LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Long before a meeting begins or a decision is finalized, there are quiet hands guiding the process — scheduling, organizing, communicating and ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.
On April 21, during a regular meeting of the St. Mary’s County Commissioners, those often behind-the-scenes efforts were brought to the forefront as Commissioner Mike Hewitt led a proclamation honoring Administrative Professionals Day.
“Everybody knows how vitally important these people are,” Hewitt said. “They’re the people who keep us going.”
The Backbone Of Daily Operations
In reading the proclamation, Hewitt emphasized what many in government and business already understand — administrative professionals are often the most accessible and essential point of contact within an organization.
“If you want to get something done in the county government, state government, federal government, get in touch with the people who are in charge of the office,” Hewitt said. “Get in touch with the secretary or the administrative assistants, because those people have the time for you.”
The proclamation formally recognized the “essential role administrative professionals play in the efficient functioning of government offices, businesses, educational institutions and other organizations within our community.”
It also highlighted the evolving nature of the profession, noting that the work requires “advanced knowledge and expertise in communications, computer software, office technology, project management, organization, customer service and other vital skills.”
“These individuals serve as the backbone of our organizations,” Hewitt read, “providing invaluable support to executives, managers and colleagues, while ensuring the smooth operation of daily tasks and businesses.”
A Day Of Recognition
With the proclamation, the commissioners officially declared April 22, 2026, as Administrative Professionals Day in St. Mary’s County, extending “sincere gratitude to all the administrative professionals in our community, for their dedication, hard work and invaluable contributions.”
Following the proclamation, Acting Human Resources Director Tracie McPherson addressed the room, offering a heartfelt acknowledgment of the employees who keep the county government running behind the scenes.
“Today, we’re taking a moment to recognize our administrative professionals who help keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes,” McPherson said. “Your organization, attention to detail and daily support are essential to our success.”
She noted that administrative professionals play a role in nearly every aspect of county operations — from coordinating meetings to ensuring projects reach completion.
“You step in without hesitation, supporting everything from coordinating meetings to bringing projects across the finish line,” she said. “Your reliability, professionalism and commitment are truly invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for all you do.”
Faces Behind The Work
The recognition concluded with administrative professionals from across multiple county departments introducing themselves — a rare moment where the names behind the emails, schedules and logistics took center stage.
Representatives from St. Mary’s County Human Resources, Recreation and Parks, Land Use and Growth Management, Emergency Services, Public Works and Transportation, the County Attorney’s Office, St. Mary’s County Finance Dept., and the Department of Aging and Human Services were among those acknowledged.
Together, they represent a network of professionals whose work often goes unnoticed, yet remains critical to the county’s daily function and long-term success.
A Lasting Impact
While proclamations often mark a single day, the message delivered during the April 21 meeting carried a broader reminder: the strength of local government depends not only on elected officials, but on the dedicated professionals who support them every day.
“They’re the people who keep us going,” Hewitt said.
And for one day — and perhaps a little longer — St. Mary’s County made sure they were seen.
Watch the full proclamation below at 3:35.
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