LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Commissioner President James “Randy” Guy of St. Mary’s County will be honored with the Marilyn J. Praisner Public Service Award at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Conference on Dec. 10–12 in Cambridge, Md. The award recognizes county elected officials who demonstrate outstanding public service to their communities and to MACo.
Guy was selected for the statewide honor for his long record of public service and his contributions to St. Mary’s County government. According to the nomination submitted by the St. Mary’s County Government Public Information Office, the award highlights his service as commissioner president and his work on the MACo Board of Directors, where he has supported collaboration among counties and elevated rural priorities.
St. Mary’s County Commissioner Eric Colvin said Guy is a collaborative leader who focuses on service rather than recognition, works to build consensus, listens to all perspectives and ensures that St. Mary’s County government remains fair, accessible and representative.
“I am incredibly proud of Randy for this deserving award,” Colvin said. “Being able to work side-by-side with him, I see the hard work and effort he puts in, and I know how much he cares about, and loves, St. Mary’s County and all its residents.”
Catherine Pratson, director of Human Resources for St. Mary’s County government, said Guy’s support for employees has strengthened county culture and employee wellness.
“Commissioner Guy’s kindness and awareness of employees and their many efforts have directly and positively impacted our culture,” Pratson said. “Commissioner Guy has been an early and consistent supporter of employee wellness, using his own health journey as an example and empowering our employees and department heads to support a holistic view of employee wellness.”
St. Mary’s County Attorney Buffy Giddens said Guy’s approach to major initiatives and daily governance has emphasized transparency, respect for the law and a commitment to improving government services. She said his support for employees has also strengthened St. Mary’s County.
“Commissioner President Randy Guy exemplifies what the Marilyn J. Praisner Public Service Award seeks to honor,” Giddens said. “Throughout his tenure, he has approached every issue, large and small, with a steady commitment to fairness, integrity and the long-term well-being of St. Mary’s County.”
Lori Jennings-Harris, director of the Department of Aging and Human Services, said Guy is known for his consistent support of older adults, youth and families, and his commitment to invest in the county’s fast-growing senior population and promote opportunities for residents to stay active and engaged.
“He understands the importance of staying active and vibrant as we age, and, in the highest form of flattery, he doesn’t just support our programs from afar — he shows up and participates in many of the activities offered through the department,” Harris said. “His presence, energy and genuine care send a powerful message: older adults are valued, capable and central to the life of St. Mary’s County.”
County Leaders To Gather As Guy Receives Statewide Public Service Honor
The award will be presented at the MACo Winter Conference during the Awards Banquet on Dec. 10 at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, Md. According to MACo, Guy is being recognized for his “lifelong commitment to public service, steadfast leadership and dedication to improving the quality of life for St. Mary’s residents.”
More than 1,000 county officials, state leaders and policy experts are expected to attend the Winter Conference. The event’s theme, “Local Leadership, Lasting Impact: Shaping What’s Next,” focuses on major issues expected before the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session, including transportation, housing, workforce development, cybersecurity and emergency services.
The three-day conference includes general sessions, educational panels, 70 exhibitors and meetings of county affiliates and coalitions. The program also features the installation of MACo’s 2026 Board of Directors during the Inaugural Banquet on Dec. 11, with Gov. Wes Moore presiding.
The Maryland Association of Counties is a nonprofit organization representing elected officials and county governments from Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City. Its mission includes advocacy, policy coordination and training programs that support local governments in serving community residents across the state.
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