Talbot County, Maryland

05/28/2026

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EASTON — Rachel Smith, director of sales and marketing at Londonderry on the Tred Avon, has been reelected chair of the Talbot County Commission on Aging, continuing her leadership of the volunteer body dedicated to improving the lives of older adults across the county.
Smith was first appointed to the commission in 2020 and has served as chairperson since her election to that role in 2024.
"This is an honor I don't take lightly," said Smith. "Working alongside this dedicated group of commission members, we are charged with enhancing the quality of life for seniors in Talbot County by advising the County Council and advocating for change as needed. Our overarching goal remains supporting the safety, dignity, and well-being of all older adults in our county."

That commitment is one Londonderry residents have long embraced. From participating in the commission-supported senior supply drive through the Londonderry Satellite Rotary Club, to rallying around local initiatives that serve seniors across Talbot County, Londonderry residents understand caring for their broader community is just as important as the one they call home.

"Rachel's continued leadership on this commission is something we are incredibly proud of at Londonderry," said Christine Harrington, Londonderry CEO. "As a resident-owned community committed to the well-being of older adults, being represented at this level of local advocacy reflects exactly who we are and what we stand for. Rachel brings both expertise in senior living and a genuine passion for serving this community, and that combination makes a real difference."

The newly elected officers joining Smith in guiding the commission's work are:

• Vice president: Wendy Palmer, director of health interventions, YMCA of the Chesapeake.
• Treasurer: Megan Murray, volunteer coordinator, Talbot Hospice
• Co-secretaries: Carrie Ottey, community health nurse program supervisor, Senior Services/AERS, Talbot County Health Department; and Lee Newcomb, adult services social worker

Under Smith's leadership, the commission has advocated for a part-time ombudsman position to support residents navigating long-term care, while also working to improve transparency and public understanding of nursing home care across the county. The commission continues to host the annual senior resource fair and senior supply drive and collaborates closely with Upper Shore Aging and the Talbot County Council to support local senior centers and programs.

To learn more about the Talbot County Commission on Aging, visit talbotcountymd.gov/About-Us/boards/commission-on-aging.