Local Councilmember Kate Stewart was recently honored with the Elizabeth and David Scull Metropolitan Public Service Award, presented by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) on Wednesday. The award is COG’s most prestigious accolade, and Stewart was recognized for her work in fostering regional collaboration and addressing issues such as housing, homelessness, transportation, climate change, and racial inequities, as reported by Montgomery County’s official website.
Stewart, who served as COG’s Board Chair in 2023 and has been a board member since 2016, was recognized during the ceremony for her commitment to consensus-building and public service, especially as COG navigates what she described as cruel and capricious federal-level decisions. As she concluded her term as Council president, a statement from Montgomery County’s official website noted her emphasis on remaining united in service and support for residents across the region.
The award, which takes its name from former Montgomery County Councilmembers Elizabeth and David Scull, has previously been awarded to notable figures such as U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker III. COG Board of Directors Chair Rodney Lusk praised Stewart’s "commitment to help all residents of our region," while Washington, D.C. Ward 6 Councilmember and COG Vice Chair Charles Allen lauded her for leading boldly and working to advance the financial stability and services of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and the region's transit network, in a statement to Montgomery County's official website.
Stewart's recognition also came with acclaims from Frederick County Executive and COG Committee Member Jessica Fitzwater, who calls Stewart a "dynamic public servant" and extols her innovative approach to the region's challenges; she deliberately underscored Stewart’s contributions to the wellbeing of the region, in her contributions to tackle deep-seated issues with innovative solutions and having a zealous commitment to serve. To know more about the Scull Award and its significance to the region, readers can find additional information on Montgomery County's official website.
