Montgomery College Is a Host Site for Governor’s Inaugural Class of Service Year Option and Maryland Corps Members

Montgomery College has been selected as a host site for the inaugural Class of Service Year Option and Maryland Corps members, a partnership with the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation.

The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation is in its first year and is expanding service and volunteerism statewide, creating new pathways of service to meet community needs, enhancing workforce development, and promoting preparedness for both higher and vocational education. Roles at the host sites can range from academic tutoring, assisting in healthcare facilities, advancing public safety, to taking up environment conservation projects.

“We’re beyond excited to roll out these programs,” said Paul Monteiro, Maryland’s Secretary of Service and Civic Innovation. “They’re not just about offering opportunities but linking service, education, and job readiness into a unified, powerful experience.”

A Maryland Corps member serves as a student ambassador lead for MC Votes, a working group of faculty, staff, and students encouraging voter education and engagement at Montgomery College. MC Votes implements the College’s voter engagement plan and supports collaboration and cross-promotion of voter education and engagement.

The partnership with the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation was made possible by state officials, including Governor Wes Moore, Senator Cheryl C. Kagan, Delegate David Fraser-Hidalgo, and Delegate Linda Foley.

“It’s a thrill to watch how a campaign promise became a new law… and now an exciting new program that is changing lives!” said Sen. Cheryl C. Kagan (District 17, Montgomery County), vice chair for the Education, Energy, Environment, and Elections Committee. “The partnership between the participants and the host employers is a win/win and will help to mentor and inspire Maryland’s future leaders.”

“Each generation of Americans have the responsibility to continue the work of further perfecting our union,” said Del. David Fraser-Hidalgo (District 15, Montgomery County). “Unique programs like the Service Year Option and the Maryland Corps help our generation and the ones that follow deliver on that responsibility. These future leaders will develop a sense of community, camaraderie, and compassion for their neighbors through their involvement. I am excited to see the positive impact these programs will have in district 15, Montgomery County, and Maryland as a whole.”

“Montgomery College is proud to serve as a host site for the Service Year Option and Maryland Corps Program,” said Dr. Jermaine F. Williams, president of Montgomery College. “Increased civic engagement is one of our goals as we empower our students to enrich the community. MC Votes is an initiative that encourages voter education and engagement, both of which strengthen our democracy.”

Del. Linda Foley (District 15) said, “The Service Year Option and the Maryland Corps will ensure that Montgomery County’s future leaders get the chance to experience community involvement, which hopefully will inspire them to continue public service throughout their careers. Results from these programs will benefit all residents of District 15, Montgomery County and the State of Maryland.”

“The launch of the Service Year Option and Maryland Corps Program represents a renewed commitment to cultivating opportunities and inspiring a spirit of service in Maryland,” said Governor Wes Moore. “We’re not just launching programs; we’re connecting Marylanders to their communities and unlocking their potential in ways that will shape our collective future.”