BALTIMORE ( JULY 1, 2011) – The Maryland Commission for Women (MCW) hosted its fourteenth annual Women of Tomorrow recognition ceremony on June 30, 2011 at the Maryland Yacht Club Clubhouse in Anne Arundel county. The award, established in 1997, identifies young women in middle school and high school who have set sail into their future by demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to community service and academic excellence.
The honorees were selected through a process that begins with an annual statewide call for nominations. An independent, all-volunteer selection committee reviews the applications and normally selects six young women, two per grade grouping from sixth through twelfth grades. However, this year eight young women will be honored.
“This annual event highlights young women who are making significant and remarkable contributions to their communities,” said Theodore Dallas, secretary of the Maryland Department of Human Resources. “These young ladies are truly our future leaders.”
The Maryland Commission for Women, established by the Maryland Legislature in 1971, promotes the social, political, and economic equality of Maryland women. It advises government, advances solutions, and serves as a statewide resource to expand social, political, and economic opportunities for all women.
The 2011 Women of Tomorrow Award honorees include:
Grades 7-8: First Place – Michelle Horne, Chesapeake Public Charter School, St. Mary’s County.
Michelle Horne
Michelle Horne resides in St. Mary’s County and is a student at Chesapeake 
Public Charter School (CPCS) in 8th grade. Growing up in St. Mary’s County, she helps her parents with a very small farm “The Horne’s Mini Farm,” by taking care of chickens, gathering eggs and harvesting vegetables and fruits from the garden.
Michelle has maintained a 3.5 grade point average during middle school. At school, she has a reputation as a dependable, trust worthy student with a strong sense of confidence who works well with others. Michelle is an outstanding leader and is involved with her school and community.
She was selected as a Yearbook Student Leader and has also served on the student council. Michelle organized the middle school dances and is a trained peer mediator. She received first place in a robotics competition and was also recognized for her photography. She willingly shares her knowledge with others.
She has been involved with a program at her church, Wrappin’ Arms Around Many (WARM), that helps the homeless to have safe and warm nights and hot meals during the winter months. Michelle has researched and created a video documentary on the causes, effects, and possible solutions to homelessness in St. Mary’s County. She entered her video for consideration in a Competition sponsored by C-SPAN.
