Baltimore County Leader Insight: John Hayden

A Special Interview: November 2022

During LBC’s 30th anniversary, I had the pleasure of chairing its Board of Directors. As I reflect on that experience 10 years later, I appreciate how participating in LBC’s signature and alumni programs fostered my enthusiasm for service. In particular, it helped me pursue my philanthropic passion: education.  
 
Over time, I became a school board member, chair of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education, and a member of foundation boards at CCBC, Stevenson University and Towson University. These experiences added to my understanding of and dedication to civic leadership as I saw what a tremendous impact volunteers can make in our community. The challenges of each organization are different, but the enthusiasm of those around each cause and organization is refreshing and inspiring.
 
It is a joy to witness LBC alumni living out their philanthropic mission and supporting each other in their civic roles.  Elayne Hettleman, founding President of LBC, embodied that joy in service. She inspired alumni to give their best, and as a classmate once said she could “light a candle from across the room.” That same spark carries on today through 1300+ LBC alumni supporting each other and making a positive impact on our community every day.