NORTH EAST, MD — Raymond W. “Chick” Hamm Jr., chairman of the Cecil College Board of Trustees and Cecil County’s director of finance, has been sworn in to a third six-year term on the college’s governing board, extending the tenure of a trustee whose leadership has coincided with the institution’s continued focus on workforce development and community access to higher education.
Hamm took the oath of office July 9 at the Cecil County Courthouse, Cecil College announced. His reappointment comes as the college continues to position itself as a regional provider of workforce training and affordable postsecondary education.
Appointed Cecil County’s director of finance in March 2025, Hamm joined county government after retiring from a 47-year career in commercial banking. He previously served as president, chief executive officer and director of Mercantile County Bank before becoming commercial market leader for Greater Maryland at PNC Bank.
In addition to chairing the Cecil College Board of Trustees, Hamm serves as a director and treasurer of the Bainbridge Development Corporation. His public service also includes membership on the Maryland State Economic Development Commission, serving as board chair of Union Hospital in Cecil County and later as a board member of ChristianaCare Health System.
Hamm said his years on the board have reinforced the importance of the college’s mission to students and the region.
“My trustee experience has provided a front-row view of many students from all walks of life who are working very hard to improve their education and preparedness for the workforce,” Hamm said. “They are amazing.”
He also pointed to the college’s role in supporting economic growth in Cecil County through accessible education and workforce preparation.
“I see Cecil College as the key provider of workforce readiness training for our region and, as the county continues to experience growth in jobs and career opportunities, Cecil’s open-access and affordability will help our friends, families, and neighbors achieve their goals,” Hamm said. He added that the college also serves as “a hub of activity for athletics and the arts,” providing opportunities that strengthen the community.
Hamm earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, cum laude, from Loyola College of Maryland in 1982 and a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance the following year. He resides in the Elk Neck area of Cecil County with his wife, Anne.
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