What does it really mean to be a community hospital—not just a hospital in the community? 💙

In this episode, SMECO Connects host Tom Dennison sits down with Albert Zanger, Chief Administrative Officer of the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, to talk about leadership, culture, and the future of local health care in Southern Maryland. Albert shares how his team built a "zero-harm" culture, expanded emergency services, and continues to bring world-class care closer to home.

Key themes:

• Building a connected, compassionate workplace culture
• Expanding emergency and specialty care in Southern Maryland
• Lessons in leadership, teamwork, and community collaboration
  
  

It's a powerful conversation about service, growth, and what it means to truly care for the community you live in.

🎙 Host: Tom Dennison
👤 Guest: Albert Zanger – Chief Administrative Officer, UM Charles Regional Medical Center

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What if your electric bill could help fight climate change?

In this episode of SMECO Connects, host Tom Dennison sits down with Bennett Rushkoff, a longtime SMECO member who signed up for Rider G—SMECO’s 100% renewable energy option. Bennett shares how a simple decision to join the program transformed not only his household energy use but also his outlook on personal impact and community change.

In this conversation:

• How Rider G makes renewable energy accessible to everyone
• Lessons learned from Maryland’s evolving clean-energy market
• Why investing in green power can be part of your “giving budget”

Bennett’s story shows that going green doesn’t have to be complicated—it just starts with a single, informed choice. Tune in to learn how you can join him in powering a cleaner tomorrow.

Connect with SMECO:

Instagram: @somdelectric

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In this inspiring episode of SMECO Connects, host Tom Dennison and co-host Natalie Cotton sit down with Robert Riddick and Shawn Coates of the Morgan State University Southern Maryland Alumni Chapter. From scholarships that open doors for first-generation students to hands-on service projects that uplift neighborhoods, these proud Morgan graduates show what it truly means to come back and give back.

Discover how their alumni network is building opportunity across Southern Maryland — and how anyone can get involved.

Key themes:

• The power of education and mentorship
• Community impact through scholarships and service
• The legacy and pride of Morgan State University
  
  

🎓 Learn more: msusmac.org
📅 Upcoming Event: 20th Anniversary Celebration – September 13, Waldorf Jaycees

Guests:

• Robert Riddick, President, Morgan State University Southern Maryland Alumni Chapter
• Shawn Coates, Scholarship Chair, Morgan State University Southern Maryland Alumni Chapter
  
  

Hosts:

• Sonja Cox (President & CEO, SMECO)
• Tom Dennison (VP, Government & Public Affairs)
  
  

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