Advocacy in Action
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DRAGON COUNTRY IN ANNAPOLIS
Howard Community College students proudly represented their peers at the Maryland Association of Community Colleges’ annual Student Advocacy Day in Annapolis. Joined by HCC President Dr. Daria J. Willis, students spoke with state leaders including Maryland Delegates Jessica Feldmark and Pam Guzzone, meeting directly with legislators to champion the value of community colleges and call for full state funding.
With powerful personal stories and unwavering resolve, community college students demonstrated why investments in affordable, accessible higher education change lives. Their voices—clear, informed, and passionate— continue to shape the future of Maryland’s education priorities.
RAISEing UP MARYLAND’S WORKFORCE
HCC student Sumeet Dave made headlines in February 2025 as he testified before Maryland legislators in support of the RAISE (Recruitment for Advancement and Innovation in Skilled Employment) Act. As a cybersecurity apprenticeship student, Sumeet shared how hands-on experience and classroom instruction at HCC prepared him for a thriving career while reducing college debt.
Speaking alongside Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu, his powerful testimony underscored the importance of expanding “earn while you learn” opportunities across Maryland. Dr. Daria J. Willis praised Sumeet’s advocacy as a shining example of student leadership and how HCC’s workforce programs directly align with state economic priorities and the future of workforce development.
SUPPORTING HOWARD COUNTY’S FEDERAL WORKFORCE
HCC served as the proud host of a Federal Workers Town Hall featuring U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth, and Howard County Executive Dr. Calvin Ball. With overwhelming community interest, the Kahlert Foundation Complex auditorium was filled to capacity. Leaders addressed key issues facing federal workers and answered questions from a highly engaged community audience. HCC was honored to be at the center of this critical conversation, which lies at the intersection of policy, workforce, and civic engagement.
DRAGON COUNTRY HOSTS MARYLAND STATE COMMISSION EVENTS
HCC welcomed leaders from across the state as the proud host of three Maryland State Commission events this year. The Commission on Civil Rights symposium, “Protecting Civil Rights During Challenging Times,” featured keynote speaker Governor Wes Moore, followed by Howard County Executive, Dr. Calvin Ball. Community members convened for powerful discussions on dismantling structural inequities and fostering inclusive excellence. The event featured expert panelists and actionable strategies that align with HCC’s institutional equity goals.
The Governor’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and the Governor’s Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs also hosted events that highlighted HCC’s growing role as a statewide hub for dialogue, cultural celebration, and policy advancement rooted in belonging and equity.