Annapolis (July 10, 2007) - Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold announced today that he has hired Marina Harrison, a Severn native, as a Special Assistant to the County Executive with responsibilities that include communications, media, and policy. Marina began her position on July 9 and will have a multitude of responsibilities including handling media relations, representing the County Executive in the community, and producing the weekly Channel 98 TV show Anne Arundel County Week-in-Review. "Ms. Harrison’s extensive background in communications and policy make this appointment an exciting addition to my staff," said County Executive Leopold. "Her experience will be invaluable in helping to facilitate communication with the public through various media." "I am looking forward to working directly for a county and community that nurtured my success, and hope to continue to inspire others to believe in Anne Arundel County," Marina said. A graduate of Meade Senior High School and former Anne Arundel County Student Board Member (1998-1999) Marina is no stranger to Anne Arundel County. An advocate for quality public education, Marina took her message to the Miss America stage in Atlantic City as Miss Maryland 2003 and became the 3rd-runner up to Miss America. Also a former Miss Maryland USA, Marina is the only Maryland woman to have competed in both the nationally-televised Miss America and Miss USA competitions. Marina’s professional government experience includes U.S. Department of State, Maryland State Department of Education, and the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State. Marina has received numerous awards for her motivational presentations to more than 250,000 students across the nation including the Carson Scholars Sonja Education Award from Pediatric Neurosurgeon Benjamin Carson. | 
