According to a February 12, 2026 press release from Leadership Maryland, the organization has officially announced its 2026 Executive Class naming 53 accomplished business and community leaders from across the state to participate in its prestigious eight-month professional development program. Among those selected is Thomas Luginbill, Executive Director for The Pinkney Innovation Complex for Science and Technology (PIC MC) at Montgomery College – a recognition that underscores his leadership and impact within Maryland’s workforce and higher education landscape.
Luginbill was chosen through a highly competitive selection process designed to identify senior-level executives who demonstrate not only significant professional achievement, but also a deep commitment to strengthening Maryland’s communities. His inclusion in the Executive Program’s 33rd class reflects both his leadership at Montgomery College and his dedication to advancing regional economic and workforce development.
The Executive Program runs from April through December and includes five two-day sessions held across Maryland’s key geographic regions. Participants engage directly with more than 100 experts representing the state’s business, government, education, and nonprofit sectors. Sessions focus on critical issues including economic development, education, health and human services, criminal justice, environmental sustainability, and multiculturalism and diversity.
“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.”
The Class of 2026 represents a cross-section of the state’s leadership across industries and regions. Leaders from organizations such as Kaiser Permanente, Maryland Transportation Authority, Fulton Bank, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, and TEDCO were also selected, highlighting the program’s broad representation of Maryland’s public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Leadership Maryland’s Executive Program is open to senior-level executives with demonstrated leadership accomplishments in their careers and/or communities. Ideal participants share a strong desire to better understand Maryland’s most pressing challenges and to serve as catalysts for positive change within their organizations and across the state.
Established in 1992, Leadership Maryland has built a powerful alumni network of leaders spanning industries and regions statewide. Through its flagship Executive Program and Emerging Leader Program, the organization continues to equip Maryland’s leaders with the knowledge, perspective, and connections needed to influence meaningful progress.
About Leadership Maryland
Leadership Maryland is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to building a better Maryland by harnessing the strength of its business and community leaders. Each year, up to 53 senior-level executives are selected for its Executive Program, an immersive eight-month experience focused on Maryland’s most vital social, economic, and environmental issues.
