Columbia, MD - August 28, 2008 - Beverley Francis, President and CEO of The Columbia Foundation, is among the list of participants recently chosen for the Leadership Howard County 2008-2009 Premier Program, according to an announcement by Paul Gleichauf, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

"The selection of these outstanding participants was a difficult task," said Mr. Gleichauf. "Howard County is blessed with a wealth of talented and committed people. The candidates who are selected for this program reflect a balance of interests and backgrounds, bringing an array of perspectives, talents and resources to the class."

"We are very pleased that these individuals and their respective organizations are making this commitment to enhancing the pool of leadership talent here in Howard County," he added.

The Leadership program was launched in 1985 to develop capable, well-informed individ uals committed to formulating plans for community improvement. The program addresses countywide issues in monthly, daylong seminars where these concerned citizens meet with established leaders in business, government and community services.

"The emergence of community leaders should not be left to mere chance," says Stacie Hunt Irish, President and CEO of the Leadership Program. "Therefore, we have designed a program to identify and prepare outstanding leaders who are committed to meeting the challenges of community development and Howard County's future."

Founded in 1969, the Foundation has awarded over $9 million in grants to Howard County nonprofit organizations delivering human service, arts and cultural, educational and civic programs. Money for the grant programs comes primarily from income generated by the Foundation’s endowment supported by over 230 funds established by Howard County busine sses, families and individuals. For more information on The Columbia Foundati on, visit www.columbiafoundation.org or call 410-730-7840.