BALTIMORE — The Daily Record named Keasha Haythe, director, Dorchester County Economic Development to its 2015 listing of Maryland’s Top 100 Women, the 20th anniversary of the award program.

The Daily Record began Maryland’s Top 100 Women in 1996 to recognize outstanding achievement by women demonstrated through professional accomplishments, community leadership and mentoring.

Nearly 400 were nominated for the statewide honor. Nominees were asked to complete an application outlining their educational and career history, professional and community involvement, corporate and nonprofit board memberships, and mentoring experience. They were encouraged to submit letters of recommendation from those who are familiar with their accomplishments professionally, in the community and through mentoring.

A panel of judges comprised of business professionals and past Maryland’s Top 100 Women winners from throughout Maryland reviewed the applications and selected this year’s honorees.

In 2015, 70 women are first-time recipients. Eleven women will be inducted into the Circle of Excellence. Circle of Excellence honorees will receive the award for a third and final time.

“This year’s Maryland’s Top 100 Women are extraordinary. They go above and beyond in everything they do. They lead companies, create change, break barriers, chart new territory and make a difference at home, at work and in their communities,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, publisher. “The Daily Record is pleased to honor them.”

“Ms. Haythe is a great asset to Dorchester County,” stated Ricky Travers, president of the Dorchester County Council. “She is innovative and always works hard to promote business development, expansion and retention initiatives in our County. We are proud of her accomplishments and thrilled that she has been named as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women for 2015.”

Keasha Haythe serves as Dorchester County’s Economic Development Director. She has developed a track record of initiating sound policies and innovative strategies to foster economic growth. In 2012, she was recognized by the Daily Record as one of their leading women under 40.

An Eastern Shore native, Ms. Haythe is a member of TriLife Christian Center in Easton where she serves on the Ministerial Team as an Ordained Evangelist. She is married to Marcus L. Haythe Sr., and they have three children, Marcus Jr., Miniah and Isaiah.

The awards will be presented at a cocktail reception on May 4, starting at 5 p.m. at Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore. The awards will be presented at 6:30 p.m. followed by a dessert reception. Winners will be profiled in a special magazine that will be inserted into the May 8, issue of The Daily Record and available online at www.TheDailyRecord.com.