Washington, D.C. (December 12, 2018) – Six local leaders were recognized today by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) at its annual membership meeting for their partnership, collaboration, and service to the metropolitan Washington region.
COG President and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson presented Maryland Delegate Marc Korman, Maryland Senator Brian Feldman, and Virginia Senator George Barker with the award (from left to right).
Virginia State Senator George Barker, Maryland State Senator Brian Feldman, and Maryland State Delegate Marc Korman received the Special Regional Impact Award for their efforts to help ensure the long-term safety, reliability, and success of the Metro system. The award was created to recognize the contributions of the three lawmakers that collaborated with executives and legislators in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia to help pass the Metro dedicated funding agreement. Additionally, they were involved with COG’s Metro Strategy Group, which worked together to forge political consensus regarding Metro’s capital needs. Senators Barker and Feldman are also active members of the COG Board of Directors.
Former Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett presented former Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker with the award (from left to right).
Former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker received the Elizabeth and David Scull Metropolitan Public Service Award. The Scull Award is given to a local, state, or federal elected official, who demonstrates great leadership at the regional level. It is named after the late Montgomery County Councilmembers, who were strong supporters of COG and regional cooperation. For eight years, Baker led Prince George’s County and helped spur economic development in the region, through projects like the MGM National Harbor casino and University of Maryland regional medical center. He was a strong supporter of COG’s Region Forward vision for greater transit-oriented development, sustainable growth, and inclusive prosperity.
COG Board Chairman and Loudoun County Supervisor Matthew Letourneau presented NVTC Executive Director Kate Mattice with the award.
Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) Executive Director Kate Mattice received the Ronald F. Kirby Award for Collaborative Leadership. The Kirby Award recognizes non-elected government executives, who work collaboratively with elected officials, stakeholders, and their communities to shape a better region. The award is presented in the memory of Ron Kirby, COG’s Transportation Planning Director from 1987 to 2013. NVTC manages state and regional funding for Metrorail, VRE, and six local bus systems. Under Mattice’s leadership, NVTC’s collaboration with COG and regional partners was instrumental in the Metro dedicated funding effort.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser presented Leadership Greater Washington Board Chair Pinkie Mayfield (second from left) and LGW President Doug Duncan (left) with the award.
Leadership Greater Washington (LGW) received the Regional Partnership Award. The Partnership Award is presented to organizations or individuals who have worked with COG to improve the quality of life for area residents. LGW aims to foster engagement among leaders to create a positive community impact. Additionally, LGW’s leadership development programs, many of which COG staff and members have participated in, help prepare the next generation of leaders as well as help seasoned leaders solve complex regional challenges. LGW President and CEO Doug Duncan and Board Chair Pinkie Mayfield accepted the award on behalf of the organization.