Since 2012, the Community Foundation of Howard County has celebrated change makers in Howard County with its Philanthropist of the Year Award. The honor is presented each year to an individual or family, as well as to a business or organization, that has significantly impacted our community through its philanthropic investments.
The intent of the Philanthropist of the Year Award is to shine a light on the extraordinary generosity and leadership of philanthropists in Howard County and to recognize outstanding individuals and/or families along with businesses and/or organizations who have shown exceptional leadership in the areas of personal and corporate philanthropy and who, through their giving, have made a remarkable difference in bringing about a positive change in our community.
In keeping with our mission of inspiring life-long giving and connecting people, places and organizations to worthy causes across Howard County and beyond, we hope the recipients will serve to inspire and challenge others to think about how they can have a lasting impact on Howard County’s future through their own philanthropy.
Awardees must have demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy through giving their time, talent and treasure to make a substantial impact in Howard County. This award primarily seeks to recognize and encourage significant charitable giving to support nonprofit organizations in our community that provide human services, arts and culture, civic, and/or educational programs and services.
Individual/Family Award Recipients
2024: Greg & Roberta Kahlert (pictured above)
2023: Dr. Carlessia Hussein
2022: Dr. Lillian Bauder
2017: Bob & Bach Jeffrey
2016: Fred & Mary Agnes Lewis
2015: Vivian “Millie” Bailey
2014: Ed & Fern Hamel
2013: The Doetsch Family
2012: The Lundy Family
NOMINATE an Individual or Family for 2025 Philanthropist of the Year
Organization/Company Award Recipients
2024: The Kahlert Foundation (pictured below)
2023: Howard Hughes Holdings, Inc.
2022: M&T Bank
2017: Iron Bridge Wine Company
2016: Security Development Corporation
2015: Orchard Development/Armiger Management
2014: Howard Bank
2013: Carney, Kelehan, Bresler, Bennett & Scherr
2012: Harkins Builders
NOMINATE an Organization or Business for 2025 Philanthropist of the Year
