FREDERICK, Md. – The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) recognized Katie Stevens, Director of Agriculture and Small Business in the Frederick County Office of Economic Development, with the 2023 MEDA Rising Star Award.
The award recognizes candidates for their dedication to Maryland’s economic development. Stevens’ work on numerous projects that have significantly influenced Frederick County’s economic landscape made her a standout candidate for the award. Some of her most notable accomplishments were spearheading three rounds of the award-winning Agriculture Innovation Grants program, which foster innovation and new opportunities for the local farm community so farmers can diversify into value-added production, and being instrumental in awarding millions of dollars to local businesses through state and federal funding.
“Katie’s dedication to our agriculture economy is inspiring,” Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. “Through her continued leadership, she has made remarkable contributions so our farms – and our farmers – can thrive for years to come. Katie’s work is helping to preserve our community’s rich agricultural history while paving a way for a bright future. She is very deserving of this prestigious recognition.”
Mrs. Stevens, who grew up on her family's dairy farm, has several notable accomplishments during her tenure with the Office of Economic Development. She spearheaded three rounds of the award-winning Agriculture Innovation Grants program, which foster innovation and new opportunities for the local farm community so farmers can diversify into value-added production. She was also instrumental in awarding millions of dollars to local businesses through state and federal funding.
“Katie Stevens has that unique talent to bring the County’s traditional dairy and row crop farming economy together with the NEW nontraditional farming operations all together in harmony with Frederick’s growth,” said Tom Mullineaux, President of the Frederick County Agri-Business Committee.
For more information on the nomination process and MEDA, visit https://www.medamd.com.
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