Governor Maura Healey Steps in for Governor Wes Moore at Kennedy Institute’s Inspired Leadership Awards, Joins Discussion with Governor Sununu

March 27, 2024 (Boston, Mass.) — Maryland Governor Wes Moore was unable to attend the Edward M. Kennedy Institute’s 2024 Inspired Leadership Awards and receive his award alongside fellow honoree New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu due to the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey graciously stepped in to fill Governor Moore’s role in the evening’s planned events.

“We honored Governor Moore and Governor Sununu with our Inspired Leadership Awards for their commitment to public service and their ability to rise to significant challenges, which Governor Moore is demonstrating now as he leads Baltimore and Maryland in the aftermath of this tragic accident,” said Adam G. Hinds, CEO of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. “The Kennedy Institute is very grateful to Governor Maura Healey for taking part in the evening’s events in which we honored the leadership role governors play in our democracy and for sharing her insights on governing along with Governor Sununu.”

During the awards presentation, Governor Maura Healey took to the podium to read a letter to attendees on behalf of Governor Moore, who was leading the emergency response on the ground. Governor Moore’s letter, in part, said, “Senator Kennedy knew what it meant to lead in times of crisis… in this moment of hardship, Senator Kennedy’s example will continue to lead the way… I am humbled to receive this award alongside my friend and colleague, Governor Sununu, and I hope to work every day to live up to the namesake of this distinguished honor.”

Governor Healey later sat in for Governor Moore during the fireside chat with Governor Sununu, moderated by the evening’s special guest, NBC Meet the Press host Kristen Welker. The two governors discussed economic and social issues at the state level, the importance of public service, and where Democrats and Republicans can find consensus.

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About the Award for Inspired Leadership
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute Award for Inspired Leadership recognizes an individual who possesses qualities that reflect the legacy of Senator Edward M. Kennedy: modeling exemplary leadership, inspiring others to action, and making a difference through service to the community and country.

About the Edward M. Kennedy Institute
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is dedicated to educating the public about the important role of the Senate in our government, encouraging participatory democracy, invigorating civil discourse, and inspiring the next generation of citizens and leaders to engage in the civic life of their communities. Learn more via www.emkinstitute.org.