The University of Maryland Institute for Public Leadership (IPL) and the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance are at the forefront of efforts to improve public welfare through effective local governance. IPL supports initiatives such as the Maryland Municipal League (MML) Summer Conference, currently underway in Ocean City, Maryland, which highlights the unique educational and professional development needs of the state’s municipal leaders, staff and local governments. Since its founding in 1936, MML has represented Maryland's 157 incorporated cities and towns, along with three special taxing districts. The MML Summer Conference brings together municipal leaders from across the state to discuss best practices, share insights and develop strategies for effective governance, drawing attention to the critical role local government leadership plays in community well-being.
IPL Director John Ronquillo delivered remarks during the conference’s opening session, highlighting IPL's mission to support, educate and empower Maryland’s municipal leaders. “We're here to complement and enhance the excellent work already being done across our state,” asserted Ronquillo.
We at IPL are keen to explore partnerships that can drive innovation, efficiency and excellence in public service. ... We believe that by working together, we can create even stronger, more resilient communities across Maryland.John Ronquillo
Ronquillo emphasized the importance of the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance, now in its 26th year, in fostering leadership excellence across Maryland’s municipalities, and expressed gratitude for the partnership between IPL and MML. “We at IPL are keen to explore partnerships that can drive innovation, efficiency and excellence in public service,” shared Ronquillo. “... We believe that by working together, we can create even stronger, more resilient communities across Maryland.”
Ronquillo commended the tireless efforts of municipal leaders, acknowledging their dedication to public service and commitment to improving their communities. Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s keynote address reinforced the theme of service.
Reflecting on Moore’s speech, Ronquillo shared, “IPL was proud to be a premier sponsor of the Maryland Municipal League’s Summer Conference opening general session with a keynote speech from Governor Moore. He reiterated his position that ‘service will save us,’ and IPL is happy to reinforce that belief and provide resources to support people in their leadership trajectories.”
The MML Summer Conference serves as a vital platform for municipal leaders to engage in dialogue, learn from one another and collaborate on innovative solutions for their communities. IPL's involvement illustrates the institute's dedication to fostering strong public leadership and creating robust partnerships across the state.
“With our first year under our belt,” said Ronquillo, “it’s important to now take IPL to the people and start cultivating new partnerships throughout the state, and there’s no better place than a conference that gives us exposure to all municipal governments in Maryland.”
