President

David Schultz (Candidate for President)

About the candidate

I have been keeping bees in MD since 2014 and am a member of multiple county Beekeeping clubs as well as MSBA. I have been mentoring many beekeepers over the years through programs such as HCBA Continuing Education Class (we meet every week of the year to discuss and learn about beekeeping and perform hive inspections), Journeyman Beekeeper Course (we are on our 5th year of candidates, we meet monthly for the year), and the Master Beekeeper Study Group (we have over 30 candidates at various stages of study and exam taking, we have 13 new master beekeepers in the past 5 years from our group). In 2022 I became a Maryland State Apiary Inspector and have learned so much from Cybil and Storm.

Why this position

I have enjoyed my years of being the V. President and President of the Howard County Beekeepers Association (HCBA), and being the V. President and President this year for the MSBA. I enjoy expanding the scope and reach of the clubs that I have been involved with and have seen membership participation improve during my tenure. I enjoy meeting and learning from our Maryland beekeepers. Traveling across the state to meet with beekeepers and beekeeper associations has been the highlight of my experiences to date.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I have past experience in executive positions with beekeeping clubs and in my other work life. I have always had a natural leadership style where I lead by example and garner followers, using honey to attract beekeepers instead of a stick.

Hoped-for accomplishments

This year we have made some headway in increasing our educational offerings at MSBA. I would like to continue that pursuit. We are also providing a more structured opportunity for MSBA donations to groups that directly impact our ability to better keep our bees and I would like to continue to add to that structure as well.

First Vice-President

Valerie Wampler (Candidate for First Vice-President)

About the candidate

.I am currently MSBA Secretary. Previous positions held were 2nd VP representing Howard County and MSBA Director. I believe in advocacy for honey bees and native bees. I love mentoring but especially education. Sharing information on beekeeping helps in advocacy about bees but also providing those just starting this journey with helpful information towards their success. I have several early mentors who willingly and openly shared their knowledge early in my beekeeping and has set that goal for me to continue.

Why this position

.I would like to be 1st VP to develop MSBA programs that touches all aspects and challenges old and new beekeepers. Beekeeping excites me because of its eclectic nature, always learning and something new, ever boring. The potential of the 1st VP to bring in speakers, arrange exciting programs and advocate for agriculture among MD drives me to run for 1st VP.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I've been a successful beekeeper for 12 years with a high rate of overwintering. I present at multiple Maryland Beekeeping groups. I am always looking for ways to volunteer and give back. I have stretched myself in the past couple of years to improve advocacy of beekeeping by working with others in a beekeeping program for inmates, starting a 4H/FFA multi-county Teaching Apiary and initiating a beekeeping program at a local community college. This helps improve my skills of people networking and working with others towards developing and presenting programs.

Hoped-for accomplishments

.I hope to develop programs for the entire year by reaching out and getting contracts with multiple speakers lined up. I hope to advertise these programs throughout MD and increase in-person attendance and increase MSBA membership and participation. I'd like to listen to counties and 2nd VP representatives in developing programs that appeal to their members. I'd like to see us move meetings throughout the state or more centrally to increase in-person attendance.

Secretary

Regina Andrew (Candidate for Secretary)

About the candidate

Hello, I'm Regina Andrew, and I'm honored to nominate myself for MSBA Secretary (if vacant). I've kept bees since 2021 and became a lifetime member of MSBA around the same time. Within MSBA, I've served as Baltimore County Second Vice President and as a hospitality volunteer, starting with coffee and tea service and later adding breakfast snacks and fruit. In my county bee club I served a Librarian, then President working closely with its board and stepping as secretary during a temporary vacancy, where I kept accurate meeting minutes and had them approved as the club's permanent record. I'd welcome the chance to bring that experience to MSBA.

Why this position

I'm volunteering to help MSBA grow as a Beekeepers Association and continue the good work of our former secretary.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I bring hands-on experience in the work a member of the board does. I understand how members, committees, and events fit together. I would offer organized records, clear communication, and a steady, welcoming presence that helps the board run smoothly and keeps members informed.

Hoped-for accomplishments

What I hope to accomplish is advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, so that everyone feels welcome and comfortable in a learning environment, rather than left out because they aren't part of a clique.

Treasurer

Lisa Marie Ghezzi (Candidate for Treasurer)

About the candidate

Lisa Marie has been working bees for more than 17 years and currently runs 40 colonies at Maxmore Creek Farm, on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Her small-scale/sideliner operation produces and sells honey, queens and NUCs. Lisa Marie is President of her local bee club, the Wye River Beekeepers. As an EAS Certified Master Beekeeper and Master Gardener Emeritus, she presents topics on nectar and pollen sources, bee biology and life cycles and beekeeping best practices for EAS, MAEOE Maryland teachers, state and local bee clubs, community groups, Master Gardeners and local company field workforces. Lisa’s primary interest is to communicate the importance of planting native plants in quantity and across all seasons to improve bee forage.

Why this position

Good day! As your current Treasurer I would be pleased to continue in the role and manage MSBA’s finances. Since becoming Treasurer in October 2024, I worked with other MSBA officers to regain the transparency of our financials and set our books up in QuickBooks. Next, I worked with Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration to reinstate our license plate program; it was up and running again in January 2025. Over the past nearly two years I have been managing the books, presenting MSBA’s financials at our annual meeting, managing the license plate program and completing various other duties. It has been my pleasure to work with the MSBA Officers and members to support MSBA’s educational benefits, income producing activities and networking of our members.

Experience, skills, or perspective

As a graduate of the Georgetown School of Business, I have a Masters in Business with an emphasis on finance. I have a keen interest in supporting our members with multiple educational and networking opportunities, as well as growing our membership. I believe that a well-run, and transparent organization is most effective at achieving these ends.

Hoped-for accomplishments

I plan to have financial information available and provide that information to MSBA’s Officers on a timely basis and as requested to allow them to improve upon decision making for the organization.

Directors

Charles DeBarber (Candidate for Directors)

About the candidate

Charles DeBarber is a Baltimore-based beekeeper, urban agriculture advocate, and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to environmental stewardship, food sovereignty, and community education. Since 2015, Charles has served as Beeyard Manager and Garden Coordinator at Filbert Street Garden in Curtis Bay, where he helps maintain urban apiaries, supports sustainable agriculture, and introduces community members to the importance of pollinators. His work emphasizes making beekeeping accessible to underserved communities, particularly veterans and urban residents. Charles has helped secure funding for environmental initiatives, educational programming, and hands-on beekeeping workshops that connect people with nature. Through his advocacy, he promotes biodiversity, local food production, and the preservation of pollinator habitats. He believes urban green spaces can strengthen communities while inspiring future generations to become environmental stewards.

Why this position

I would like to serve Maryland’s beekeeping community in a board role where I can help shape policies, support new initiatives, and strengthen outreach across the state. I’m particularly excited about connecting with beekeepers from every corner of Maryland, learning from their experiences, and bringing their perspectives to the table. Having witnessed how regulatory changes in 2013 made beekeeping more accessible in Baltimore City, I recognize the importance of advocacy and education. I believe there are tremendous opportunities to engage urban beekeepers, younger generations, and communities traditionally underrepresented in beekeeping associations. I hope to help build a more inclusive, connected, and thriving beekeeping community throughout Maryland.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I want to serve Maryland’s beekeeping community by advising on policies, strengthening outreach, and connecting with beekeepers across the state. I’ve built strong relationships with beekeepers throughout Central Maryland, taught at multiple county associations, and assisted fellow beekeepers with everything from hive management to swarm catching, something I particularly enjoy! I’m passionate about expanding opportunities for urban beekeepers, younger generations, and communities traditionally underrepresented in beekeeping clubs. I also have an extensive collection of antique beekeeping equipment that I enthusiastically share online and at club meetings, helping others appreciate our craft’s history. I hope to bring my experience, enthusiasm, and community connections to the board while learning from beekeepers throughout Maryland.

Hoped-for accomplishments

During my term, I hope to expand membership by reaching younger beekeepers, veterans, and historically marginalized communities whose beekeepers often operate independently or within smaller networks. We've had success doing this at Filbert Street Garden in Baltimore City, where we've helped bring younger generations and families into a space traditionally supported by retirees and older volunteers. As a disabled veteran, I've also had tremendous success connecting with fellow veterans interested in learning the art of beekeeping. I'd love to build on these experiences statewide, helping local associations develop outreach initiatives, connect with community gardens and veteran organizations, and make beekeeping clubs more welcoming and accessible. Ultimately, I want more Maryland beekeepers to feel they have a place in our community.

Diane Wellons (Candidate for Directors)

About the candidate

I am a lifetime member of the MSBA and have served several years as a second VP the last year as a Director. I sit as a current President of the ASMB and am invested in beekeeping in our region and state.

Why this position

I grow as I learn and being a member of the MSBA board allows for both. Making connections with others around the state and learning how we all have a part to play to help beekeepers in MD.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I'm a lifelong learner with 12 years of beekeeping experience. I have experience on this board and several others. I am a business owner and have a unique perspective about my own journey. I'm willing to share and offer whatever I can to help promote beekeeping here and abroad.

Hoped-for accomplishments

Continue to build relationships with other keepers around the state and help play a small part in growing awareness and understanding of the importance of the mighty honey bee.

MSBA Representative serving on the Eastern Apicultural Society's Board of Directors

Clyde Strang (Candidate for MSBA Representative serving on the Eastern Apicultural Society's Board of Directors)

About the candidate

Hi, I am Clyde Strang and grew up with beekeeping. My father was a member of MSBA and I am a lifetime member. My early experiences with beekeeping were limited since my father had defensive bees. I returned to beekeeping in 2000 and manage about 50 colonies.

Why this position

I have served as the Maryland Director to EAS for the last four years and look forward to serving for the next four year term. I enjoy attending the local club meetings to educate members about the benefits of attending the EAS annual meeting.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I have attended the EAS Annual Meeting since 2017. I became a certified EAS Master beekeeper and was a member of the planning committee for the annual meeting held at Turf Valley. I have presented, volunteered, and proctored the Master Beekeeping examination at EAS meetings.

Hoped-for accomplishments

I would like to see an increase in Maryland attendance at the annual EAS meeting and want to encourage Maryland beekeepers to take the EAS master beekeeper examination. As a Master Beekeeper, I actively mentor and encourage new beekeepers. The meetings are a great educational experience for all levels of beekeepers.

Second VP of Allegany County

No candidates yet. If you live in Allegany County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of Anne Arundel County

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Second VP of Baltimore County

Steven Cason (Candidate for Second VP of Baltimore County)

About the candidate

I've been a beekeeper in Baltimore County for the last 16 years, having first learned the craft from Jerry Fischer in an MSBA intro class. I've been an MSBA member off and on since then. I've now retired from a 45-year career in software development, 28 of those years serving the Social Security Administration. I live on a few rural acres with my wife, 2 cats, a dozen chickens, and lots of bees.

Why this position

I'd like to see more interconnection between MSBA and the county and local associations, and more of a sense of community among the various organizations of beekeepers in the state. I'd work toward a greater awareness and participation by Baltimore County beekeepers in the MSBA and in statewide concerns. I'd work to ensure that the MSBA supports and serves the needs of all Maryland beekeepers: pollinators, side-liners, honey farms, and hobbyists. I'd work to urge our legislature to enact laws and regulations that protect and encourage beekeepers without unduly hampering other forms of agriculture.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I'm the webmaster and newsletter editor for the CMBA, as well as serving as VP. So, I'm familiar with the challenges and rewards of serving on a nonprofit Board of Trustees. I'm keen on creating and maintaining coordination among online resources, social media platforms, publications, public events, and so forth. Coordination requires communication, so I'm diligent about keeping n touch with my colleagues and with the membership. Outside the beekeeping world, I've been a leader in my workplaces in organizing my team mates to ensure that we work productively together and that we remain aligned in our goals and methods. I'm retired now, so I have plenty of time to devote to MSBA business.

Hoped-for accomplishments

When I joined the CMBA Board some years ago, it seemed to me that there was a healthy cohesion between the CMBA, the MSBA, and the other beekeepers associations. We were aware of what the other county clubs were doing, and they were aware of us. Lately it seems to me that Baltimore County at least has become more isolated, as if that former community had splintered. I'd like to increase the flow of news, announcements, support, etc, between Baltimore County beekeepers and the MSBA and all of Maryland beekeepers. With the economic, environmental, and legal challenges facing us today, we can build a more united and mutually supportive community, so that we can face the future together.

Second VP of Baltimore City

Robert Yochem (Candidate for Second VP of Baltimore City)

About the candidate

I’m a Baltimore City beekeeper based in historic Fells Point, with a deep commitment to honey bees, sustainable beekeeping, and sharing knowledge with others. I’m a lifetime member of the Maryland State Beekeepers Association (MSBA) and an active member of the Eastern Apicultural Society (EAS). Each year, I serve as an instructor for the DCBA Intro to Beekeeping course, helping new beekeepers develop the skills and confidence to care for their colonies successfully. In addition to managing approximately 45 hives across three states, I specialize in queen rearing and breeding, with a particular interest in producing healthy, locally adapted queens. I enjoy both the hands-on challenges of managing colonies and the opportunity to learn from and contribute to the broader beekeeping community.

Why this position

I want to serve as MSBA’s 2nd VP for Baltimore City to support beekeepers and promote education, collaboration, and healthy honey bee colonies.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I bring to the MSBA board a combination of hands-on beekeeping experience, teaching, queen breeding, and a strong commitment to organizational leadership and service. Managing 45 hives across three states gives me experience with varied climates & management practices while my queen-breeding work strengthens my focus on colony health, genetics, and sustainable beekeeping. As an instructor, I understand the importance of education and developing the next generation of beekeepers. As a lifetime MSBA member and EAS member, I value collaboration, communication, and member engagement. My perspective as a Baltimore City beekeeper allows me to represent urban beekeepers while helping connect them with the broader Maryland community. I hope to contribute thoughtful leadership, practical experience, and a collaborative, forward-looking perspective to the board.

Hoped-for accomplishments

During my term, I want to help MSBA become an even stronger, more connected, and forward-looking organization. Strengthening communication between MSBA and local associations, ensuring that members’ voices are heard, and building greater engagement across Maryland’s diverse beekeeping community is key. I want to expand meaningful education and mentorship opportunities, particularly for new and urban beekeepers, while supporting experienced beekeepers and the continued development of strong local programs. Advancing thoughtful conversations around queen breeding, genetics, colony health, and sustainable beekeeping is crucial. As a Baltimore City representative, I bring an urban perspective to the board while actively working to connect city beekeepers with the statewide community. Most importantly, I want to provide collaborative, practical leadership that turns good ideas into meaningful results for MSBA members.

Second VP of Calvert County

Brett Caloia (Candidate for Second VP of Calvert County)

About the candidate

Hello. I have served as Second VP for Calvert for the past year. I am also an active member of the ASMB.

Why this position

Provide a liaison between the state association and beekeepers of Calvert county.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I'm a hobbyist beekeeper who is looking to expand into honey sales. I would like to see more community among beekeepers in the county.

Hoped-for accomplishments

To continue to serve a conduit of information in both directions between the county's beekeepers and the state association.

Second VP of Caroline County

No candidates yet. If you live in Caroline County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of Carroll County

Jenny Bumgardner (Candidate for Second VP of Carroll County)

About the candidate

I am the current MSBA 2nd Vice President for Carroll County and a proud lifetime member of the Maryland State Beekeepers Association. As an active second‑year beekeeper, I recently completed the Journeyman Beekeeper program, which deepened both my knowledge and my appreciation for the beekeeping community. MSBA has been instrumental in my growth as a beekeeper, and I value the relationships, education, and support it provides. My connection to MSBA is rooted in gratitude, service, and a genuine desire to help strengthen our statewide beekeeping network.

Why this position

I believe that strong beekeeping begins with strong community, and MSBA plays a vital role in supporting beekeepers across Maryland. Alongside our local clubs, it is essential that we uplift and collaborate with our state association and our dedicated state inspectors. Serving as 2nd VP allows me to contribute to that mission by helping connect beekeepers with resources, education, and support. I want to continue fostering engagement, strengthening communication, and ensuring that Carroll County beekeepers feel represented and supported at the state level.

Experience, skills, or perspective

With 38 years of nursing experience and a background in clinical leadership and strategy, I bring a collaborative, organized, and service‑driven approach to the MSBA board. My work requires coordination with executive, legal, regulatory, financial, and technical teams to ensure quality outcomes—skills that translate directly to effective association leadership. I am committed to the well‑being of both beekeepers and bees, and I value clear communication, thoughtful problem‑solving, and evidence‑based decision‑making. My perspective blends professional leadership with genuine passion for beekeeping and community education.

Hoped-for accomplishments

During my term, I hope to strengthen engagement by encouraging beekeepers to participate in MSBA classes, attend meetings, and explore the many resources available on the MSBA website. Education is one of MSBA’s greatest strengths, and I want to help more beekeepers benefit from it. My goal is to help double new membership from last year by promoting connection, accessibility, and a welcoming environment for all beekeepers.

Second VP of Cecil County

Bradford Luff (Candidate for Second VP of Cecil County)

About the candidate

Beekeeper in Cecil County for 20 years and member of MSBA for 12 years. I am the Cecil County coordinator for Susquehanna Beekeepers Association.

Why this position

Promote beekeeping in Cecil County.

Experience, skills, or perspective

Beekeeper an mechanical engineer.

Hoped-for accomplishments

Get more Cecil County people involved with beekeeping

Second VP of Charles County

No candidates yet. If you live in Charles County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of Dorchester County

No candidates yet. If you live in Dorchester County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of Frederick County

Mike Raide (Candidate for Second VP of Frederick County)

About the candidate

Hello, I'm Mike Raide and I am alife member of MSBA, and have been a member since 2017.

Why this position

To make sure all Frederick County beekeepers are well represented at the state level.

Second VP of Garrett County

No candidates yet. If you live in Garrett County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of Harford County

Harry Dutcher (Candidate for Second VP of Harford County)

About the candidate

I have been keeping bees since 2003. Currently have 20 hives. Member of Susquehanna Beekeepers Association of Maryland. Member of the board-of-directors including president. Currently Harford County Coordinator managing outreach events.

Why this position

Communicate MSBA events to SBA of MD members.

Second VP of Howard County

Marian Iannuzzi (Candidate for Second VP of Howard County)

About the candidate

As an active beekeeper for over 30 years, life-long learner, and a life MSBA member, I have appreciated how MSBA has augmented my education and bee-related skills.

Why this position

I have enjoyed promoting MSBA to Howard County Beekeepers for the past 9 months as the current second VP of Howard County since Jan 2026. It is important to me to share how our state organization is active, relevant, and welcoming.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I am a good communicator and educator and look forward to board discussions. I raise concerns and perspectives shared with me by HCBA members to ensure the board has a more complete picture their views and better meet current and future needs.

Hoped-for accomplishments

I make no secret that I hope more Howard County beekeepers will come to MSBA meetings and join. I hope by continuing to share meeting summaries, folks can stay up-to-date with MSBA.

Second VP of Kent County

Maximilian de Arriz (Candidate for Second VP of Kent County)

About the candidate

I'm Max de Arriz, a beekeeper near Chestertown and Kent County's Second VP for the past year. I manage three productive hives and sell raw, local, seasonal honey by word of mouth and at UESBA club events. I'm currently taking MSBA's Journeyman course. As Second VP, I've cleaned up and managed our member email list, set up Square so the club can take payments at events, and worked with our president and treasurer on events and club management. I'm also a husband and father, and I run WoodySkew, a small woodworking business, with my wife. I like making things run smoothly so other people can enjoy the bees.

Why this position

MSBA and our local club taught me much of what I know about beekeeping, and I'd like to give back. I already handle behind-the-scenes work for the club and enjoy it. Serving as Second VP would let me contribute more formally, support our officers, and step in when needed. I also remember how much a welcoming, practical club matters to newer beekeepers, and I want Kent County to be a place where beginners feel supported and experienced keepers stay engaged.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I bring organization, communication, and a practical mindset. As an engineering manager, I lead a distributed team and turn complex problems into simple systems that work. I hold a master's in engineering project management, which carries over directly to planning club events. I founded and led the Eastern Shore SOLIDWORKS User Group for four and a half years, so I know what it takes to build a volunteer community. As a college instructor and online course author, I explain things clearly to newcomers. After a year as Second VP, I understand how our club runs and where I can help most. As a beekeeper, I trust what I see in the hive and verify claims before passing them along.

Hoped-for accomplishments

I'd like to make club participation easier and more useful: dependable member communication, smooth payments and logistics at events, and clear seasonal guidance suited to Kent County conditions. I'd also like to expand beginner-friendly presentations and resources for meetings and help newer members feel connected. Most of all, I want to support our officers and keep our club welcoming, well-organized, and focused on healthy bees.

Second VP of Montgomery County

Maureen Jais-Mick (Candidate for Second VP of Montgomery County)

About the candidate

I have been a member of MSBA for several years and previously served as a Director. I began keeping honey bees in 2013. Since 2020, I have managed the Montgomery County Beekeepers Association's learning apiary, which offers twice monthly hands on sessions for new beekeepers. The learning apiary participated in the Bee Informed Partnership's Sentinel Apiary Program, and joined it again in 2026, when the UMD Maryland Bee Lab restarted it. I coordinated MCBA's 2024 and 2025 Hands On Beekeeping, an 8-months long class that provided a season of hands on and online learning. I utilize organic management techniques and thermal mite treatments. I have served MCBA as Vice President and Secretary, as well as Learning Apiary Manager.

Why this position

Be a resource for Maryland beekeepers and get to know more them and their associations.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I have previously served as a Director of MSBA and have been on the Board and Executive Committee of Montgomery County Beekeepers Association, as well as Manager of the MCBA Learning Apiary.

Hoped-for accomplishments

Represent Montgomery County to other Maryland beekeepers.

Second VP of Prince George's County

Mike Mehalick (Candidate for Second VP of Prince George's County)

About the candidate

I am a Life Member of MSBA. Our family maintains honey bee colonies near our home and at several apiaries in Prince George's County agricultural settings.

Second VP of Queen Anne's County

Terri Sprouse (Candidate for Second VP of Queen Anne's County)

About the candidate

I have lived on Kent Island for the past 12 years. Now that my husband and I have retired, we have taken up traveling (we just completed visiting all 50 states) and hobbies that we weren't able to enjoy when we were employed. I have been a beekeeper for 4 years, some years more successful than others, but every year I feel like I'm getting better at it. I am a member of the Wye River Beekeepers Association, served as Vice-President for 2 years, and am currently the Treasurer. I stepped up in April to fill the vacancy for the Second VP of Queen Anne's County and would like to continue serving in this capacity

Why this position

The more I learn, the better my bees do.

Experience, skills, or perspective

My goal as a beekeeper is to be in the category of hobbyist. As much as I appreciate and admire those beekeepers who do this as a career, a sideline, and/or become master beekeepers, I would like to be a voice at the state level to represent those like me, who want to be hobbyists.

Second VP of Somerset County

No candidates yet. If you live in Somerset County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of St. Mary's County

No candidates yet. If you live in St. Mary's County, CLICK HERE to nominate yourself.

Second VP of Talbot County

Andrea Nashold (Candidate for Second VP of Talbot County)

About the candidate

Completed MSU Heroes to Hives course.
Member MSBA and Wye River Beekeepers.

Second VP of Washington County

Scott Edie (Candidate for Second VP of Washington County)

About the candidate

I have been the WCBA representive for 3 years. Currently my main efforts have been identifying and arranging for speakers for group in order to bring more members to the club.

Second VP of Wicomico County

Lauren Pascarella (Candidate for Second VP of Wicomico County)

About the candidate

I am Lauren Pascarella, an active beekeeper, educator, and longtime advocate for honeybees and pollinators on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. I currently serve as the MSBA Second Vice President representing Wicomico County and have held this position for the past two years. I am also involved with the Lower Eastern Shore Beekeepers Association, where I focus on education, outreach, and connecting new and experienced beekeepers. Through MSBA, I have enjoyed working with beekeepers and associations, learning from the diverse perspectives and experiences within our beekeeping community.

Why this position

I would like to continue serving as Second Vice President because I believe in the value of having strong county representation within MSBA and maintaining a connection between local beekeepers and the state organization. After two years in this position, I have a better understanding of the role and how I can contribute effectively. I would like the opportunity to build on that experience, continue supporting Maryland’s beekeepers, and help strengthen communication, education, and participation among local associations and their members.

Experience, skills, or perspective

I bring hands-on beekeeping experience, association leadership, education, public outreach, and a strong connection to beekeepers at the local level. Through my work with the Lower Eastern Shore Beekeepers Association, I have experience organizing educational opportunities, engaging new beekeepers, promoting pollinator awareness, and helping members navigate the challenges of beekeeping. I also bring the perspective of an active county association leader who understands the importance of communication between local clubs and MSBA. My two years serving on the MSBA board have also given me valuable insight into the organization and its members.

Hoped-for accomplishments

I hope to continue strengthening the connection between MSBA and local beekeeping associations. I would also like to encourage greater participation from newer beekeepers and help make MSBA a welcoming resource for beekeepers at every experience level. I hope to support educational programs, increase communication between associations, and continue promoting the importance of honeybees and native pollinators. Most importantly, I would like to build on the relationships and experience I have gained during my first two years of service and continue being a dependable representative for Wicomico County.

Second VP of Worcester County

Thom Babcock (Candidate for Second VP of Worcester County)

About the candidate

Hello my name is Tom Babcock. I will list some of my Bee background. University of Montanna Master Beekeeper 2016. EAS Master Beekeeper 2023. University of Md. Master Gardner 2025. Graduate of Dr. Delaneys UD Queen rearing program. Graduate of Dr. Robyn Underwoods D.U.D.E. Deep Understanding of Drone Education. Lifetime member EAS. Lifetime member MSBA. Member Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia State Associations. Active club member Lower Eastern Shore Beekeepers, Beekeepers Guild of Eastern Shore Virginia, Sussex County Delaware Association, Wye River Association. Part time teacher of Bee keeping beginner and advanced level classes at local college.

Why this position

To promote Pollinators and Honeybees on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Focused on sound Science based Best Practices. Encourage more Beekeepers to join and get the benefits from MSBA.

Experience, skills, or perspective

My background as a Service mgr. brings with it a Team Builder strategy of working together and building bridges.Working together with all levels of education and back grounds. Working within budgets and organizational skills leading many team projects on tiome.

Hoped-for accomplishments

Promote the Art and Science of Beekeeping in a positive way. Using Science backed information and showing others how and where to find correct Science based information and discover the "Art" side of Bee keeping which many do not understand. . Work with youth and the public to promote Honeybees. Continue to specialize with youth groups and High Schools as a senior advisor to FFA (Future Farmers of America) at Worcester Countys vocational FFA high school program with live Honeybee colonies. Also Salisbury Md. Zoo volunteer Beekeeper for their live exhibit of Honeybee colonies conducting free monthly bee discussions to Home School and Public school groups.

Second VP of Washington, DC

John Mahaffie (Candidate for Second VP of Washington, DC)

About the candidate

I am a multi-year member of MSBA and have been fortunate to be at a number of the Association's meetings. I have seen too that the Association makes a difference to beekeepers across our region and beyond.

Why this position

I'd like to contribute to that good work where I can. I was a part of the team when EAS was in Maryland, and enjoyed working with the Maryland folks who made it all happen. It would be great to join in further collaboration and to contribute my abilities where I can.

Experience, skills, or perspective

While I've not kept bees that long (6 years), I am involved with both Montgomery County's club, as a Board member, and with several of its initiatives, and DCBA, also as a Board member.

I have comprehensive experience in Board service with non-profits, and as a consultant to non-profits, trade, and professional associations. That has included work on governance, ensuring Board health and development in service of membership and mission. My professional career was as a futurist, consulting with organizations about anticipating and reacting to, or forging change. I am also a capable writer and communicator.

Hoped-for accomplishments

I'd like to represent the interests of DC beekeepers with MSBA, while also contributing anywhere I can to the overall work of the Association.