Maryland Governor Visits Campus, Meets With Students and Officials

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan visited the Frostburg State University campus on Friday, Oct. 14. His visit included a tour of the university and centered around a discussion regarding small businesses with the Office of Minority Affairs. The roundtable event began at 2:30 p.m. in Gira Center and was followed by a tour at 3 p.m.

When speaking on methods to improve the state’s economic machine, Hogan stated, “Let’s create a Maryland that is thriving, growing, innovating, and is responsive to the needs of all its citizens. Let’s strive to make Maryland the best place in America to work, raise a family, start a business, and even to retire.”

Hogan met with campus officials and students, including graduate students and members of the Student Business Leadership Committee, while advocating for small businesses. The presentation described how the Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs monitors compliance of procurement and sets goals for small business and minority inclusion programs. It also recognized how the Office is helping small businesses on both macro and micro levels. Implemented tasks include reducing taxes and fees, improving physical infrastructure, improving the regulatory environment, handling corporate competency, providing access to capital, and dealing with policy insights.

Local organizations, including Frostburg State University, Allegany County Public Schools, the State Highway Administration, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of General Services, were also discussed. Attendees were informed on what these establishments are responsible for purchasing and current construction projects. Participants had informational booths available throughout the facility.

The Small Business Reserve (SBR) Program and the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program were also a topic of discussion. According to Maryland’s Department of Information Technology online resources, these recognized programs are available to minority, small, and veteran-owned business communities. Their contact information was provided for those interested in becoming connected.

The remainder of Hogan’s three-day weekend in Western Maryland included tours of the Allegany County Animal Shelter and Footer’s Dye Works building in Cumberland, visits to Western Maryland Regional Medical Center and Queen City Creamery and Deli, and participation in Garrett County’s widely known and famous annual Autumn Glory Festival. On Saturday morning, Hogan served as Grand Marshal in the Autumn Glory Parade.

More information about Hogan’s visit and small business stance can be found at http://governor.maryland.gov/.

Featured image: (Twitter/@Frostburgprez)