The Harford County Education Foundation officially kicked off its annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive. Donations will be accepted through Sept. 12.

“Starting school without essential tools — like pencils, calculators or folders — puts students at an unfair disadvantage,” Deb Merlock, president of the Education Foundation, said in a news release. “By making sure every child walks into the classroom ready, we’re strengthening their self-esteem, learning experience and future success.”

Contributions to the campaign stock the Tools for Schools Resource Center, where teachers “shop” for free throughout the school year. Requested items include pencils, pens, highlighters, loose-leaf paper, binders, glue sticks, USB drives, hand sanitizer and backpacks.

Those who choose to participate can drop items off at any of the designated drop-off locations, support virtually through Amazon, Walmart or Target registries or send monetary gifts through the mail or via the Harford Education Foundation’s website.

“When our community steps up, we’re not just filling backpacks — we’re fueling futures,” said Jillian Lader, chair of the Harford County Education Foundation. “A few simple items can shape a child’s academic path and strengthen our county’s future workforce and civic leaders.”

Drop-off locations include: Bel Air Orthodontics, Harford County Public Library, Hopewell United Methodist Church, The Y in Central Maryland – Abingdon and We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym – Forest Hill.

For a full list of drop-off locations and volunteer opportunities go to harfordeducation.org.

University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health Appoints New President

The University of Maryland Medical Systems has announced the appointment of Aaron Rabinowitz as president of the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health.

Rabinowitz served as general counsel at UM UCH from 2013 to 2019. Most recently, he served as senior vice president and general counsel for UMMS where he provided guidance on governance, regulatory matters and system integration.

“This is a moment of great pride and gratitude for me,” Rabinowitz said in a news release. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team members to continue advancing health and wellness for the communities we serve.”

Rabinowitz succeeds Elizabeth Wise who had been the president and chief executive officer since 2022.

Mohan Suntha, president and CEO of UMMS, described Rabinowitz as a thoughtful and mission-driven leader.

“His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the communities we serve,” Suntha said in the release.

Ladew Topiary Gardens honors Leigh Symington Griswold

Ladew Topiary Gardens has named the position of Director of Horticulture and Facilities in honor of founder Leith Symington Griswold, who died in 2013.

In the 1960s, Harvey Ladew, original owner of what was then called Pleasant Valley Farm, sought to preserve his garden. Griswold, a leader in conservation, stepped up and rallied a group of women and friends who ultimately founded Ladew Topiary Gardens.

“Leith had an extraordinary connection to these gardens and was truly the driving force behind saving Ladew,” said Emily Emerick, the Anne and Robert Kinsley Executive Director of the garden, in a news release. “Without her tenacity and belief in the power of this place, it simply wouldn’t exist as we know it today.”

Griswold’s support shaped the future of philanthropy at Ladew and made it possible for the garden to thrive, Emerick said. Griswold served as board chair when Harvey Ladew died and played a role in launching the Patrons Circles, a key of the garden’s fundraising efforts.

Adrienne Gettman currently holds the title of Director of Horticulture and Facilities at Ladew.

“I am honored to hold a position that now bears Leith Griswold’s name as her influence on Ladew is still felt today,” Gettman said in the news release. “Her vision and dedication inspire every decision we make in preserving and enhancing this historic landscape.”

First Harford Square Association hosts Field Day

The First Harford Square Association is hosting a Field Day for the community on Saturday, at 1492 Harford Square Drive in Edgewood.

The outdoors event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature tug of war, kick ball, and a potato sack race. In addition to family-friendly games, there will be food trucks, health screenings and drive safe activities to educate the community.

Attendees should bring their own lawn chairs, blankets and tents.

Have a news tip? Contact Shaela Foster at sfoster@baltsun.com or 443-826-5894.