Gaithersburg introduced its 2023 junior mayor during Monday’s mayor and city council meeting.
Milly Abdo, a fourth grader at Fields Road Elementary School, was selected for the role from over 80 entries in an essay competition sponsored by the Maryland Municipal League, according to a news release from the city.
The theme for the contest asked fourth graders living in Gaithersburg to describe what they would do as mayor, and this year’s contest focused on “Preserving the Past to Power the Future.” Students were asked to write about what past traditions, beliefs, or events define Gaithersburg, which would they keep and honor, and which would they try to change and why.
Abdo’s essay focused on after school activities and sports options, as well as creating anti-bullying programs. Abdo and her brother both experienced bullying as the “new kids at school” when her family moved to Gaithersburg last August. Read Abdo’s winning essay on Gaithersburg’s website.
Abdo will carry out her role by being present either virtually or in person at events and ceremonies during the year. She will also have the opportunity to lead a community service project at her elementary school with the support of the city council and mayor.
The role was chosen through interviews with city staff for finalists in addition to the essays, which were considered by members of the Gaithersburg Educational Enrichment Committee.
During Monday’s Mayor and Council Meeting, Abdo read her essay and was sworn in as this year’s junior mayor. Her first appearance will be at the Gaithersburg Book Festival on Saturday, May 20.
