The New Braveboy Administration Begins To Take Shape As Powell, Ramirez And Wright Join Leadership

Braveboy Announces Dynamic New Leaders to Advance Education, Technology, and Public Safety in Prince George’s County

In a bold and strategic move to usher in a new era of leadership, Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy has unveiled three key appointments to her administration, each representing a cornerstone of her commitment to transformative governance: education, technology, and public safety. With a focus on equity, innovation, and community collaboration, Braveboy's choices send a strong message that her administration will prioritize excellence, experience, and a deep connection to the communities they serve.

Betsy Ramirez: Bridging the Gap Between Schools and Communities

Betsy Ramirez, a seasoned educator and counselor, has been appointed as the County’s new Education Liaison. A proud product of the County’s public schools and a graduate of High Point High School, Ramirez brings with her not just experience, but a personal stake in the success of Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS).

“The appointment of an Education Liaison further illustrates my commitment to prioritizing education in Prince George’s County,” Braveboy said. “Betsy Ramirez is an expert in building relationships and coordinating activities that foster students’ personal and academic success.”

Ramirez’s background includes years of service as a Spanish teacher, English as a Second Language educator, and, most recently, as a professional school counselor in Montgomery County Public Schools from 2006 to 2023. She is also a parent—adding a critical, empathetic perspective to her work.

“I carry a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing our schools, students, and parents,” Ramirez said. “I’m looking forward to working with Ms. Braveboy and all PGCPS stakeholders.”

Ramirez will serve as the critical nexus between the Office of the County Executive, the School Board, Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph, and families across the district, strengthening collaboration and driving forward a shared vision of academic excellence.

Vennard Wright: Driving Innovation in County Government

In a major appointment poised to modernize Prince George’s County’s digital infrastructure, Braveboy announced the return of tech leader Vennard Wright as Director of the Office of Information Technology (OIT). Wright, currently President and CEO of Pre-Vista—an award-winning AI-based weapons detection firm based in National Harbor—brings a wealth of public and private sector experience back to County government.

“Vennard Wright is a successful Prince George’s County business owner and resident with experience and familiarity with County government,” Braveboy said. “I am confident in Mr. Wright’s experience and his ability to transform the County’s use of technology, while maximizing the safety and integrity of our data.”

Wright previously held the same position from 2012 to 2017 and later served as Chief Information Officer at the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC), where he spearheaded cost-saving initiatives totaling more than $6 million in his first year. His leadership extended to managing teams of over 200 with operational budgets exceeding $70 million.

“Becoming CIO again wasn’t on my radar,” Wright admitted. “But the moment I understood the urgency of the need and heard County Executive-elect Braveboy’s transformative vision, I recognized a once-in-a-lifetime chance to drive innovation that uplifts every resident, empowers our businesses and students, and redefines how government serves its people.”

With cybersecurity, digital equity, and service delivery at the forefront of today’s challenges, Wright’s return is expected to propel the County toward a more efficient and secure digital future.

Melvin D. Powell: A Veteran’s Vision for Public Safety

To lead the County’s public safety efforts, Braveboy has selected retired Deputy Chief of the Prince George’s County Police Department, Melvin D. Powell, as Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) for Public Safety. With over 25 years of law enforcement experience, Powell will oversee the Police Department, Fire/EMS, Department of Corrections, and Homeland Security, while serving as liaison to the Office of the Sheriff and the State’s Attorney’s Office.

“Melvin Powell is a well-respected and tenured Deputy Chief of our own Prince George’s County Police Department,” said Braveboy. “He brings the kind of seasoned leadership that is essential to guiding the men and women who do the vital work of serving the people of Prince George’s County.”

Powell, who retired in 2020, has remained deeply engaged in public safety through his private firm, Tetrad Protective Solutions, and service with the Federal Office of Homeland Security. He holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice and an M.S. in Management from Johns Hopkins University.

“Nothing pleases me more than another opportunity to serve the people of Prince George’s County,” Powell said. “County Executive-elect Braveboy’s vision for comprehensive public safety and collaboration will strengthen our relationship with each other and with the community.”

A Vision Rooted in Progress

These appointments, announced June 17, mark a pivotal step in Braveboy’s transition to the executive office. Each of the newly named leaders embodies a combination of professional acumen and personal commitment to the County.

From classrooms to control rooms to command centers, Braveboy’s picks are poised to reshape the way Prince George’s County educates its children, protects its citizens, and embraces the future through innovation.

As Braveboy prepares to take office, residents are looking ahead with a renewed sense of optimism. With these key roles filled by individuals who know the County, have served it, and are committed to elevating it, the path forward appears clearer—and stronger—than ever.