Character Counts of Queen Anne's County
About Us
Character Counts! of Queen Anne’s County is a community-wide initiative dedicated to promoting character development through the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship.
For more than twenty-five years, trained volunteer coaches have partnered with local schools to bring these values to life through classroom lessons, while outreach efforts extend this work throughout the broader community.
Guided by a dedicated Advisory Council of community and agency leaders, Character Counts! works to support and strengthen positive character in all aspects of life. Together, we are helping build a more respectful, responsible, and caring community for the next generation.
Melinda Ray, Character Counts Coordinator
Melinda leads the Character Counts! initiative in Queen Anne’s County, working closely with volunteers, schools, and community partners to bring the Six Pillars of Character to life. She is passionate about building connections and creating opportunities for character development across the community.
Meet Our Advisory Board
Our Advisory Board is made up of dedicated community and agency leaders who help guide and support the Character Counts! initiative.
Shawna Payne, Advisory Board Chair
Shawna helps guide the Character Counts! initiative by providing leadership and insight from her work in the community. She is committed to supporting efforts that strengthen character development and create positive opportunities for youth in Queen Anne’s County.
Board Members
Rachael Carmody, Local Management Board
Sarah Seeling, Giving the Edge Foundation
Jay Kenty, Community Member & Volunteer
Courtney Sabol, Community Member & Volunteer
Kashira Brooks, Community Member & Volunteer
Martha Anthony, Community Member
Devrine Jones, Community Member
Melissa Rochester, Community Member
Sheriff Gary Hoffman, QAC Sheriff's Office
Dfc. Alex Cooper, QAC Sheriff's Office
Sarah Seeling, Giving the Edge Foundation
Joselle Gatrell, Community Member & Volunteer
Anna Ashley, QAC Dept of Health & Volunteer
Leslie Follum, QACPS
Connie Dean, QAC Economic Development and Tourism
Jenny Griffin, Community Member
Kashira Brooks, Community member
