Baltimore, December 22, 2004 — John J. King, Group Manager for Provident’s Community Banking Division, recently completed an eight-month long leadership development program sponsored by Leadership Maryland.

Leadership Maryland honored King, a Pasadena resident, along with 51 statewide classmates at a black-tie reception and banquet held at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore.

Leadership Maryland, an independent, educational leadership development organization, informs top level executives from the public and private sectors about the critical issues, challenges and opportunities facing the State of Maryland, and its regions. After participating in a broad range of experiences, these statewide leaders are prepared to address these issues and serve as important participants in the unified effort to shape Maryland’s future. King’s experience and expertise in the financial services industry led to his selection as a candidate for the development program.

"To be informed about statewide and regional issues, and having the opportunity to engage and interact with leaders who put themselves on the front line everyday, has prepared these individuals to be the catalyst for positive change in Maryland," stated Leadership Maryland Board Chair Dr. Catherine R. Gira. A 1993 graduate of the program, Dr. Gira is President of Frostburg State University.

"These are the leaders to watch, now, and in the future," said Leadership Maryland President Nancy Minieri. "Their experience confirms that the quality of leadership affects the success of the solutions. Problems are solved when committed, dynamic leaders with vision and passion are willing to take the risk to lead."