About
In developing your leadership skills it's helpful to learn from the best! Generation Connect presents the first of 2016's Educational Breakfast Series: Leadership Lessons and Insights. Panelists will discuss their career journeys, community leadership experience, and participate in a Q&A session.
Panelists
Tony is President of the Verdant Realty Group, LLC, which focuses on commercial, industrial, agricultural brokerage, leasing, consulting, and management. He assists clients in strategic planning and development management services. He is also a principle of the Verdant Development Group. He has 30-years in the real estate industry, has represented thousands of clients. He credits his success his "never say no" attitude and his passion for seeking solutions. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to acquire and redevelop the dilapidated Frederick Sportsplex into the state-of-the-art Frederick Indoor Sports Center, now a thriving 65,000 sq. ft. indoor sports, training and events facility. He is a lifelong resident of Frederick County and a graduate of Mount St. Mary's University. He currently lives at the River's Edge Farm with his wife, four children, and dog, Rocky. When he is not working, Tony enjoys spending time on the farm and playing or coaching soccer on his very own field of dreams.
Kate Surdez is the Director of People Services at the AstraZeneca Frederick site, leading Human Resources, Communications and Training. She has supported both Frederick and Gaithersburg functions since 2005. Kate serves as a Board member on the Business and Industry Cabinet as well as the CREST Board.
For the past 10 years, Kate has lived in the Frederick with her husband Steve, and their 2 boys, Jack and Aidan.
Roger is the Director of Government Affiars and Public Policy for the Office of County Executive. He is responsible for managing governmental affairs for the Frederick Maryland County Executive, including serving as a liaison to Frederick County's 12 municipalities, the County Council, as well as the State and Federal Delegation. In addition, Roger supports the County Executive with advancing public policy initiatives for the county and at the state and federal level.
He began his career with Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) and later joined IBM in 2000 with IBM Software Group supporting the Lotus brand. In 2003, Roger transitioned over to IBM’s Global Business Services (GBS) to focus on leading IT infrastructure and supply chain solutions supporting the Defense, Life Sciences, and Retail industries.
Roger has been happily married for 20 years and the father of three beautiful daughters. He lives in Frederick County and is very involved in the community serving on several boards and commissions. He has a life commitment and passion for advancing public policy in the areas of middle-class economics, an accessible and affordable 21st century higher education, and affordable housing for all.
Moderator
As CEO of Lee Building Maintenance, Jason Lee is a successful business owner and active member of the Frederick community. A true entrepreneur, he is a self-proclaimed “janitor” who created the “Jason the Janitor” brand. Jason’s personal and business motivation is to inspire everyone to reach their highest potential. He is a native of Frederick and believes the key to a thriving community is active participation from its residents. Jason is a board member of the Carroll Creek Rotary Club, YMCA of Frederick County, United Way of Frederick, Frederick County Work Force Services and the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. Jason provides motivation and inspiration to those seeking to become entrepreneurs as well as those who seek to take their dreams to the next level.
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