Security Square Center Lead Medical Assistant Michelle Taylor was in attendance for Governor Wes Moore's State of the State Address Wednesday, and even earned a shout-out from the governor himself for her work with Chase Brexton.
"We need the partnership of people who serve not just as our inspiration, but also as our guides," the governor said. "People like Michelle Taylor. Michelle works in a community health center that treats Marylanders who’ve been turned away by other providers: Marylanders living paycheck-to-paycheck; Marylanders in the LGBTQIA+ community; Marylanders without health insurance. She’s the mother of a beautiful daughter named Diamonique – and both of them are with us today. Could you please stand and be recognized?"
You can watch the full address here (Michelle is recognized around the 57:50 mark), or read a transcript of it here.
Michelle shared a bit about her experience and day in Annapolis:
The experience was so overwhelming. I had no idea of what to expect at all," she said. "The introduction of the Governor was out of this world. It reminded me of going to my daughter’s home games or a fraternity step party at Morgan State University. Someone was yelling very loudly and then folks began to stomp as if players were coming onto the field…but it was the Governor. He stopped to embrace every person that was in his path. He seemed so kind and gracious. To receive a shout out from the Governor was a surreal moment. I am an extremely shy person--most people don’t know that about me. I received a lot of hugs and handshakes, including one from the first lady.
"After the State of the State Address, we were asked to come to the Governor's house across the street for a luncheon. While in line awaiting entry, a few senators stopped to say hello and asked what I do. Two of the Senators were very familiar with Chase Brexton. Both noted living in the Mt. Vernon area. They stated how Chase Brexton does such good work within the community. My daughter and I had a great time. There were so many people at the event swarming the Governor at all times for photos, hugs and conversation. I had so many people reach out to me via social media or text such as JaNee Deline who was so proud to see me there.
"I am so grateful for the experience. I wish I was more prepared to push through the masses of people for an opportunity to actually meet the Governor in person. His shout out was so personal for me and my daughter. Thank you to the senior leadership team who recommended me to attend. I am grateful. Thank you to all for your heartfelt well wishes."
Michelle's honor was noted in the Baltimore Sun's recap of the speech, too:
"That theme [of partnership] extended to the Marylanders the governor invited as guests and highlighted throughout the speech. He asked lawmakers to recommend constituents, a departure from the norm of past State of the State speeches.
House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, of Baltimore County, recommended Chase Brexton Health lead medical assistant Michelle Taylor, who Moore highlighted for her work to treat patients “who’ve been turned away by other providers.” Del. Luke Clippinger, a Baltimore Democrat, recommended Cleoda Walker, a village elder of Cherry Hill whose “mission in life is to steer kids, youth and adults away from violence and toward opportunity,” Moore said.
Congratulations on this exciting honor, Michelle, and thank you for representing Security Square Center and Chase Brexton so well!
News
