The Universities at Shady Grove (USG) hosted the 10th annual Montgomery County Business Hall of Fame (MCBHOF) earlier this year, in an annual event that honors top business leaders and raises funds to support scholarships for students who attend programs at USG each year (video below).
This year’s prestigious list of Business Hall of Fame inductees included:
- Tim Chi, Co-founder of WeddingWire and CEO of The Knot Worldwide
- Bonnie Fogel, Founder, Imagination Stage
- Jeff Galvin, CEO and Founder, American Gene Technologies
- Haroon Mokhtarzada, Co-founder and CEO of Truebill (now Rocket Money)
Through the annual event, the Montgomery County Business Hall of Fame has been able to raise more than $1.6 million for scholarships at USG. Hundreds of students who attended USG and who are currently in the Montgomery County and regional workforce have been able to benefit from the Hall of Fame’s efforts in the past.
Student speaker at this year’s event, Nadine Dogbo, a 2022 graduate from Towson University’s Early Childhood Education program at USG, shared how the Montgomery County Business Hall of Fame’s support helped relieve her of the financial stress, so that she could focus more on doing her best academically. Dogbo is now proud to be a kindergarten teacher in the Montgomery County Public School system, a grade she has always wanted to teach.
Mokhtarzada, who graduated from Blair High School and went on to attend the University of Maryland before launching a series of successful business ventures, stated during his induction speech that he is proof that “scholarship programs matter.” He noted that his family immigrated from Afghanistan when he was a young child and that he had benefited from the availability of financial aid resources and programs, including the free and reduced meal program when he was a young student in the public school system.
In her closing remarks, USG Executive Director Anne Khademian noted: “The Montgomery County Business Hall of Fame recognizes business leaders who are a vital component of a strong workforce.” She thanked business leaders for the support of the event and challenged them to increase their investment in scholarships, in order to serve even more students, adding: “Together, we can build pathways to meaningful employment and great careers for all students.”
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
