Nomination Period Closes for 2018 Governor’s Service Awards

ANNAPOLIS, MD – The nomination period for the 2018 Governor’s Service Awards closed Wednesday at midnight. The awards, hosted by the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism, marks its 35th year of recognizing extraordinary Maryland citizens who have provided significant volunteer contributions to communities around the state and for working to change Maryland for the better. This year, 170 nominations were submitted in the 15 award categories.

“We are excited to begin the process of reviewing the nominations – which showcase the service of everyday Marylanders who go above and beyond in serving our communities,” said Van Brooks, Director of the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism. “All our nominees have accomplished tremendous feats, and we are thankful for their service to our communities.”

The nominations will be reviewed by a panel of community leaders, volunteers, and staff of the Office on Service and Volunteerism over a two-month-long period during the summer. Nominations will be scored and ranked, based on eligibility and impact on the community.

In 2017, the Governor’s Service Awards honored 17 groups and individuals, including Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board of Marriott International, Inc., J.W. Marriott. Mr. Marriott received the Governor’s Champion of Service Award for working to develop a culture of service at his company, the countless hours he has spent serving communities through the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, and his military service.

“Maryland volunteers are important partners in our mission to build vibrant communities,” said Steve McAdams, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives. “The Governor’s Service Awards provide an opportunity for us to recognize the selfless and tireless efforts of Maryland volunteers to improve our communities, address important issues, and serve fellow citizens.”

Each person who submitted a nomination to recognize a volunteer through the program will be notified of whether their nominee was selected by late August. Recipients of the awards will be invited, along with their guests, to an awards ceremony in the fall. To learn more about the awards and view last year’s recipients, visit gosv.maryland.gov/governors-service-awards.