Nominations Open for The Baltimore Sun’s Business and Civic Hall of Fame

The Baltimore Sun has officially opened nominations for its 2026 Business and Civic Hall of Fame, seeking to honor individuals whose contributions have significantly improved Maryland communities. This year marks the 11th induction into the Hall of Fame, aimed at recognizing leaders from various fields such as business, government, education, science, health, civic engagement, and the arts.

Call for Nominations

The publication invites community members to submit nominations by January 31, 2026. Interested individuals can send their recommendations to [email protected], ensuring to include “Hall of Fame” in the subject line. The body of the email should provide a brief description of the nominee’s achievements and background, along with reasons for their nomination.

The selection process will involve a combination of reader suggestions and evaluations by a committee comprising members of The Sun’s executive team, editorial board, and a panel of prominent community leaders. The final class of inductees will be announced in March 2026.

In June, The Baltimore Sun will publish a special section highlighting the honorees’ lives and achievements, alongside a public event to celebrate their contributions to society.

Last Year’s Honorees

For reference, the previous class of inductees included notable figures such as Sandra and Malcolm Berman, recognized for their extensive philanthropy in healthcare and the arts. Their support extended to organizations like the Greater Baltimore Medical Center and the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center.

Maria Broom, an actress known for her roles in “The Wire” and “The Corner,” was also honored. Broom has made significant impacts as a movement instructor at the Baltimore School for the Arts and as a host for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

Other notable inductees included George Bunting, who served as CEO of the Noxell Corporation and is known for his leadership at the Abell Foundation; Scott Dorsey, chairman and CEO of Merritt Companies, who has actively promoted economic development in Maryland; and Rhea Feikin, a television personality and advocate for the arts.

The Hall of Fame also recognized William McCarthy, who expanded programs at Catholic Charities of Baltimore; Diana Gribbon Motz, a trailblazing judge on the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals; and Alan Rifkin, a prominent sports lawyer and educator.

Additional honorees included George A. Roche, former chairman and CEO of T. Rowe Price; Thomas Scalea, a respected trauma physician; Stuart Simms, former state’s attorney; and Walter Scott Thomas Sr., a pastor whose leadership transformed the New Psalmist Baptist Church.

The Baltimore Sun editorial team encourages the community to recognize those whose dedication and achievements continue to inspire others. By submitting nominations, individuals play a vital role in celebrating the impactful lives of Maryland’s leaders.