b'Emerging Leader Program 1st Class ProfilesDawit Demissie PediatricianRegion: Eastern Dawit, a resident of Fruitland, earned a BS in General Biology and a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland College Park, an MD from the University of Missouri, an MBA from Indiana University, and an MS in Health SciencesBiomedical Informatics from George Washington University. He is active with the Eastern Shore Ethiopian/Eritrean Community Association, St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, and is an adjunct instructor in the UMES Physician Assistant Program. Dawit enjoys soccer, DIY home renovations, firewood processing, and international travel with his wife.Ashleigh Diaz Sustainability ManagerCity of BowieRegion: Capital Ashleigh, a resident of Glen Burnie, earned a BS in Anthropology and Sociology from Towson University and an MPS in Marine Affairs and Policy from the University of Miamis Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. She is active with the Anne Arundel County Citizens Environmental Commission, the University of Miami, and the MD Clean Energy Center Advisory Council. Ashleigh is a certified yoga instructor and enjoys biking, jogging, dance, yoga, gardening, and spending time with her three children and two dogs. John EnglehartManager, Human ResourcesEaston UtilitiesRegion: Eastern John, a resident of Easton, earned a BS in Management Studies/Human Resource Management and a masters in Distance Education from the University of Maryland Global Campus. He is active with the Waves of Glory Ministries, the Crossfire Community Church, the Tidewater Rotary, and the Cub Scouts. John enjoys time with his two young children, watching SpongeBob, playing Legos, and playing softball. Manny Essien AssociateBFG Financial AdvisorsRegion: CentralManny, a resident of Baltimore, studied Business Administration with a concentration in Finance at Stevenson University and holds a CFP Certification. He is active with Stevenson University, Stevenson University Football, and the Special Olympics. Manny enjoys running through Baltimore, recently completing a marathon, and learning about Baltimores history. Doria Fleisher Community Engagement CoordinatorCharles County GovernmentRegion: Southern Doria, a resident of Pomfret, earned a BA in Psychology with completion of the MSDE Elementary Educa-tion Program with a focus in special education from St. Marys College of Maryland. She is active as a facilitator for Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Wellbeing; a trainer of CPR/First Aid for the Charles County Volunteer Rescue Squad; and an instructor and mentor through PATH, Intl. Doria enjoys spending time connecting humans and animals in the community through her work as a therapeu-tic riding instructor and a foster for a local animal rescue.30 Leadership Maryland 2024'