Five government officials from Harford County graduated from the Academy for Excellence on Local Governance on Sept. 18, at the University of Maryland in College Park.
They were among 90 public officials from across the state who completed the program, which takes about two years to finish.
Aberdeen Councilwoman Ruth Ann Young, Harford County Attorney Rob McCord, County Councilman Jim McMahan, County Councilman Chad Shrodes and Bel Air Town Administrator Chris Schlehr were all graduates this year.
Aberdeen Mayor Mike Bennett delivered the graduation speech.
The Academy, which offered its first classes in 1998, is a collaborative effort of the University of Maryland's Institute for Governmental Service and Research, the Maryland Municipal League, the Maryland Association of Counties and the Local Government Insurance Trust.
Academy Fellows enhance their understanding of local government issues and ethical standards for public service, as well as develop a foundation for informed policymaking and effective governance.
The Institute for Governmental Service and Research (IGSR) is dedicated to improving the well-being of individuals and communities through applied research, education, training and technology innovations in partnership with public agencies. Founded in 1948 at the University of Maryland, IGSR is the state's oldest university public service unit working with local governments to enhance governance in the state.