is that this event will drive numbers up in those areas and bring people out for a fun, socially distanced evening.




Rev. Joshua Agbodeka

Baltimore County

August 28, 2020​

Rev. Joshua Agbodeka is pastor of Heavenly Kingdom Bible Church, one of the largest immigrant and multicultural faith communities in Baltimore County. Rev Agbodeka has thrown his support behind the Census count of hard-to-reach immigrant communities since 2019. He has given access to the premises of the church to the Women’s Home Preservation Fund (WHPF) to conduct 2020 Census outreach for as long as it is needed to count every member of his church and beyond. As a moral leader, his full endorsement of the Census has created a safe space where immigrant communities feel confident to register during the weekly Census drives held by the WHPF at Heavenly Kingdom Bible Church.


 



Mike Amanahu

Baltimore County

August 28, 2020​

Mike Amanahu is an African immigrant success story. Mike is the owner of Heritage International Food, a popular African and Caribbean grocery outlet in Randallstown, Baltimore County. Mike did not hesitate to support the Census count of immigrant communities in the county by allowing the Women’s Home Preservation Fund (WHPF) to hold weekly census outreach at his store. Through these efforts, the WHPF is successfully helping to register hard-to-reach immigrant communities in the Census. Mike preached Census participation, leading by example, when he completed his form in his store. His credibility in the community helps to remove barriers to participation in the Census by immigrants.


 



Laura Berrios, Carlos Berrios, and Josh McCormick

Anne Arundel County

August 28, 2020​

Laura Berrios, Carlos Berrios, and Josh McCormick have exceeded expectations in their volunteer service to Anne Arundel County, as well as the United States Census Bureau. Ms. Berrios was a member of the Anne Arundel County Complete Count Committee (CCC) representing Anne Arundel Community College (AACC). Her service on the CCC has been invaluable to get a large population of the county on board with the Census and motivated to participate in the 2020 Census. Once the COVID-19 pandemic struck Maryland, AACC released Ms. Berrios from employment. However this did not deter her from continued service. The Anne Arundel County CCC was in need of volunteers, so much so that they placed notices through the County’s Office of Emergency Management. Ms. Berrios took it upon herself to recruit her son, Carlos Berrios, and friend Josh McCormick to fill the roles that were needed. This team of three enhanced the public-facing approach and, alone, participated at 40 Anne Arundel County Public School Meal Distribution Sites, 20 Mobile Meal Distribution Sites, multiple food truck rallies and crab feasts, and events at volunteer fire houses. Anne Arundel County’s numbers would not be where they are had it not been for these three individuals answering the call to action. In the face of adversity, three ordinary residents have faithfully served the complete count cause. Their efforts reflect the best of Anne Arundel County and the mission of community service all residents should strive for.


 



Sandie Greene

St. Mary's County

August 28, 2020​

Sandie Greene has excellent person skills and is a tireless and creative user of email and the phone. Sandie created a network of contacts of on-the-ground resources for trusted voices to promote the importance of the Census. She personified “The Little Engine That Could” for the St. Mary’s County Census outreach effort. Sandie exhibits that "I-know-I-can" spirit for the Census every day. She has contacted and enlisted the cooperation of civic clubs, Meals on Wheels, veteran groups, fire and rescue departments, food pantries, senior and group homes, soup kitchens, public and private schools, the Town of Leonardtown, NAS Patuxent River, local businesses, churches, and post offices. She arranged the cooperation of the county Department of Emergency Services in placing movable digital signs at key intersections to remind motorists to fill out the Census. Sandie is the liaison with the county’s subcommittees: Education, Human Services, Business, Community Services, and Media. She has downloaded and printed Census flyers to take to subcommittees for distribution. Lee Osberry, Partnership Specialist with the U.S. Census Bureau, and Sandie have coordinated supplying Census promotional products to many of the groups contacted above for distribution to residents. Sandie Greene participates on weekly calls, taking notes, following up on the good ideas she has heard, and reporting what she has been doing.


 



Safa Hira

Howard County

August 28, 2020​

Yaretzi Islas proves that it’s never too early to start advocating for your community! She has starred in several videos encouraging members of the Latino community in Baltimore City to complete their Census in both English and Spanish! She reminds us that all children matter and all children count.


 



Young Smith

Howard County

August 28, 2020​

Young Smith is a community advocate who leverages her work with families and neighborhoods to promote Census completion in some of our historically low-counted areas. She is President of the Howard County League of Korean Americans (LOKA-HC), and has successfully executed several on-site Census promotional events at key locations in underrepresented census tracts. With the help of LOKA-HC members, Young has successfully promoted these events to hundreds of Korean residents and helped more than three dozen individuals and families complete their Census forms in person.


 



Alisa Casas

St. Mary's County

September 4, 2020​

When the state grant for Census support came out, Alisa Casas quickly put together a multi-media advertising campaign. She used her experience in communications to divide the funding into media categories that were affordable and provided maximum coverage. The result is that the St. Mary’s Census message has been visible - and audible - throughout the county. Since the grants came out before COVID-19 it was fortuitous that the county budgeted for and implemented with a multi-media campaign rather than in-person gatherings, so media outreach continued without interruption. Alisa arranged for the placement of signs on all St. Mary’s Transit System buses which have constantly operated throughout the county. She also has a Census reminder banner on the county website home page and Census information is broadcast on the county’s Channel 95 cable access channel.


 



Councilwoman Danielle McCray

Baltimore City

September 4, 2020​

Councilwoman Danielle McCray, 2nd Council District in Baltimore City, has been working with small businesses in the Belair Road corridor to increase awareness about the importance of the Census and to help encourage others to complete their form.


 



Ana Mejia

Frederick County

September 4, 2020​

Ana Mejia has gone above and beyond to assist in the development and execution of a plan to communicate the importance of the Census in the Frederick County. Not only does Ana serve on the county’s complete count committee (CCC), but early on, she began to educate and motivate families with English as a second language to participate in the 2020 Census at her monthly “Table Talks.” In March 2020, she invited members of the CCC and representatives from the Census Bureau to address Spanish-speaking families and arranged for interpreters. She organizes frequent food distributions and ensures that all families receive Census information with the food items. During COVID-19, she continued to organize these food distributions, including census information for surrounding neighborhoods. Ana’s advocacy and efforts greatly contributed to Frederick County’s success in exceeding its 2010 self-response rate and ranking third among all Maryland counties.


 







Kevin Michael, Anthony Navarro, and Cathy Page

Calvert County

September 4, 2020​

Kevin Michael, Anthony Navarro, and Cathy Page exemplify why Calvert County Public Schools are ranked among the best in the state and country in response to the 2020 Census in Maryland. They committed to a goal to increase the traditionally low Census response rate of children under five and non-English speakers to 90 percent. Their outreach to every parent to make sure their children are counted included informing them how federal funds for Calvert County’s educational programs are tied to the Census count. Their tireless Census representation in every school, particularly in the low response areas, took many approaches. Even when COVID-19 halted their in-person contacts, they worked with the Child Nutrition Office to provide the Maryland Department of Planning’s school lunch Census flyer in more than 1,000 student meal kits in May. Without delay, they persuaded Calvert County School Superintendent Dr. Daniel D. Curry and every county school principal to send continuous Census alerts to parents through social media and newsletters. For these diligent efforts, the county is proud to call them Census Champions.


 



Mark Sheely

Vector Media

September 4, 2020​

Prior to COVID-19 impacting the travels of Marylanders, an effort was underway to include bus signage on public transportation vehicles. Mark Sheely, Manager of the Mid-Atlantic Region for Vector Media, worked closely with members of the Maryland Department of Planning to identify routes that have the greatest impact on hard-to-reach communities for Census response. Mark assisted the Planning team in ensuring the outreach effort was successful, even during the stay-at-home period when it was harder to have visibility in these areas. Once the state began to reopen, Mark created a plan for continued coverage on those routes, ensuring that Census messaging would reach those in the hardest to count areas. His assistance allowed for countless Marylanders to learn of the importance of the Census.


 



Lilly Castillo

Frederick County and Co-chair, Maryland Complete Count Committee

September 11, 2020​

In addition to being Co-chair for the 2020 Maryland Complete Count Committee, a single mother, and business owner, Lilly Castillo has spent countless hours reaching out to the minority community to educate and inform on the need to complete the 2020 Census. Lilly has done this on radio and television, via social media, and even through virtual meetings due to the pandemic. She has gone above and beyond what could be asked of her, all while juggling her personal and professional life.


 







Jeff Johnson, Janell Edmonds, and Marietta English

Baltimore City

September 11, 2020​

It cannot be emphasized enough how significant a contribution has been made by AFT Maryland in its commitment to the 2020 Census outreach effort. AFT Maryland, an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers, has been encouraging communities in Baltimore City and surrounding counties to be counted. The organization has used its capacity to provide 2020 Census resource material and personal protective equipment to education professionals during the height of COVID-19 pandemic. U.S. Census field operations being suspended from mid-March to early June put a great imposition on the self-response rate momentum in Baltimore City. During that time, Baltimore City Census 2020 held virtual team meetings that were essential to ensure that strategies and outreach to local partners continued. AFT Maryland is one of the few partners that consistently attended these meetings and maintained their efforts through the height of the pandemic. Three faithful members of AFT Maryland – Janell Edmonds, Marietta English, and Jeff Johnson – have played key roles in helping the U.S. Census Partnership team connect with pertinent faith-based institutions in Baltimore, such as New Psalmist Baptist Church which has more than 10,000 members! AFT-Maryland has continued to remain actively engaged in outreach efforts to encourage voter registration and 2020 Census participation among some of Maryland’s most vulnerable populations!


 



Scott Hancock

Maryland Municipal League

September 11, 2020​

Scott Hancock has served as the Maryland Municipal League's (MML) chief executive since December of 1995. Throughout the 2020 Census Campaign, Scott has been a partner to the Maryland Department of Planning and continued to assist in urging municipal leaders to get the message out about the Census. Recently, he has ensured that MML has consistently placed up-to-date information about where Maryland's cities and towns stand with Census self-response and stressed the importance of an accurate count for these communities. He has been vocal on social media about the Census and directed MML staff to share content on their respective platforms. There is no doubt that the success the municipalities have had in Census self-response is in part to Scott's efforts – with 83 municipalities surpassing their 2010 self-response rate.


 



Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins

District 20, Montgomery County

September 11, 2020​

Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins has put in extraordinary work on the outreach efforts for Census 2020 in her district, District 20 in Montgomery County. Delegate Wilkins has championed this process from onset through tremendous advocacy and community partnership building. She is efficient, tactful, and somehow manages to leave everyone smiling at every turn. The delegate's energy and commitment is contagious. She has not only provided resources and information her community to ensure that every resident is counted, but has kept her colleagues well informed and on their toes. Delegate Wilkins also served as an active member of the Maryland Complete Count Committee, where she has advocated for the communities throughout the state and provided critical input and guidance in ensuring that every Marylander counts.


 



Harry Freeman

Anne Arundel County

September 18, 2020​

PAnne Arundel County leaders did not know how lucky they would be when Harry Freeman agreed to chair the county’s complete count committee (CCC). Harry was the perfect person to lead the Anne Arundel Census effort. He is an organizer, recruiter, motivator, reporter, writer, spokesperson, interpreter, advocate, and a volunteer. He brought together and challenged an amazing group of individuals on the CCC. When the committee experienced staff turnover, he picked up the slack and when the pandemic hit, and many CCC members had to divert their attention elsewhere, Harry pushed through with a renewed sense of urgency knowing the COVID response was a real-time example of why an accurate count matters for communities. He took vacation time from his full-time job to distribute flyers at meal sites in hard-to-reach areas, attend meetings and events, and deliver materials. As a single-parent, he’d occasionally have to update the County Executive’s staff while keeping his son connected to school. Harry is a cheerleader, manager, and doer. His substantial volunteer hours and commitment to the Census and Anne Arundel County communities is immeasurable.


 



Dr. Sudha Haley

Calvert County

September 18, 2020​

Dr. Sudha Haley exhibits all of the characteristics of a true leader —organization, encouragement, optimism, integrity, confidence, and honesty. Dr. Haley showed all of these when the Calvert County Complete Count Committee faced the challenges that COVID-19 posed in attaining its goal of 90% participation in the 2020 Census. She attended numerous meetings outside of the actual committee setting and assisted in organizing the hugely successful AARP Maryland Statewide 2020 Census Forum. Her commitment to empowering a diverse community and to achieving social justice is unparalleled. Dr. Haley’s experience in numerous employment roles and personal situations was a blessing to the members of the committee.


 



Walkiria Pool

Prince George's County and Co-chair, Maryland Complete Count Committee

September 18, 2020​

Not only has Walkiria Pool served as a Co-chair of Maryland's Complete Count Committee, she has been a steadfast ambassador for the Census. Walkiria has worked tirelessly in communities, especially those in historically hard-to-count areas and in the Hispanic community, to increase self-response rates. Her efforts expand to thousands who listen to her Facebook Live shows during which she promotes Census efforts and encourages listeners to complete their forms. Her enthusiasm and passion to help others understand the importance of the Census is obvious to all who hear her speak on the topic.


 



Kyrthlyn Rhoda

Prince George's County

September 18, 2020​

Kyrthlyn Rhoda reached out to the Maryland Department of Planning for assistance in her endeavor to increase the self-response rate for the city of Seat Pleasant, Maryland where she is heading up Census efforts and serves as the grants manager. Kyrthlyn is determined to do whatever she can to promote the Census to this Prince George’s County community and get as many city residents as she can to complete their forms. She has worked diligently to get the Planning’s “Did You Know” Census cards printed and distributed to schools and other organizations in the area with the hopes of boosting the city’s numbers before the deadline. She continues to think of creative ways to improve Seat Pleasant’s response rate and is tireless in her outreach and efforts on behalf of the Census.


 



Chief Jesse Swann

Piscataway Conoy Tribe

September 18, 2020​

Chief Jesse Swann has been informing, educating, and encouraging members of the Piscataway Conoy Tribe to complete the Census and to specifically indicate their tribal affiliation. The Piscataway Conoy Tribe sought state recognition for many years and the 2020 Census should now accurately reflect its members. This was an important mission since in past decennial Censuses, tribal members had to identify as other races. Chief Jesse Swann has organized and offered any assistance needed to complete the Census as early as possible. He also had members respond back to him when they completed their forms to help him track tribal members’ response rates. He recognizes the significance and high priority of this year’s Census and the future resources that will be distributed using this data. Chief Swann acted immediately and has done diligent follow up to ensure everyone was counted throughout this great state.


 



Senator Mary Washington

District 43, Baltimore City

September 18, 2020​

Senator Mary Washington, who represents District 43 in Baltimore City, has led the Maryland Senate in ensuring that the 2020 Census is a top priority. Her efforts have helped to ensure that the Get Out the Count efforts have reached all across the state. Senator Washington spearheaded a virtual effort to engage all members of the Maryland Senate and shared resources and information about the Census to support them in getting out the count. She has also led events and coordinated efforts in her home district, to reach historically undercounted communities. Senator Washington has been an active member of the Maryland Complete Count Committee and has lent her expertise and background to provide critical input in Maryland and to ensure a complete and full count.


 



Asian American Center of Frederick

Frederick County

September 25, 2020​

Elizabeth Chung, Esther Slack-Metellus, and the staff and volunteers of the Asian American Center of Frederick (AACF) have been a sustaining force in the effort to educate immigrants living in the county about the Census. In addition to their efforts to include Census literature in many food distributions, they organized several large events and had the Frederick County’s Complete Count Committee participate. These events included a faith breakfast, co-hosted with AARP, that brought together many spiritual leaders; meetings with groups of faith leaders; and an annual community health fair where hundreds of immigrants and other hard-to-reach populations attended. During COVID-19, the AACF created a video in English and five other languages that encouraged the completion of the Census.


 



Elizabeth Bonin

Worcester County

September 25, 2020​

Elizabeth Bonin, a staff writer with Ocean City Today in Worcester County, has worked with the Worcester County Complete Count Committee (CCC) Coordinator in writing Census related articles and publishing response maps to promote the 2020 Census efforts in the county, state, and nation. Elizabeth reported on information from the US Census Bureau, Maryland Department of Planning, and Worcester County CCC to help promote the 2020 Census. During the COVID-19 uncertainty, she has been invaluable to Worcester County residents and visitors to convey information about the ease, safety, and importance of completing their 2020 Census at their primary or vacation homes.


 



Delegate Regina T. Boyce

District 43, Baltimore City

September 25, 2020​

Delegate Regina Boyce has been spending countless hours in District 43’s low-responding neighborhoods helping families complete their 2020 Census forms. Through her canvassing efforts, in partnership with Baltimore City Department of Planning, Delegate Boyce has personally helped 25 families complete their 2020 Census. In addition to helping members of her community be counted, she has also used canvassing to distribute Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), school supplies, and voter information to community members.


 



Sean Burns, Esq.

Baltimore City

September 25, 2020​

Sean Burns, Esq. has been active in getting the residents of Baltimore City counted in the 2020 Census. He has actively canvassed legislative districts 40, 45, and 46. While volunteering his own time to help citizens get counted, he also recruits his fellow Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brothers to join these canvassing events. Sean has been a part of six canvassing efforts in Baltimore City and has helped 15 households get counted in the 2020 Census.


 



Lawanda Dockins-Mills

Wicomico County

September 25, 2020​

Lawanda Dockins-Mills has been an amazing asset to the Salisbury/Wicomico Complete Count Committee (CCC), acting as the official representative of Salisbury University. Lawanda has been instrumental in getting the Census promoted to the off-campus and on-campus students with emails, text messages, social media posts, and more. The CCC appreciates her dedication and enthusiasm and her consistent involvement as it has helped significantly with our off-campus student housing response rates.


 



Maria Herrara

Frederick County

September 25, 2020​

Maria Herrera, Executive Director of the Spanish-Speaking Community of Maryland Inc. (La Comunidad), worked diligently on educating the Hispanic community about the importance, personal responsibility, and community impact of the Census. As a member of the Frederick County Complete Count Committee (CCC) and a Census advocate, she sought out various ways to communicate the importance of the Census. Maria included Census literature in food distributions and coordinated participation by Census Specialists. During COVID-19, Maria organized food distributions that included Census information. She created a video in Spanish that was posted to various social media and included Census information in virtual meetings for the Spanish-speaking community. Her efforts greatly contributed to Frederick County’s success in exceeding its 2010 self-response rate.


 

Elizabeth (Betty) Hewlett

Prince George's County

September 25, 2020​

Elizabeth (Betty) Hewlett has spent decades as a Census Champion, a Census advocate and a Census cheerleader in Prince George’s County and the Washington Metropolitan Region. In 2000, Betty was appointed to lead the first ever Prince George’s County Complete Count Committee (CCC) and is now proudly serving in the position for the second time. A tireless leader, prolific servant of the public interest, and long-time resident of Prince George’s County, Betty loves her community and is actively involved in many sectors, ranging from government, business, and philanthropy to the legal field and the arts. In her role as CCC Chair, she tapped colleagues, friends, neighbors, relatives, and many others to encourage, enlighten, and even cajole their engagement. Starting in 2019, Betty has been on a year-long Census speaking tour, making weekly Census announcements and presentations to residents, local and regional elected and government officials, faith leaders, secondary and higher education leaders, business owners, media representatives, and many more groups in our community. She speaks with passion and high expectations to convince residents of the value and importance of having everyone participate in the Census.


 

 

Paula Chase-Hyman and Lauren Sukal

Maryland Municipal League and Montgomery County

September 25, 2020​

As the municipal league staff liaison for the Maryland Municipal League (MML) Engagement and Outreach standing committee, Paula Chase Hyman coordinated the committee’s multi-year efforts to plan for and implement Census outreach to all 157 municipalities in Maryland. Working with MML’s representative on the Maryland Complete Count Committee, Lauren Sukal from the City of Gaithersburg, this dynamic duo led the MML committee to commit to applying for and shepherding the Maryland Department of Planning’s generous municipal Census grant program that saw awards made to nearly half of Maryland’s municipalities. In addition, marketing efforts, including MML social media platforms, produced significant improvement in municipal self-reporting statistics over 2010 levels.


 



Nadine Ngouabe Dlodlo

Baltimore City

September 25, 2020​

Nadine Ngouabe Dlodlo, President of the Women's Home Preservation Fund in Baltimore City, has been on a crusade to promote the 2020 Census for more than a year - even adding a 2020 Census section to the organization’s website. Most importantly, she spearheaded the effort to hold Census events at markets in the city where people could complete the Census onsight. Nadine worked in partnership with Barbara Bates-Hopkins, Director of the Johns Hopkins’ “Medicine’s Day at the Market” program, who made the outreach at Baltimore's public markets possible. Her efforts have resulted in nearly 300 Census registrations in Baltimore with 101 people completing Census forms for their families in just one day at Lexington Market! Nadine’s actions paved the way for more than $5.2 million in federal funding to the state of Maryland. She has not lost sight of the mission and will hold these events until the Census deadline.


 



Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes

District 37A, Dorchester & Wicomico Counties

September 25, 2020​

Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes has been an amazing asset to the Salisbury/Wicomico Complete Count Committee (CCC) mainly because of her involvement in numerous community events and promotion about the importance of the Census to Wicomico County. Delegate Sample-Hughes has invited the CCC to numerous events to assist citizens with Census completion. her dedication to the citizens of Wicomico County is exemplified by her work in the 2020 Census.


 



Kathy Schey

Frederick County

September 25, 2020​

Kathy Schey assisted in the development and execution of a plan to communicate the importance of the Census to seniors throughout Frederick County. As part of the county’s (CCC) working group, she frequently spoke at senior centers throughout the county and coordinated for flyers to be placed in Meals on Wheels (MOW) and on social media. After the pandemic closed the centers in March, she helped to develop a flyer specifically designed to promote the Census to seniors. Kathy printed thousands of copies of the flyers and, with the help of others, continued to include these in meals delivered to seniors through MOW and other programs. Kathy’s advocacy and efforts greatly contributed to Frederick County’s success in exceeding its 2010 self-response rate.


 



Lori Tyer-Ellis

St. Mary's County

September 25, 2020​

Lori Tyer-Ellis joined the St. Mary’s County Community Services team in March, just as the pandemic hit Maryland. That did not deter her from responding to the Census initiative. Lori shared Census messaging through program receipts, email marketing messages, and social media posts to thousands of St. Mary’s County residents. She worked tirelessly in coordinating efforts between the county office of Land Use and Growth Management and the management of Recreation and Parks by reaching customers in various agencies including recreation, golf, museums, and parks. Census flyers and giveaways were distributed to children enrolled in athletic and recreational camps, at public beaches, and at special events. Lori worked with the NAACP president in assuring information was provided to the local chapter.


 



Jenny Plummer-Welker, AICP

Calvert County

September 25, 2020​

Jenny Plummer-Welker is a treasured leader of the Calvert County Complete Count Committee. As the committee’s lead coordinator, she provides extraordinary initiative and tireless interactions and integration with members, Calvert County Commissioners, and every county organization, especially in the hard-to-count communities. Jenny continuously coordinated significant and timely information to advance the self-response rate - to the highest in the Southern Maryland region. Through her agile ability and creativity, she connected CCC members with county businesses for meaningful outreach during the pandemic. Her exceptional ingenuity and support for the virtual statewide AARP Census 2020 Forum with national and state lawmakers and leaders, expanded our gain of valuable census responses. We applaud Jenny’s unwavering commitment to help every Calvert County resident to be counted.


 

 

Michael Bellis and Elizabeth Farar

Charles County

October 2, 2020​

Michael Bellis and Elizabeth Farar are valuable members of the Charles County Census 2020 Complete Count Committee. They began promoting the Census from day one, regularly including Census recruiting staff and promotional materials at their community service events. They also included a major Census outreach presence at the big August 8 community resources event at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf. Census outreach workers handed out promotional items and encouraged the participants to respond to the Census. Census signs were placed around the periphery of the event site for all to see. Mike even participated in a Facebook Live Census promotion at the event. In the end, Census workers reached over 200 households at this event. Mike and Elizabeth are truly dedicated to promoting the Census in all they do!


 



Carroll County Circle of Caring Homelessness Board

Carroll County

October 2, 2020​

The Circle of Caring/Homelessness Board - Outreach Committee, a board appointed by the Carroll County Commissioners, meets on a regular basis to discuss issues with the homeless population and create actions. Several agencies actively participated in the Census homeless count, including the Human Services Programs (HSP) of Carroll County, Carroll County Government, Carroll County Health Department, and the Carroll County Public Schools. To prepare for the 2020 homeless count, HSP ran a list of all the homeless participants served. Carroll County Public Schools reached out to counselors to get a list of homeless students. The veterans’ coordinator reached out to vets who live in hotels. The Health Department conducted Census outreach at the soup kitchens. Jenny Graybill, acting chair of the committee from HSP, coordinated with the US Census enumerators and recruited committee members and agency staff on September 23 to take the enumerators to the homeless encampments. This effort is a great representation on how agencies and government in Carroll County work together. The attached photo was taken on September 23 of the agency staff and enumerators as they gathered to count the homeless.


 



Lynn Davis

Carroll County

October 2, 2020​

Lynn Davis, Executive Director of the Youth Services Bureau, serves on the Carroll County Complete Count Committee. She is the chair of the non-profit and community work group. Lynn has been very involved and proactive in promoting the Census. She reached out to more than 130 non-profits in the county to engage them in outreach. She personally delivered banners and rack cards and coordinated outreach to the faith community. Once COVID-19 hit, Lynn continued to come up with ways to do outreach. She coordinated with the YMCA to put up a street banner. Most recently, she coordinated with the Boys and Girls Club to host an ice-cream social during parent pick up, where 13 people filled out their Census.


 



Curtis Eaddy III

Baltimore City

October 2, 2020​

Curtis Eaddy III is the Events and Marketing Manager for the Southwest Partnership in Baltimore City, which serves the residents of seven neighborhoods - Barre Circle, Franklin Square, Hollins Roundhouse, Mount Clare, Pigtown, Poppleton, and Union Square. The Southwest Partnership has been actively promoting the 2020 Census on its website. On September 27, 2020, Curtis and his team arranged a great community event, the “Come to Your Census” celebration in Franklin Square Park. This event was designed to encourage residents to complete their 2020 Census. Curtis and his many team members worked hard to bring the community together on a gorgeous Sunday afternoon for Census participation with fellowship, live music, food, kids’ games, and even a marching band! Curtis exemplifies leadership to improve his community and he knows that every person counted results in funding to help achieve that goal. Thank you, Curtis!


 



Kristin Fleckenstein

Maryland Department of Planning

October 2, 2020​

Kristin Fleckenstein has been a tireless advocate for counting everyone in Maryland for the 2020 Census. Joining the Maryland Department of Planning in February 2020 as the Director of Public Affairs, she brought years of public relations and communications experience to the table as everyone navigated the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Kristin seamlessly transitioned into Planning just as the 2020 Census count was set to begin. In her role with Planning, Kristin coordinates all facets of Maryland’s Census efforts, including responding to Census-related media inquiries, providing direction to the Maryland Complete Count Committee, supporting local complete count committees, and generally promoting strategic messaging to all Census stakeholders. Day after day, Kristin goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure a full and accurate count in 2020, never ceasing to find ways to streamline operations. Thank you Kristin, for your unwavering dedication to this critical project that will have a lasting impact for all of Maryland.


 



Andrew Gray

Carroll County

October 2, 2020​

Andrew Gray works in the Planning Department of the City of Westminster. He represents the city on the Carroll County Complete Count Committee (CCC) as the chair of the municipalities work group. This group was ahead of the county creating a municipalities flier to send out to constituents in city newsletters and bills. Andrew has been a proactive member of our CCC and work group leader. He has continually sent out Census information in all social media, the city newsletter, and events. He has come up with ideas and helped implement them. Most recently, the city of Westminster created and hung a banner over Main Street. Andrew has been a true leader.


 



Secretary Rob McCord

Maryland Department of Planning

October 2, 2020​

As the Secretary of Planning, the agency responsible for the outreach for the 2020 Census, Secretary Rob McCord has been the force behind the planning, execution, and implementation of all things related to the 2020 Census in Maryland. With an unwavering spirit and enthusiasm, Secretary McCord literally attended events and spoke on behalf of the 2020 Census in every corner of the state for nearly two years to promote and share messaging about the importance of the 2020 Census. "While the Census is about $1.5 trillion dollars in federal spending, including $16 billion in Maryland, the Census is really about us as Marylanders. It is about who we are as a state and how many people reside in each community. We count people, not just citizens, and this is our one chance for the next 10 years to paint an accurate portrait of Maryland and each of our communities," said Secretary McCord. Secretary McCord understands that every single response to the Census directly impacts the services our communities receive - funding for schools, hospitals, and roads and other emergency and essential services like vaccines and Medicare. His vision and drive helped more than 98 percent of all Marylanders be counted in the 2020 Census.


 



Laura Morton

Carroll County

October 2, 2020​

Laura Morton is an attorney in Westminster. She does pro bono work for the Latino community and is interested in integrating the community. Laura was a volunteer for the Census, reaching out to see what she could do to promote the Census to the Latino community. She took posters and Spanish rack cards to Latino businesses and volunteered at several events. Laura coordinated an ice-cream social event as part of outreach to the Latino community. She recruited volunteers, including local high school students and members of the Catholic Church. Fliers were distributed to the Latino community and distributed during the Spanish mass at St. John’s Catholic Church. Laura has been a strong advocate for making sure the Latino community is represented in the Census.


 



Kelly Phipps

Charles County

October 2, 2020​

Kelly Phipps went above and beyond to include a regular Census outreach presence as manager at the La Plata Farmers Market. She worked with county and Census staff to accommodate Census outreach workers at several market days. Census workers made contact with hundreds of market patrons as a result. Kelly went a step further by promoting the Census on the market’s Facebook page. Kelly embodies the true community spirit in her dedication in promoting the importance of the Census!


 



Ruth E. Davis-Rogers

Calvert County

October 2, 2020​

Ruth E. Davis-Rogers is an integral and vital influence on the success of the Calvert County Complete Count Committee’s (CCC) outreach. She is an outstanding management team member, always providing thoughtful, professional insights during our outreach deliberations. Ruth’s valuable involvement has energized our team to reach higher horizons leading to nearly 75 percent self-response in the 2020 Census. She strengthened our collaboration with coalition partners and the government for the best outcomes. Most recently, she managed the coordination of our team leaders to brief our ultimate stakeholders, Calvert County Board of Commissioners. Her diligence and motivation contributed to a highly successful interaction. Ruth exemplifies the best in our CCC management team, and we can always count on her significant energy.


 



Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford

State of Maryland

October 2, 2020​

Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford has been a tireless champion on behalf of Marylanders for the 2020 Census. He attended the Census kick-off rally at the State House, hosted a 90-second Census PSA, provided critical Census messaging as part of his popular Mundane but Meaningful series, and supported the Hogan-Rutherford Administration with critical messaging about the importance of the 2020 Census. He has consistently talked about how the 2020 Census would provide a snapshot of Maryland for the next ten years and how Census data will be used for Congressional representation, critical federal funds, and drawing state and congressional districts. Thank you, Lt. Governor Rutherford, for your leadership during the 2020 Census.


 



Chris Swam

Carroll County

October 2, 2020​

Chris Swam is a member of the Carroll County Complete Count Committee. He is the Digital Media Manager for Carroll County Government. Chris created and maintains the Carroll County Census website as well as all the other social media. He also creates the messages on the county’s various electronic signs. Chris created five videos with county leaders talking about the importance of the 2020 Census. Once COVID-19 hit, Chris was critical to the efforts of communicating to the county’s citizens as he continued to push out Census messages. He has been an important part of our team, especially during COVID-19.


 



Shelly Tucker

Charles County

October 2, 2020​

Shelly Tucker is a valuable member of the Charles County Census 2020 Complete Count Committee. She has worked tirelessly to promote Census response for a highly undercounted demographic, children under five. She has included Census promotional materials (including those cute baby beanies!) in several distributions of diaper bundles to parents in Charles County. She has worked to expand her organization’s Census outreach to serve areas of the county that have experienced low response. She even created and shared her own videos promoting the Census. Shelly exemplifies what it means to be a Census Champion!


 



Daniel Jones

U.S. Census Bureau

October 9, 2020​

Daniel Jones, Partnership Specialist with the U.S Census Bureau, supported complete count efforts in several Maryland counties that have historically under-counted communities. He has appeared as a guest on social media live panels to discuss the importance of the Census in both English and Spanish. Daniel has made himself available whenever local complete count committees (CCC) call for assistance to answer questions from residents about completing their Census. He has participated in food distribution events sponsored by a number of nonprofit organizations throughout Maryland to circulate information about the Census to the families that attended. Daniel has consistently attended local CCC meetings to ensure that community leaders have been informed of the U.S. Census Bureau’s operations. Daniel’s efforts in supporting local leaders on the front lines has been invaluable. He has joined these leaders, directly communicating with community members at virtual and in-person events. While these are his job responsibilities, Daniel has taken his commitment to this role to the next level by participating in countless weekly and monthly meetings and to get all of Maryland counted!


 



Patrick J. Lally

Governor's Coordinating Offices

October 9, 2020​

Patrick J. Lally, Senior Executive Director for the Governor’s Coordinating Offices, has spearheaded, and consistently motivates, the 150 employees from the Coordinating Offices to support and amplify all Census communications. Patrick motivates all senior leadership to communicate across appropriate channels regarding the Census. In addition, he ensured a consistent drumbeat to share this messaging both with staff and across office external communication channels. These efforts included collaborating with Planning Secretary Rob McCord and the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Director Kelby Brick to produce a video that helped explain the process to fill out the Census for 1.2 million deaf and hard of hearing Marylanders. Patrick detailed Lorena Rivera from the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives to the Maryland Department of Planning to temporarily direct the daily Census effort. Patrick's ability to create meaningful collaboration, along with his strategic thinking and strong desire to be part of the solution, has earned him the title Mr. Census at the Governor's Coordinating Offices.


 



Montgomery College Complete Count Committee

Montgomery County

October 9, 2020​

Montgomery College’s (MC) Office of Community Engagement and Student Life’s Service-Learning Program partnered to create the Montgomery College Complete Count Committee. Led by Karla Silvestre and Nik Sushka, the committee worked tirelessly to promote participation in the Census to members of the college community and Montgomery County residents as a whole. For example, the committee leveraged a $15,000 grant from the Greater Washington Community Foundation and additional Montgomery College Foundation funds to launch an MC Counts Student Ambassador program. The program supported 20 student employees who hosted 67 census participation events last spring, reaching 4,466 people. The committee, working with students, created innovative programming and events that promoted the Census even during the outbreak of the pandemic. Programs included in-person outreach and virtual activities, such as a Virtual Census Festival. Students also participated in digital challenges like “Each One Reach Ten” where they posted messages to neighborhood listservs and presented to the Student Senates and Student Councils, classes, faith groups, and more. The service-learning program also hosted a winter 2020 faculty workshop to help faculty integrate Census 2020 projects into their courses. Post-event surveys showed that 65 percent of students reported that the committee’s efforts had significant impact (45 percent) or some impact (20 percent) on their successful completion of the 2020 Census. The remaining students said they had already completed or planned to complete the Census. This fall, Student Life continued to coordinate presentations to virtual classes and hosted a workshop in September with the President’s Advisory Committee for Equity and Inclusion entitled “The 2020 Census Final Countdown: 14 Things YOU Can Do to Make Sure Everyone Counts.

Montgomery College Complete Count Committee members include: Ermias Adebabay, Sharon Bland, Gloria Bonilla, Phillip Bonner, Keith Foster, Carolina Galeano, Carlos Iglesias, Grace Karambiri, Kim Kelley, Stephanie Krasnoff, Margaret Latimer, Kim McGettigan, Katie Nguyen, Melissa Pace, George Payne, Jeanette Rojas, Yanira Rodriguez, Emily Schmidt, Karla Silvestre, Brad Stewart, Hannah Stocks, Nik Sushka, Hamrawit Tefsa, Mintesnot (Minte) Weldemariam, and Emma Wilson.


 



Don Rowe

Carroll County

October 9, 2020​

Don Rowe, Executive Director of the Arc of Carroll County, has been a true leader for the Carroll County Census effort. As Chair of the Carroll Count Committee, Don reached out to all committee members for involvement. He has been the face and voice of the U.S. Census count in Carroll County. The local paper, the Carroll County Times, has interviewed him for several articles over the course of the Census effort and he has personally written and submitted columns to the paper. Don testified before the Carroll County Commissioners on several occasions. He appeared on Carroll Helping Carroll, a local television program, to answer questions about the Census. Don is a veteran of the Census having served on the Carroll Count Committee during the 2010 Census.


 



Sandra Shephard

Prince George's County

October 9, 2020​

Sandra Shephard serves the youth in Prince George’s County in multiple capacities. As the managing Director of the Latin American Youth Center, Sandra coordinated food distributions and workforce development programs that incorporated Census materials and information. She was featured as a panelist on the “Count Me In” series segment hosted by the University of Maryland’s Office of Community Engagement where she conveyed how a complete Census count positively impacts younger generations. In her role as a member of the Prince George’s County Board of Education, she oversaw a Census video contest in which K-12 students submitted brief, creative videos designed to inform and excite peers about the 2020 Census. For many years, Sandra has been at the forefront of supporting Prince George’s County communities and doing everything in her power to secure vital resources.


 



Malcolm Furgol

Frederick County

October 16, 2020​

Malcolm Furgol is the Director of Community Impact for the United Way of Frederick County. His leadership was a tremendous asset to the Census outreach efforts in Frederick County. Malcolm’s personal and business connections with those living in hard-to-reach areas and those who serve them was instrumental in Frederick County exceeding its 2010 Census self-response. Malcolm served on the Frederick County Complete Count Committee and spoke to many community organizations to garner their support. He also sought support from county nonprofits that resulted in funding to support a tailored marketing effort. His dedication and professionalism were vital to Frederick County’s Census success.


 



Julius Maina

U.S. Census Bureau

October 16, 2020​

As a Partnership Coordinator with the U.S. Census Bureau, Julius Maina's area of coverage include Maryland and neighboring states in the bureau’s Philadelphia Region. In this role, he worked diligently to establish strategic partnerships with organizations that served as the trusted voices in their communities, developed strategies to increase Census participation in traditionally hard to count areas, and championed the recruitment and selection of local partnership specialists that had substantial ties in their communities. Thanks to the great efforts of the community partners, complete count committees, and the members of Julius’ team, Maryland is ranked 9th in the nation in self-response rates (a first in the state’s history)! Thanks to the great work of the county complete count committees working in conjunction with the Census Bureau team, 21 of the state’s 24 counties exceeded their 2010 self-response rates. Julius is a proud resident of Maryland and is a graduate of University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Bowie State University, and University of Baltimore School of Law.


 



Katina Rojas Nazario-Joy

Prince George's County

October 16, 2020​

Katina Rojas Nazario-Joy co-chairs the International/Immigrant Complete County Committee in Prince George's County. In this capacity she ensured that these communities have access to Census information and understand the importance of the Census privacy safeguards. Prior to the pandemic, Katina organized community meetings and, during the COVID restrictions, ensured that Census information was available to all participants at the meal distributions she coordinated. She invited Census Bureau representatives to attend these events to provide an easy way for people to get assistance and answers on how to successfully complete their forms. Katrina’s outreach efforts paid off as self-reporting in Prince George's County surpassed the 2010 self-response.


 



Rick Weldon

Frederick County

October 16, 2020​

Rick Weldon, CEO and President of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, has been a staunch supporter of Frederick County’s Census outreach as a member of the county’s complete count committee. His participation in the outreach and communication to chamber members as well as the entire county population was integral to the success in Frederick County. Not only did Rick communicate with local businesses he also volunteered to teach business students from a local high school about the importance of the Census. He was a key participant in a Maryland Business Roundtable sponsored by the NAACP and the U.S. Census Bureau that discussed the impact and benefits of the Census. Rick’s knowledge and efforts helped Frederick County to surpass its 2010 self-response rate.


 



Destiny Allen

St. Mary's County

October 23, 2020​

Destiny Allen, Economic Development Specialist at the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development, served as the Census Team Lead Assistant for the county’s complete county committee since its formation. She was in constant contact with the small business community, farmer’s markets, and the St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce about the 2020 Census. Destiny assisted in creating oversized posters to place in county businesses and contacted businesses in some of the lowest response areas of St. Mary’s County with Census messaging. When pandemic restrictions began, she did not slow down. She continued her outreach through social media and email, and when the county restrictions lessened, she arranged to have flyers and handouts delivered to the farmer’s markets. Her work continued in her department’s small business newsletters and social media and we thank Destiny for her commitment to the 2020 Census.


 



Nestor Alvarenga

NBC 4/Telemundo 44

October 23, 2020​

Nestor Alvarenga oversees and executes the community affairs strategies of NBC4 and Telemundo 44, Washington, DC, as its Community Manager. Due to COVID-19, digital communication has never been more important. Thanks to partners like Nestor, the Census message never missed a beat. He was active in discussing and supporting strategic communication plans with the Prince George’s County Complete Count Committee and its sub-committees. He served as moderator of a bilingual “Count Me In” social media broadcast focused on counting Spanish-speaking communities. He made his presence felt in Prince George’s communities by being a participant in a Census Caravan event. Nestor made attaining a complete count a priority demonstrated by his efforts to include phone banks for the Census and sharing Census messages in more than one language. Nestor Alvarenga and NBC4/Telemundo 44 colleagues made a real difference in the 2020 Census.


 





 

Jordan Baucum Colbert and Thomas Johnson

Prince George’s County

October 23, 2020​

Jordan Baucum Colbert and Thomas F. Johnson II have been out front and behind the scenes in Prince George’s County’s 2020 Census outreach efforts. They were part of the Prince George’s County Complete Count Committee’s (CCC) “Proud to be Counted” Census Coordination and Outreach Team. The combination of their energy, enthusiasm, innovation, and excellent communication skills in promoting the Census went over and above the committee’s expectations. They worked in partnership for the past eighteen months to ensure Prince George’s County would get each resident counted – while representing their respective county agencies. Jordan and Thomas coordinated more than 500 Census events including information and promotional outreach events, speaking engagements, social media postings, training sessions, press briefings, and committee meetings. Jordan and Thomas’ constant availability and accessibility as Census resources and their dedicated commitment to the Proud to be Counted outreach team resulted in a successful engagement of our residents and a milestone self-response rate in Prince George’s County. They brought their engaging personalities and sincere dedication to the community, along with a vast network of individuals and partners, to collectively reach thousands of Prince George’s County households.


 





 

Janet Bellizzi and Stacy Milor

Calvert County

October 23, 2020​

As soon as the U.S. Census Bureau gave the Calvert County Complete Count Committee direction, Co-vice Chairs Janet Bellizzi and Stacy Milor immediately targeted undercounted communities as the focus of its Census outreach. They provided Census messaging at voter registration events encouraging residents to respond to the 2020 Census. Their networking and outreach to the undercounted communities – to the far reaches of Solomons Island – were critical to the success in Calvert County. They ventured to businesses, schools, and nonprofits to deliver Census posters, flyers, ads, and other outreach papers and pamphlets. Once the pandemic restricted in-person contact, they personally placed Census materials in meal packets delivered to seniors and school children. When pandemic restrictions began to ease, they scheduled Census events to help residents complete their Census forms and answer questions. Janet and Stacy increased the visibility of Census 2020 in the county and the municipalities of North Beach and Chesapeake Beach beyond expectations.


 



Melissa Cassimore

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

Melissa Cassimore assisted the Wicomico County Planning, Zoning, and Community Development team with their setup for “Census Roadshow” activities by stuffing bags with giveaways, keeping the team organized with outreach events, and volunteering many nights and weekends with the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee to ensure everyone in the county was counted. Melissa was a great asset to the team, and we thank her for her dedication to county residents.


 



Circle of Leaders

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

The Circle of Leaders (COL) is a 501 C-3 community-based organization. The organization’s strategic plan directed its focus to the matter of the 2020 Census as a critical issue of importance to the welfare of the community. The COL members engaged with the Wicomico County’s ‘Complete Count Committee” and performed in vital positions and roles throughout the county's 2020 Census Campaign.


 



City of Salisbury Council

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

The City of Salisbury Council was especially supportive of the efforts put forth by the Salisbury-Wicomico County Complete Count Committee. Several members of the council volunteered and sponsored community outreach events. The members also appeared in social media videos and shared the message of the Census and its importance on their personal social media pages.


 



Bob Culver, In Memorium

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

Even though Bob Culver passed away after a battle with liver cancer in July 2020, he was heavily involved and dedicated to ensuring all the citizens of his beloved Wicomico County were counted from the start of the Census campaign in 2019. The Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee honor his memory and legacy by nominating him posthumously as a Maryland Census Champion for his dedication to the Census in Wicomico County.


 



Austin Davis

Baltimore City

October 23, 2020​

As the 2020 Census Project Manager for the City of Baltimore, Department of Planning, Austin Davis worked tirelessly to encourage Baltimoreans to complete their Census. As the leader of the city's Complete Count Committee, he gathered team members often to discuss ways of adapting their overarching plans to reach city residents after COVID-19 shutdowns and restrictions. Austin engaged multiple organizations to assist with barriers to Census completion such as WiFi capacity, building access and even homelessness. His commitment and perseverance led to higher counts for the city and more federal funding for the state of Maryland.


 



Mayor Jacob Day

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

Even though Mayor Jacob “Jake” Day was deployed for active military service in early 2020, he was heavily involved in the Wicomico County Census campaign. Mayor Day provided his staff and resources as mayor to make sure the city of Salisbury and Wicomico County as a whole were counted. The Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee thank Mayor Day for his military service and appreciate his passion and dedication to the city and county.


 



Rick Dwyer

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

Rick Dwyer, Town Commissioner President for the Town of Hebron, served on the Census team for Wicomico County’s 2000 Census outreach campaign and assisted the Wicomico County Complete Count Committee and the county’s Planning, Zoning, and Community Development team with their setup for “Census Roadshow” activities to spread the word in the community. Rick assisted with making sure citizens of Hebron completed their Census.


 



Keith Hall

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

Keith Hall served on the Census team for Wicomico County in 2010 and again assisted the Wicomico County Planning, Zoning, and Community Development team with their setup for 2020 “Census Roadshow” activities. Keith, Executive Director for the Salisbury/Wicomico Metropolitan Planning organization, emphasized the importance of Census completion at several of the meetings.


 



Terrence Jennings

Baltimore City

October 23, 2020​

Terrence Jennings is an Operational Officer for the City of Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Neighborhoods and Economic Development. He served as the chair of the city’s CCC Business and Institutions Census Subcommittee administered by the city’s Department of Planning. Throughout the Census, Terrence played a strong role in multiple partnership efforts for the 2020 Census. Terrence stepped up to assist in matters involving Wi-Fi access for Baltimoreans as well as access to housing units to which Census enumerators were unable to visit. His assistance paved the way for many Baltimore City residents to be counted who otherwise might not have been able to complete the Census.


 



LaToya Johnson

Kent County

October 23, 2020​

LaToya Johnson of Saving Hope, LLC in Chestertown was originally hired by Kent County in February to manage a group of Census Ambassadors and organize events in the county’s hard-to-count areas. When COVID-19 forced the cancellation of in-person events, LaToya quickly pivoted to organizing volunteers to work at lunch distribution sites and setting up social media events. She is one of the reasons Kent County surpassed its self-response rate from 2010. LaToya’s knowledge of the community and ability to make connections was instrumental in our Census 2020 efforts.


 



Holly Kamm Wahl

Calvert County

October 23, 2020​

Holly Kamm Wahl’s resolute attitude and commitment to encourage every resident to take the Census made her a truly special asset to the Calvert County Complete Count Committee. Her bold and creative vision along with her resourceful leadership, broadened the perspective of the committee. She generated Census messages in the town of Chesapeake Beach’s weekly email newsletters to residents, included a hyperlink to the Census website and in town correspondence, and ensured coordination of the town’s activities with the towns of North Beach’s and Chesapeake Beach’s elected officials. Holly coordinated with Census Partnership Specialists, the Maryland Department of Planning, and Calvert County Government staff, and with Census 2020 video producers, to provide indispensable outreach. Holly helped coordinate the friendly competition between the mayors of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach to reach higher self-response rates and provided Census updates to the mayor, council, and residents at town council meetings. Using her age-friendly communities concept, Holly coordinated a special three-day Census promotion at the Chesapeake Beach Water Park, where she gifted residents who showed proof of completing their Census questionnaire with a bag of beach treats.


 



Sergio Polanco

Anne Arundel County

October 23, 2020​

Sergio Polanco has been the face of Anne Arundel County’s 2020 Census outreach effort, particularly to the multi-cultural populations of the county. Sergio’s actions were linked to expanding Census awareness, education, and participation across the state of Maryland. Sergio was a steady foundation of ideas, support, hands-on work, and boots-on-the-ground outreach to assure his commitment for a better community, a better Maryland, and a better United States to his fellow county residents. From day one, his passion to make sure everyone in Anne Arundel County is counted never diminished. His self-starter attitude brought together community leaders to discuss the importance of the Census and the necessity to motivate a complete count when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As the county required Sergio to wear multiple hats to make sure the non-English speaking residents were informed during the pandemic, he continued his relentless approach to make everyone count. Anne Arundel County is a better place to live knowing that Sergio Polanco is on the team. His effort reflects the best of our county and a mission of community service all should strive for.


 



Dr. Jennifer Purcell

Anne Arundel County

October 23, 2020​

Dr. Jennifer Purcell, Director of Special Projects in the Anne Arundel County Executive’s office, has been among the most valuable people working on behalf of the residents of Anne Arundel County for the 2020 Census. As Director of Special Projects, her days are constantly loaded with creating and improving on opportunities to benefit the people who call Anne Arundel County home. When Dr. Purcell became a full-time leader of the county’s Census 2020 efforts, it was evident that outreach and networking resources were critical to increase county participation. Her efforts, organizational skills, and knowledge of county operations were instrumental in achieving the Anne Arundel County Complete Count Committee’s (CCC) milestones and surpassing the Census 2010 self-response rate. The attention to detail that Dr. Purcell displayed made the committee confident that everything submitted was done with the highest integrity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her ability to coordinate between inter- and intra-agency actions for Census related activity obtained results that led the CCC to leverage its efforts to success. The CCC Chair said, “Having Jennifer on our CCC has not only been a wonderful learning experience, but a personal privilege knowing the level of commitment she gives our residents every day. Her effort reflects the best of our county.”


 



Tiffany Sutherland

Calvert County

October 23, 2020​

Tiffany Sutherland, Reference Supervisor with the Prince Frederick Branch of the Calvert County Public Library, brought enthusiastic outreach initiatives to the Calvert County Complete Count Committee. Her ideas were multi-pronged and extensive. Tiffany encouraged the Calvert County Library staff to send email messages solely focused on the 2020 Census. In December 2019, her message was to “Get a job with Census 2020;” then in spring and summer 2020, the message was “Calvert Library Urges You to be COUNTED!” In addition, she had Census messages included in the library’s monthly e-newsletters to more than 27,000 library patrons. While the main library and the branches were closed to patrons, she helped staff insert Census flyers for adults and boxes of Maryland 2020 Census crayons for children in curbside pick-up bags. Also, patrons were able to take Census logo items when they came for their book pick-up bags. Tiffany and staff had Census messaging placed on the library’s signboard on Calvert County’s major highway. Tiffany and the library staff vigorously continued to spread the Census message until the counting stopped..


 



Reverend Lewis Watson

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

The Watchmen with One Voice Ministerial Alliance is a nondenominational organization of pastors, faith leaders, and ecumenical, representing churches on the lower Eastern Shore. The goal of the organization is to give voice to the voiceless and to be an advocate for social justice. As a part of their strategic 2019-2020 goals, the group became Census 2020 ambassadors for the initial groundwork of the development of Census 2020 activities among the faith-based organizations. The Salisbury-Wicomico County Complete Count Committee would like to thank the Watchmen for their assistance during the Census 2020 Campaign. Reverend Dr. Lewis N. Watson serves as president and pastor of First Baptist of Salisbury.


 



Wicomico County Council

Wicomico County

October 23, 2020​

The Wicomico County Council was especially supportive of the efforts put forth by the Salisbury-Wicomico County Complete Count Committee and many members of the council volunteered with our community events by appearing in social media videos. Members shared the message of the Census and its importance on their personal social media pages.


 



Councilmember Celina Benitez

Prince George's County

October 30, 2020​

Councilmember Celina Benitez is a Census Champion as a result of her leadership with the Mount Rainier Census Count Committee. Through her enthusiastic efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, the city had great self-response results in the Census 2020. The city’s Census committee assembled a bilingual door knocking campaign that targeted multi-complex apartments and homes. The committee knocked on more than 3,000 doors. The Mount Rainier Census Count Committee also held a Virtual Dance Party that targeted millennials, generation Z, and college students to complete their Census. Councilmember Benitez also worked to establish food distribution where Census information was handed out to residents and seniors of Mount Rainier. Councilmember Benitez brought together a diverse team that got the job done!!


 



Henry Bogdan

Nonprofit Maryland

October 30, 2020​

Henry Bogdan, Public Policy Director of Nonprofit Maryland, provided opportunities for Planning to access the 1,200-strong membership of the organization at a time when COVID-19 prevented the department from engaging in direct personal outreach. Through Henry’s efforts, the department was able to provide outreach through virtual meetings. In addition, Henry assisted other nonprofits in his membership by inserting bilingual Census information in food pantry baskets at distribution sites across Maryland.


 



Charles County Media Services Staff

Charles County

October 30, 2020​

The Charles County media staff developed and implemented a comprehensive marketing and promotion strategy in collaboration with Charles County Complete Count Committee members and other local partners. They continuously sought out new ways to reach the public and seamlessly pivoted to new methods of promotion after the pandemic hit. Media staff conducted weekly monitoring of response rates in different areas of the county to better target outreach efforts and developed a #CensusChallenge hashtag campaign to encourage a sense of competition among the lower responding areas. They partnered with various community organizations including the United Way of Charles County and the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Baseball Club to promote the Census via Facebook Live. They recorded a video PSA featuring Charles County Commissioners that ran on county government TV throughout the Census response period. Media staff coordinated local radio on-air feature interviews and podcasts with Census Bureau partners and implemented local print, and online advertising campaigns via radio, newspaper, and the local movie theater. They also featured the Census in county government e-newsletters and press releases. Finally, they helped coordinate Census outreach at several community events. Many thanks to Jennifer Harris, Tina Kozloski, Renesha Miles, Brent Huber*, Donna Fuqua*, Erin Pomrenke*, and the entire media staff for their extraordinary dedication in making sure all Charles County residents were counted!

* Not pictured


 



Michele Ennis

Wicomico County

October 30, 2020​

Amazing, selfless, caring, and, above all, dedicated to those in need – all words used to describe Michele Ennis. As the head of Tri-Community Mediation in Salisbury, Michele was the organizer for the Vulnerable Population task force that spearheaded more than 25 food giveaway and community organizing events to help the most vulnerable in Wicomico County. Michele is truly a superwoman who encouraged the Salisbury-Wicomico Complete Count Committee to join the events and spread the importance of the Census.


 



Debra Keller-Greene

Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce

October 30, 2020​

Debra Keller Greene, Keller Professional Services and the Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce, were early and enthusiastic advocates for the Census effort in the black community in Baltimore City. As Chair of the Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce, she used the chamber as a platform to provide black business owners with information on the value of full Census participation. Debra used social media to keep minority businesses up to date on the changing nature of Census activities throughout the COVID-19 crisis.


 



Pastor Cleveland Mason

Maryland United Baptist Convention

October 30, 2020​

Pastor Cleveland Mason, President of the Maryland United Baptist Convention, was a consistent and tireless advocate for Census education and activism in the Baptist community. When COVID-19 hit, Pastor Mason engaged in outreach to churches through all forms of social media. In addition, the pastor provided encouragement and vital information to other pastors to motivate their congregation to fill out the 2020 Census.


 



Claudia Wilson Randall

Community Development Network of Maryland

October 30, 2020​

Claudia Wilson Randall, Associate Director of the Community Development Network of Maryland, was instrumental in promoting the Census message to the Community Development Network. In addition to hosting Planning Secretary Rob McCord and Associate Director Randall Nixon at their annual legislative breakfast, Claudia provided social media messaging and ongoing updates to member stakeholders. She sought opportunities for Planning to speak at virtual events and connected the work of her organization to the funding that accurate Census enumeration provides for community development in Maryland.


 



Christine Ross

Maryland Chamber of Commerce

October 30, 2020​

Christine Ross, President and CEO of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, provided invaluable access to the 4,500 businesses who belong to the chamber. Through her leadership, Planning was able to provide consistent and up-to-date messaging about the Census to the chamber’s stakeholders.


 



Pam Ruff

Maryland Economic Development Association

October 30, 2020​

Pam Ruff, Executive Director of Maryland Economic Development Association worked tirelessly to promote the importance of the Census to economic development directors in every jurisdiction in Maryland. In addition to providing a social media platform for Census messaging, Pam shared contacts with Planning so it could provide up-to-date information to her stakeholders.


 



Salisbury Wicomico Faith-Based Organization Sub-committee

Wicomico County

October 30, 2020​

The Faith-Based Organization Sub-committee, including Jocelyn Abbott, Mary Ashanti, Dionne Church, Kelsie Mattox, and Sandra Martin, was instrumental in supporting the Salisbury-Wicomico County Complete Count Committee on 2020 Census efforts. The members of this sub-committee supported the organizing of a successful faith community breakfast and dinner, where faith leaders throughout the county came together and learned about the Census and the impact that a complete count has in their community. The sub-committee supported these faith leaders in implementing outreach actions within their communities, helping to drive awareness and completion of the Census.


 



Samuel Shoge

Kent County Chamber of Commerce

October 30, 2020​

Samuel Shoge, Executive Director, provided access to the Kent County Chamber of Commerce membership during the COVID-19 crisis, hosting several virtual meetings. In addition, he worked as an advocate in the Kent County community on Census outreach, particularly in the business community.


 



Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Baseball Club

Charles County

October 30, 2020​

The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Baseball Club was an amazing supporter of Charles County’s Census outreach efforts. The Blue Crabs included Mobile Questionnaire Assistance Centers (MQAs) at several events at Regency Furniture Stadium, including a Labor Day fireworks show and a drive-in movie night. At the fireworks event, the Census outreach team reached more than 300 people! In addition, the Blue Crabs’ team mascot, Pinch, and fellow Blue Crabs personality Tie-Die Guy were featured in a Facebook Live event promoting the Census. Samantha Rubin, Marketing Coordinator, was instrumental in coordinating with county and Census staff to incorporate Census outreach in these activities. Many thanks to the Blue Crabs for all their efforts to help Charles Countians get counted!


 



Jacqueline Woody

Prince George’s County

October 30, 2020​

Jaqueline Woody, Outreach Coordinator for the Prince George’s County Department of Planning, was a relentless advocate for Census education, outreach, and motivation in Prince George’s County. She provided bilingual signage in small markets and business establishments, and facilitated relationships between Planning, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the community.


 

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