“These highly talented and diverse leaders are subject matter experts who bring a wide range of experience and expertise.” said Governor Moore. “They chose to serve, and our state will be better because of their service.”
Other executive leaders sworn in this evening include:
Secretary Sanjay Rai, Ph.D., Secretary, Maryland State Commission on Higher Education
Dr. Lai champions access to higher education, improves student success through organizational change, workforce development, and economic development, builds partnerships with business and industry leaders, and leads regional, national, and international efforts. I am a higher education advocate with over 30 years of experience in engagement. level. Dr. Rai is globally recognized for his work as both a scholar and an institutional leader who is committed to making higher education more accessible, more flexible, and more affordable.
William C. Tilburg, Bar Doctor, MPH, Maryland Cannabis Control Director
William Tillberg will become the first director of the Maryland Cannabis Authority, an independent agency that oversees cannabis-related licensing, registration, inspection and testing measures across the state. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Tillberg served for five years at the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, first as Director of Policy and Governmental Affairs and then as Executive Director of the Maryland Medical Cannabis Program. He also serves as President of the Cannabis Regulators Association, a nonpartisan association of state cannabis and cannabis regulators representing more than 45 states and territories, which develops best practices for cannabis and cannabis regulation across the country. I am.
Ashala DeBerry, Ed S., Director of the Governor's Office for the Deaf
Ashala DeBerry is a program administrator and advocate for the Deaf community with more than 20 years of experience and the first African American to be appointed Director of the Governor's Office of the Deaf. Most recently, DeBerry served as regional manager for the Division of Deaf Services for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. She previously served as assistant provost, K-12 educator and higher educator at Gallaudet University. She uses her platform to improve the lives and well-being of others as a board member of the National Black Deaf Advocates, a board member of the Gallaudet University Alumni Association, and a member of Delta Her Sigma Her Theta Her Sorority, Inc. .
Gregory S. Rogers, State Chief Information Security Officer
As Chief Information Security Officer, Greg Rogers will focus on developing cybersecurity and risk management across the state, working with the Governor and the Legislature. He is a cybersecurity leader with over 20 years of extensive IT and security experience. Previously, he spent six years as chief information security officer for a financial services company, working with business functions to manage cyber risks and achieve regulatory compliance. He spent 15 years as a contractor for the United States Department of Defense specializing in communications security, cryptographic devices, and cyber risk management for mission-critical systems.
Wallace Sermons II, JD, MBA, Chief Procurement Officer
Wallace Salmons II will become the first African-American chief procurement officer in Maryland history. Salmons will oversee all procurement activities for the State of Maryland and work closely with various agencies to develop fair policies and streamline the procurement process. Prior to joining the Maryland General Services Administration in 2023, he served as Deputy Director of the Office of Government Contracts at the U.S. Small Business Administration. He also previously held several procurement roles at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
