Donald C. Fry Given Honorary Doctorate at FSU Commencement

Donald C. Fry Given Honorary Doctorate at FSU Commencement

May 22, 2026 8:00 AM

Frostburg State University presented the Honorable Donald C. Fry '77 with an Honorary Doctor of Public Service at the 168^th Commencement ceremony held on May 21. Fry, a respected leader in Maryland's civic, governmental and business communities, was recognized for a distinguished career spanning more than four decades. His extensive record of public service included eight years in the Maryland General Assembly and over two decades of executive leadership at the Greater Baltimore Committee.

Fry earned a bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in business administration from Frostburg State College (now University) in 1977, and a juris doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1980. He demonstrated early leadership during his collegiate years. At Frostburg, he was actively involved in student government, serving as Director of State Affairs and later as President of the Student Government Association. Fry was also a four-year starter on the football team and served as co-captain in his senior year. After earning his law degree, he went on to practice law in Harford County, Md., for 20 years. In 1990, he was elected to the Maryland General Assembly, serving in the House of Delegates and the Senate of Maryland. During his legislative tenure, Fry held key roles on major budget committees in both chambers.

In 1999, Fry transitioned from private legal practice to public advocacy, joining the Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC) as Executive Vice President and General Counsel. In 2002, he was named President and CEO, a position he held until 2022, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the organization's history.

During his tenure at GBC, Fry championed initiatives to strengthen the Baltimore region's economic competitiveness. His leadership focused on advancing economic growth, job creation, education, workforce development, infrastructure and transportation.

Fry has also contributed his expertise through service on numerous state and local boards, commissions and task forces. Notably, he served on the Maryland Port Commission and chaired the State of Maryland's Video Lottery Facilities Commission, overseeing the competitive bidding process for casino locations.

In recognition of his contributions, Fry has received numerous awards for civic leadership from leading regional publications and organizations. He has been inducted into both the Baltimore Business and Civic Hall of Fame and the Maryland Business Hall of Fame.

Following his retirement from GBC in 2022, Fry continues to remain active in the community. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for Harford Mutual Insurance Group and is a devoted advocate for and donor to Frostburg State University and serves as a member of the FSU Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors.

To watch a recording of the live stream of commencement, visit the Commencement web site.