Fello, Senior Vice President of Community Development and Mid-Shore resident one of 53 selected for statewide professional development program

MARYLAND (2.13.26) – Leadership Maryland announced yesterday that Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development at Fello, has been chosen to participate in the Executive Program as a member of the Class of 2026.

Benincasa is one of 53 individuals chosen for the Leadership Maryland Executive Program’s 33rd class, who will complete the eight-month, hands-on learning program focused on the state’s most vital issues. The program will run from April to December, and include five, two-day sessions focused on Maryland’s five main geographic regions and the most vital issues impacting economic development, education, health and human services, criminal justice, the environment, and multi-culturalism/diversity across the state. More than 100 experts representing Maryland’s business, government, education, and non-profit communities will serve as panelists and guest speakers.

“Welcoming a new cohort to our flagship Executive Program is always a highlight of our year, and the Class of 2026 is truly exceptional,” said David Fike ’16 (LM), president and CEO of Leadership Maryland. “Selection for this program is incredibly competitive, and these leaders stood out not just for what they’ve already achieved, but for their genuine commitment to shaping a better future for Maryland. We can’t wait to see how they challenge each other and grow together to drive meaningful change across our state.”

Leadership Maryland’s flagship Executive Program is open to senior-level executives with significant achievements in either their careers and/or their communities. Ideal Leadership Maryland members have a desire to learn more about Maryland’s most critical issues and a personal commitment to be a force for positive change in their organizations, their communities, and their state. For more information about Leadership Maryland, please visit leadershipmd.org, call 410-841-2101 or email info@leadershipmd.org.

About Leadership Maryland Leadership Maryland is a statewide nonprofit offering professional development programs dedicated to building a better Maryland by harnessing the strength of its business and community leaders. Established in 1992, Leadership Maryland’s Executive Program selects as many as 53 diverse and accomplished senior-level leaders from Maryland’s public and private sectors each year to come together as a class for an eight-month learning program focused on the state’s most vital social, economic and environmental issues. And new in 2024, Leadership Maryland’s Emerging Leader Program brings together a class of 30-40 of the state’s

LINTHICUM, Md. (January 27, 2026) – Fello, a Maryland-based nonprofit supporting people with disabilities statewide, today announced the expansion of its comprehensive services into Howard County, furthering its mission to meet the evolving needs of people with disabilities and their families across Maryland.

While this official expansion into Howard County is new, Fello’s connection to the county spans decades. Over the past 20 years, Fello has supported hundreds of Howard County residents through Self-Directed Services. Since 2022, Fello Communities has owned and operated an affordable housing unit in the county. Similarly, Fello’s Behavioral Health team has provided support to Howard County residents there as needs have arisen over the last three years.

As Fello celebrates 65 years of creating community across Maryland, this expansion reflects both Fello’s deep roots and its future vision.

Howard County has a growing population of people seeking expanded service options. Fello brings decades of experience creating person-centered supports, housing, and behavioral health services to meet residents’ needs.

“We hear regularly from people in Howard County who are interested in learning more about our services,” said Matt Morgan, Chief Program Officer. “Being able to expand our work there opens new possibilities for people who are ready for what’s next.”

“Expanding our impact in Howard County is a meaningful way to honor the spirit of our founders while continuing to meet the evolving needs of people across Maryland,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “Our goal is to grow thoughtfully and in partnership with the community. We’ll continue listening and responding in real-time to the needs of our community.”