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Board

Maryland Association of Social Services Boards

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Board President

Melissa Teitelbaum

Melissa Teitelbaum, an Occupational Therapist by profession, lives with her loved ones in Howard County. Her journey with the Howard County Board of Social Services began in 2019, where she now presides as Chair. In her trajectory with MASSB, she took on the role of Secretary in 2021 and ascended to Board Vice President the following year. A Towson University alumna, she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees there and has since accumulated over 15 years of professional experience in the greater Baltimore region. Teitelbaum takes pride in her work with families, particularly those with children who have developmental challenges such as autism spectrum disorder. She has a vested interest in the transitions of young adults as they navigate from the educational system into independent living. Her goal is to leverage her expertise to aid both Boards in enhancing the support provided to community members.

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Board Secretary

Dr. Shawn Ashworth

Shawn Ashworth is distinguished by her deliberate approach, fervent dedication, and optimistic outlook. Her career as an educator spans many years, with experience in numerous leadership capacities within Anne Arundel County Public Schools, where she presently holds the position of Program Specialist. As a devoted mother to two, she actively engages in community service, both through her charitable organization, Food 4 Thought Community Outreach Services, Inc., and her involvement with multiple County Boards. Her decisions and actions are guided by her deep spiritual faith and ethical principles. Dr. Ashworth is eager to contribute to the community, driven by her hopeful stance on effecting positive change for the future.

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Board Treasurer

Dr. Renita Alexander

Dr. Renita Alexander is a distinguished educational leader, community advocate, and faith-based servant residing in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. With over 30 years of experience in education, including nearly two decades as an elementary school principal in Prince George's County Public Schools, Dr. Alexander brings a wealth of expertise to her roles. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, a Master’s in Special Education from Bowie State University, and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Morgan State University. After retiring from her principalship, Dr. Alexander transitioned into a multi-faceted career that spans community development, leadership in faith-based organizations, and roles in social services. She currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Calvert County Democratic Central Committee and the Vice Chair of the Calvert Library Foundation Board, where she actively works to support and uplift her community. Dr. Alexander leads the monthly Ministry Leadership activities in her faith community at Calvert County Baptist Church, fostering unity and growth among ministry leaders. Her servant-hearted leadership style is marked by a commitment to equality, inclusion, and the empowerment of others. In addition to her community roles, Dr. Alexander teaches a weekly PreventT2 Diabetes class for the Calvert Health Department, equipping participants with the tools to manage and prevent diabetes. She also serves as a Mediator for the Calvert Mediation Center, promoting peaceful resolutions within her community. Dr. Alexander is an accomplished Notary Public and certified Lifestyle Coach dedicated to holistic well-being and community enrichment. She continues to teach and mentor others, guiding the next generation of leaders through her roles as an educator, counselor, and mentor. Driven by compassion and a steadfast commitment to service, Dr. Renita Alexander is a transformative leader, making an indelible impact across the many communities she serves.

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