Kerry Darragh, MPP
Kerry is an experienced communications professional with a background in public policy. She is passionate about public health and advocating for change to make communities healthier, cleaner and stronger for all people.
At the Horizon Foundation, Kerry manages communications for several Foundation program and policy initiatives, including Howard County Unsweetened, Speak(easy) Howard and the Streets for All campaign. Prior to joining the Foundation, Kerry served as a senior associate at The Hatcher Group, a communications firm that works with nonprofits and foundations. She managed client campaigns and provided communications support – specifically media relations, messaging, social media and digital strategies – on a number of public health and environmental initiatives. She also assisted advocacy efforts to pass legislation during Maryland’s annual General Assembly session in Annapolis; successful campaigns included boosting state funding and programs for behavioral health and banning consumer use of toxic neonicitinoid pesticides that harm bees and other wildlife.
Kerry previously interned for Maryland StateStat and State Senator Karen Montgomery. In her hometown of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Kerry also worked with the Kellyn Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to improving community wellness and healthy lifestyles, by assisting in healthy cooking demonstrations for kids and researching policies on food sustainability.
Kerry holds a bachelor’s degree in government and politics and a master’s in public policy from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Favorite things in Howard County
- Exploring the many parks and trails with her dog, Finnegan
- Enjoying the different food options
- The strong sense of community
Why I care about promoting health and wellness
Because health and wellness are key to helping people thrive.