The Faith Spotlight
The GOCI Faith Spotlight highlights the inspiring work of Maryland’s diverse faith communities. Through insightful conversations with faith leaders and organizations, this series explores initiatives that align with one of the Moore-Miller Administration’s top priorities: making Maryland a state of service. By sharing the stories and legacies of faith communities and faith-based organizations, the series aims to dismantle fear, foster understanding, and build bridges of connection and support. Guided by Dr. Lora Hargrove, GOCI’s Director of Faith Outreach, Faith Spotlight highlights the crucial role faith plays in strengthening communities and driving meaningful change.
Episode 1:
Dr. Ofonedu shares insights into the Faith Community Learning Collaborative: A Disability Inclusion Ambassador Leadership Training, a program designed to empower faith leaders and communities with the tools and knowledge to create more inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities.
Faith Spotlight: Connecting Purpose and Profession at Saint John’s Catholic Prep
On Friday, March 28, 2025, Dr. Lora Hargrove, Director of Faith at the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, participated in the second annual Career Fair at Saint John’s Catholic Prep High School in Buckeystown, Maryland. Speaking directly with juniors and seniors in a roundtable format, Dr. Hargrove shared her professional journey and highlighted the importance of faith, service, and strong communication in shaping a meaningful and impactful career.
The connection with Saint John’s Catholic Prep was made possible through Dr. Hargrove’s ongoing relationship with the school. She has previously spoken at their Career Day and engaged with individual religion classes, fostering a meaningful partnership rooted in shared values of service and education.
As part of the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, we recognize the importance of engaging with Maryland’s youth through education and open dialogue. Events like this career fair are essential for helping students connect their personal values and interests to real-world opportunities. These moments of connection encourage civic engagement and demonstrate how identity and purpose can guide their future pathways.
Student Marshall Workman shared his appreciation, writing:
“Thank you for the Career Day presentation. Learning about your work for the Maryland government was eye-opening. As someone interested in finance and business, I found the discussion on communicating with different groups especially valuable.”
Special thanks to the dedicated Student Support Center team at Saint John’s Catholic Prep: Lana Early, Julie Hoehn, Diana Seymour, Mary Beth O’Boyle, Sarah Bosser, and all those who helped organize this meaningful event. A special acknowledgment goes to Mrs. Janet Ryczko, Director of Academic Support / Seton Program, Learning Specialist, and Community Service Coordinator, for handling all of the logistics to include the Moore-Miller Administration in their Career Day.
Opportunities like this inspire the next generation of leaders by reminding them that their voices and values matter. Through its ongoing work with diverse faith communities across Maryland, Faith Outreach at the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives proudly supports Governor Moore’s vision of making Maryland the state that serves.
