On behalf of the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR), I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the University of Baltimore Schaefer Center for Public Policy for your continued partnership in presenting the Maryland Equity & Inclusion Leadership Program. Your unwavering support and shared commitment to advancing equity and inclusion are integral to the success of this transformative initiative.

In a time when our communities face persistent challenges and growing complexities, programs like the Maryland Equity & Inclusion Leadership Program are more essential than ever. Together, we are equipping leaders with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to create meaningful change, confront barriers, and foster environments where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

This collaboration is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together with a shared vision of fairness and justice. The work we do through this program extends far beyond the classroom—it shapes the future of our workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods, ensuring that Maryland becomes a beacon of equity, opportunity, and inclusion for all.

At MCCR, we remain deeply committed to this mission. We understand that fostering equity and inclusion is not just a goal but a responsibility that touches every corner of our state. As we continue to navigate these challenging times, partnerships like ours inspire hope and demonstrate the power of collective action.

Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the transformative power of equity, and for helping to create a Maryland where all can belong and prosper. Together, we are building a legacy of justice and opportunity that will endure

Clevland L. Horton II, Executive Director, Maryland Commission on Civil Rights