Courtesy Photo
Dr. Kam Ghaffarian posing with graduate.
Space Entrepreneur and Commencement Speaker Dr. Kam Ghaffarian Surprises Capitol Technology University Graduates With Generous “Gold Envelope” Gift
By PRESS OFFICER
Capitol Technology University
LAUREL, Md. (May 4, 2026)—Capitol Technology University’s graduating Class of 2026 went home with more than a diploma on Saturday, May 2. Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Capitol Tech alumnus Dr. Kam Ghaffarian marked this year’s Commencement ceremony with not only an inspiring address to the graduates, but by handing out gold envelopes with a $1,500 cash gift inside to celebrate their academic success.
When Dr. Ghaffarian immigrated to the U.S. to pursue his dreams, his uncle loaned him a few hundred dollars to help him accomplish his dreams. That seed funding helped launch his remarkable journey to success.
“I want every graduate to leave today knowing that someone believes in them and in their potential. I was lucky to have people who believed in me, and it made all the difference. This gift is a token of that belief,” said Dr. Ghaffarian. “Today’s graduates are stepping into a civilization-scale moment, powered by technologies that are elevating everything we do and redefining what is possible. I hope this reminds them to think limitlessly, that they have the potential to create their own future, and to always pay it forward.”
Dr. Ghaffarian?is a two-time Capitol Tech?alumnus, having earned his BS in Electronics Engineering Technology in 1983 and PhD in Technology in 2022. Specializing in aerospace, disruptive technologies, and strategic business leadership, Dr.?Ghaffarian has launched multiple industry-leading firms, consistently pursuing his visionary passion to advance humanity and expand human knowledge. In 2026, he was named one of Forbes’ Top 250 America’s Greatest Innovators. Additionally, his company, Axion Space, was listed as one of TIME’s 10 Most Influential New Frontiers Companies, and X-energy was recently publicly listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.
Dr.?Ghaffarian is also passionate about philanthropy, creating the Limitless Space Institute to promote STEM education and research in interstellar space exploration. In this spirit, and in recognition of Capitol Tech’s next generation of pioneering STEM professionals, Dr. Ghaffarian expressed his desire to celebrate the 2026 Commencement with a special gift.
Through innovative degree programs, expert faculty, and partnerships that connect students to real-world opportunities, Capitol Technology University creates graduates who are ready to tackle ambitious careers in cutting-edge fields.
Capitol Tech has positioned itself as a leader for Maryland graduate salaries amongst other in-state colleges. The institution will be celebrating its centennial in 2027.
University officials expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Ghaffarian’s generous gesture, noting that it adds an extra layer of inspiration and delight to this meaningful milestone for the graduates.
“Graduations are a time of achievement, reflection, and great opportunity,” said Dr. Bradford Sims, President of Capitol Technology University. “Dr. Ghaffarian’s gift to our Class of 2026 is truly appreciated and will stand as a memorable and inspiring highlight of this milestone occasion.”
Capitol Technology University is a leading STEM university located in Laurel, MD near the vibrant DC metropolitan area. Ranked #1 in Maryland for graduate salaries at all degree levels, the university’s mission is to educate individuals for successful professional careers in STEM research, engineering, management, and business by providing relevant learning experiences. Through industry-expert faculty, technical skills development, and innovative partnerships, Capitol Tech fosters career advancement opportunities for the evolving global community.
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The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Selected as a Finalist for the 2026 National Gold Medal Award in Parks and Recreation Management
By PRESS OFFICER
M-NCPPC
RIVERDALE, Md. (May 4, 2026)—The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is selected as a finalist in the 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association.
The Gold Medal is among the highest honors in the park and recreation industry, recognizing outstanding management and service. M-NCPPC, which includes the Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County and Montgomery Parks, is a six-time gold medal recipient. The agency earned this prestigious award in 1973, 1977, 1983, 1984, 2003, and 2015, and was also named a finalist in 2023 and 2025.
“We’re the destination for the nation, and being named a finalist is a testament to our world-class parks and recreation,” said Darryl Barnes, chairman of M-NCPPC, Prince George’s County Planning Board. “We take pride in delivering exceptional experiences for our residents and visitors and set the standard for parks and recreation nationwide.”
“This recognition highlights the dedication and commitment of the staff who serve our communities,” said Artie Harris, vice chair of the M-NCPPC and chair of the Montgomery County Planning Board. “I’m continually inspired by their work and the unique talents and passion they bring to our organization. This honor is truly well deserved.”
“Being named a finalist for the National Gold Medal Award reflects the dedication and passion of our staff, volunteers, and community partners. Together, they work to deliver exceptional parks and programs,” said Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks. “This recognition underscores our commitment to bringing people together, fostering inclusive park experiences, promoting healthy and active lifestyles, and responsibly caring for our natural resources.”
“This recognition reflects the essential programs and services provided by our staff, who work every day to deliver exceptional parks and recreation experiences to residents across Prince George’s County,” said Darius A. Stanton, director of the Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County. “As a six-time gold medal recipient, we are number one in the nation, and it’s an honor to be a finalist and elevate our community on the national stage.”
M-NCPPC is competing for the Gold Medal in the Class I category of park systems with a population of more than 400,001. Other park and recreation agencies competing for the Class I Gold Medal include Baltimore City Recreation and Parks, Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation, and Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation.
Founded in 1965, the Gold Medal Awards program honors communities in the United States that demonstrate excellence in parks and recreation through long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development, and agency recognition.
The Gold Medal recipient will be announced in September at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC)?is a bi-county agency empowered by the State of Maryland in 1927 to acquire, develop, maintain, and administer a regional system of parks within Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, and to provide land use planning for the physical development of Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. In addition, the agency gained responsibility for the public recreation program in Prince George’s County in 1970.?The governing body of M-NCPPC consists of 10 members, five appointed by Montgomery County and five by Prince George’s County. The commission coordinates and acts on matters of interest to both counties and meets at least once a month. The members of the commission from each county serve on separate county planning boards to facilitate, review, and administer the matters affecting their respective counties.
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PGCPS Leads the Nation in Green Schools
With 31 renewals and 10 new awardees, the district expands its state and nation-leading Green Schools network to 164 certified schools
By PRESS OFFICER
PGCPS
UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (May 5, 2026)—Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) continues to lead both Maryland and the nation in Green Schools, with 31 schools renewing their certification and 10 schools earning the designation for the first time. The district now boasts a record 164 certified Maryland Green Schools—the highest total of any district in Maryland, which itself has more Green Schools than any other state in the country.
While there is no single national designation or ranking system for Green Schools, Maryland’s nationally recognized program—administered by the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE)—includes more participating schools than any other state. As the top district within that leading state program, PGCPS stands as the nation’s leader in Green Schools participation.
“Prince George’s County Public Schools’ continued leadership as the #1 district in the nation for Maryland Green Schools reflects more than recognition—it reflects a long-standing commitment to action,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph. “For years, we have led Maryland in environmental education, and today that leadership stands on a national stage. Through our Climate Change Action Plan, sustainability is not an add-on in PGCPS, it is embedded in the daily learning experience of our students. From classroom instruction to school-wide practices, we are ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn in environments that model responsibility, resilience, and stewardship. This is how we prepare young people not only to understand the world they inherit, but to lead its transformation.”
The William S. Schmidt Outdoor Education Center, home to the district’s environmental education program, continues to lead this work by supporting schools and educators with year-round programming and sustainability initiatives.
“PGCPS stands out across Maryland for embedding sustainable practices into school culture,” said James Roberson, Supervisor at the Schmidt Center. “Students and teachers go beyond learning about environmental challenges—they actively develop and implement solutions within their schools and communities. The Maryland Green School program provides a powerful framework to support this work.”
Schools Earning New Certification (10)
Andrew Jackson Academy; Chesapeake Math and IT Academy South Elementary; Fort Foote Elementary; Glenarden Woods Elementary; Gwynn Park Middle; International High School at Langley Park; Online Campus; Overlook Spanish Immersion School; Sonia Sotomayor Middle; William Wirt Middle
Schools Earning Recertification (25)
• High Schools: International High School at Largo; Northwestern; Surrattsville
• K–8/Middle Schools: Benjamin Stoddert; Thurgood Marshall
• Elementary Schools: Apple Grove; Carole Highlands; Chillum; Flintstone; Gaywood; Glassmanor; Greenbelt; James H. Harrison; Melwood; Northview; Oxon Hill; Perrywood; Samuel Chase; Suitland; Templeton; Tulip Grove; Woodmore; Yorktown
• Specialty Schools: C. Elizabeth Rieg Regional School; Imagine Foundations at Leeland PCS
Schools Achieving Sustainable Status (6)
Schools must renew certification every four years to maintain Maryland Green School status. This year, three schools reached Sustainable Silver Status (maintaining certification for six consecutive application cycles) and three schools reached Sustainable Status (maintaining certification for at least four application cycles):
• Sustainable Silver: High Point High School (22 years)
• Sustainable Silver: John Hanson Montessori (22 years)
• Sustainable Silver: Scotchtown Hills Elementary School (21 years)
• Sustainable: Baden Elementary (14 years)
• Sustainable: Charles Herbert Flowers High School (14 years)
• Sustainable: Kenilworth Elementary (14 years)
Schools will be recognized at the MAEOE Annual Maryland Green Schools Youth Summit on Thursday, May 28, at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. The event includes award ceremonies, youth leadership activities, a green careers fair, and an environmental literacy showcase.
Sponsored by MAEOE, the Maryland Green Schools program is among the most rigorous environmental education initiatives in the nation. With 702 participating schools, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, environmental literacy, and sustainable practices through eight comprehensive criteria areas in a non-competitive application process.???????
Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), one of the nation’s 20th largest school districts, has 201 schools and centers, more than 133,000 students and nearly 20,000 employees. The school system serves a diverse student population from urban, suburban and rural communities located in the Washington, DC suburbs. PGCPS is nationally recognized for college and career-readiness programs that provide students with unique learning opportunities, including dual enrollment and language immersion.
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Q&A With Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker Jr.
Coker said in Addition to the Sphere, the State Is Working to Attract and Retain small and medium-sized businesses. Capital News Service talked with Coker about the Sphere, goals for the agency and the impact of federal layoffs.
By IRIT SKULNIK
Capital News Service
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (May 5, 2026)—Maryland’s Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker Jr. said Sphere Entertainment Co.’s decision to build a second U.S. location in Prince George’s County shows that companies want to invest in the state.
Gov. Wes Moore announced in January that Sphere Entertainment will build a smaller version of its Las Vegas venue at the National Harbor. Coker said he expects the event space to open within the next four years and generate more than $1 billion for the state.
“Just imagine when people are landing in Washington, D.C. if you will, they’re going to see that Sphere sitting on the hilltop in Prince George’s County,’’ Coker said. “That is big time.”
Capital News Service talked with Coker about the Sphere, legislative wins and goals for the commerce agency. He also discussed key issues in Maryland, including the pros and cons of data centers and the impact of federal layoffs.
The interview with Coker has been shortened for brevity and clarity.
Q: What were some of the wins coming out of Maryland’s legislative session?
A: Biggest wins, not just for Maryland businesses, but for our residents—no tax increases, which is a big plus. The budget was balanced and not on the back of businesses or our residents, so that was a huge win for us.
Q: What were some of your priorities for the legislative session?
A: Support for tourism and the arts. Too often, folks are fixated on big tech and large manufacturing companies, which are important, but tourism and the arts are very important to our economic growth and to our wellness.
Q: How does the Department of Commerce balance supporting small businesses and attracting and retaining big companies?
A: We know we need both. More Marylanders are employed by small and medium businesses than big companies. We want to retain them, but we also want to help them grow their market share.
Q: What is the estimated timeline for (the Sphere) construction?
A: I expect that within four years it should be open. Prince George’s County is working with all of its partners to expedite permitting, zoning, processing and the like.
Q: Why do you think Maryland was attractive to Sphere Entertainment?
A: Under the Moore-Miller administration, we have been very business development minded and agile in our pursuit of new businesses. We work in partnership with local and county partners. Sphere Entertainment (officials) saw that partnership, they saw our agility, they saw what we have delivered and they wanted to be a part of that. It’s also 24/7 foot traffic. Las Vegas is Las Vegas, but there’s no other place in this region like the National Harbor and Prince George’s County when it comes to the foot traffic that would be there.
Q: What will be the anticipated economic impact of the Sphere?
A: The economic analysis showed that it was going to be a $1.5 billion annual economic benefit to the surrounding area and the state. That’s fabulous.
Q: Last year, thousands of federal workers in Maryland were laid off. How did those layoffs impact Maryland businesses?
A: No state has been impacted to the degree that Maryland has with regards to the number of federal jobs lost. That is tragic for those individuals and their families and their loved ones. There’s also consultants, engineering firms, logistics firms that support some of those federal departments and agencies that have been cut back. That has also increased the amount of jobs that we’ve lost in Maryland as a direct result of some of the policies coming out of Washington. This can’t be overlooked, there’s a ripple effect when we don’t have money in our pockets. We don’t do as much grocery shopping, we don’t take vacations, we don’t go to the movies.
Q: What are the economic benefits of data centers and how do those weigh against the potential drain on resources and energy?
A: It increases the tax base so that minimizes a need to raise taxes. That’s a general statement, but it applies to data centers. Data centers also bring a lot of construction jobs.
Absolutely, there are challenges. If you look back to Gov. Moore’s State of the State remarks in January, he said that data centers need to hire Marylanders. Those data centers need to bring their own energy. They need to not raise energy rates for our residents. We also are taking a look at what’s the impact to traffic (and) any concerns the local community has. We are not saying no to data centers, we’re saying ‘Yes and this is what needs to happen.’
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