Horizon Announces New Communications Director

Nicolette Highsmith Vernick, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Horizon Foundation, has announced that Ian Kennedy has been hired as the organization’s first Director of Communications.

Kennedy most recently served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Howard County Executive Ken Ulman. In this capacity, he shaped numerous policies and communications plans to improve county services and steered the development and implementation of a digital communications strategy for county government. A graduate of the University of Maryland Baltimore County with a Bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies, Kennedy also has a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Maryland.

“As we work to expand the reach and impact of the Foundation, a comprehensive communications push is central to this effort,” said Highsmith Vernick. “Ian’s skills, talents, and passion make him an ideal fit for this position, and we are confident he will be a tremendous asset to the Horizon Foundation and the community.”

In addition to his professional experience in public service, Ian has been an active member of the Howard County community for many years, including membership on the boards of several local organizations and as a leader of the effort to preserve Merriweather Post Pavilion.

Kennedy lives in the Oakland Mills village of Columbia with his wife, Lena, and their two daughters, Penelope and Daphne.

Kennedy starts at the Foundation Nov. 5.