Dear Montgomery College Leadership Team,

We, members of the Montgomery County community, write to express our deep concern and disappointment upon learning of the recent removal of Dr. Hamrawit Tesfa from her position as Director of the Montgomery College East County Education Center.

 

For over a decade, Dr. Tesfa has been a tireless advocate for our community. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental in expanding access to college-level degree programs and short-term training opportunities for residents throughout the region.

 

Her appointment as Director of the East County Education Center was a source of pride and hope for many of us, as we saw in her a committed leader forging strong connections between the College and the community it serves.

Under her leadership, the Center became a more inclusive and welcoming space for the area’s diverse population. 

Dr. Tesfa championed numerous community initiatives and worked tirelessly to ensure that educational opportunities reached those who have historically been underserved—particularly communities of color, immigrants, and low-income residents.

 

As the Center marks its one-year anniversary, we believe it is important to recognize the impressive achievements during Dr. Tesfa’s tenure: over 1,000 students enrolled in credit courses, more than 1,500 in non-credit programs, and over 50 educational and community resource events hosted. 

These accomplishments reflect more than just numbers—they represent lives changed, aspirations fulfilled, and systemic barriers overcome.

 

Dr. Tesfa’s sudden removal from this critical leadership position has left us not only shocked but also deeply concerned about the future of the Center and its continued commitment to equitable and culturally responsive service.

We respectfully request that Montgomery College:

    1    Provide a clear and detailed explanation for Dr. Tesfa’s removal.

    2    Share measurable data and specific outcomes that demonstrate how the College is committed to serving particularly immigrants and African Americans. 

 

We look forward to your prompt response and to your continued commitment to transparency and meaningful engagement with the communities you serve.

Sincerely,

Community members and leaders who have been positively impacted by Dr. Tesfa’s work.