State Sen. Ariana Kelly (D-16) accepted “a once in a lifetime opportunity” to become the executive director of the Maryland Commission for Women.
Kelly has been a delegate and senator for the past 14 years, representing the areas of Bethesda, North Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac.
She will start in her new position on May 6. It is a merit position for which she interviewed.
Kelly told MCM she hopes to “reinvigorate the commission” and its 25 members from across the state.
Her major area of focus will be achieving economic security for families and obtaining wage transparency so that job seekers will know what the job pays. She currently has worked for that in Annapolis, and a wage transparency bill passed both houses this session.
“This is my dream job. While it is difficult to leave the legislative role I love so much, I know this is the right choice,” she wrote in a letter posted on social media.
“There is much work to be done to advance women and families in Maryland,” Kelly wrote. “While women’s rights are being rolled back across the country, Maryland can show strong leadership, and serve as a model for supporting women and families.”
Delegate Marc Korman, who also represents District 16, praised Kelly for her passion, adding that she advocates for “women’s rights in all forms, not just reproductive choice or healthcare but for a women’s place in our economy and society as well.”
When asked who she would like to succeed her in the senate, Kelly immediately called Del. Sara Love (D-16) “an excellent choice,” calling her “my preference.”
Exciting announcement! I'll be joining the Moore Miller Administration on May 6th as the Executive Director of the Commission for Women. While it is so hard to say goodbye to the legislature, this is my dream job! Read more in my message: https://t.co/hHUqSgDaUq pic.twitter.com/mEzIaiuZj2
— Ariana Kelly (@SenArianaKelly) March 21, 2024
A note about @SenArianaKelly pic.twitter.com/8NC5ZHRhMW
— Marc Korman (@mkorman) March 21, 2024
