The state of Maryland has need for additional assistance to supplement the work of elected officials and nonprofit agency staff in order to advance policy issues and public programs. Heightened demands of homeland security combined with pressure to increase services all without raising taxes create a unique opportunity for Maryland residents to contribute to their community and their state.
Since its inception in 2002, the Legacy Leadership Institute has trained and placed hundreds of service leaders into meaningful volunteer positions within the offices of elected officials and non-profit agencies. This cohort has amassed considerable expertise, experience and skills while making valuable contributions to all facets of society. It is clear that Maryland residents age 50+ hunger for meaningful ways to contribute to their community after their careers end. They seek to continue active engagement in new careers based on sophisticated and productive volunteer activities. They are an important resource that could be mobilized as Legacy Service Leaders to address the many needs of the people of Maryland.
Questions about the Legacy Leaders program can be directed all year round to the Director of the Legacy Leadership Institute Mr. Wesley Queen at wqueen@umd.edu or at (301) 405-2529.
Applications for the program become available in June of each year. Maryland residents 50+ are invited to apply and be interviewed to participate as leaders in Legacy Leadership.
Once selected, Legacy Leadership prepares leaders with 64 hours of intensive instruction over 8 weeks during the fall at the University of Maryland College Park campus. Ten interrelated units are offered:
- History of the State of Maryland
- Branches of government
- The legislative process
- Legislative and senate committees
- Budgets and finance
- Public policy
- County and municipal government
- Leadership
- Volunteer skills
- Professional service leader careers
Sessions are conducted by University of Maryland faculty and invited affiliated faculty from the government such as the President of the Maryland Senate, delegates and senators, secretaries of departments, mayors, county council representatives, legislative aides, and other staff experts. Legacy Leaders receive a manual of readings and study guides to supplement class instruction.
Leaders will be matched prior to the opening of the Maryland legislative session with government and nonprofit sector officials who serve as on-site mentors during the 90-day legislative session from January to early April. Seminars are conducted by Legacy Leadership staff to assist leaders and on-site mentors integrate leadership experiences and plan future Legacy Service Leader careers. Leaders participate in such activities as conducting background research on policy issues, assisting in response to constituent issues, attending legislative sessions, committees and briefings, and collaborating on special projects.