Michael Golibersuch
My goal is to ensure Columbia is as great for the next generation as it was for mine
As a young couple, my parents moved to Columbia inspired by the vision of James Rouse to build a socio-economically and racially integrated community that respects nature. Having moved here in the early 70's they remain proud "pioneers" to this day. A few years later, I was born. I attended the East Columbia Nursery Co-Op, Dasher Green (now Cradlerock) Elementary, Owen Brown (now Lake Elkhorn) Middle, and graduated from Oakland Mills High School. I spent my young adulthood away from Columbia attending Syracuse University and serving around the country and world in the Army.
Growing up, I was always taught what a special place Columbia is but I didn't truly understand how unique Columbia is - and how growing up in an integrated community made me a better person - until spending time away. I moved back after serving in the Army so that my wife and I could raise a family in the same nurturing enviornment.
I want to give back to my community so, for the past six years, I have served on the Owen Brown Community Association board of directors. I'm proud of many, sometimes modest, things that we've been able to accomplish including starting an annual plant giveaway, having trees planted around the community, and advocating for our community at the county level. During my time on the board, I've learned from and appreciated the mentorship of Andy Stack. This year, he has decided to step down from his position as Owen Brown's CA representative and, although he leaves big shoes to fill, I was flattered that he is confident enough in me to ask me to run to replace him.
In my spare time I enjoy watching my young children grow, walking my dog around Lake Elkhorn, photographing birds and other wildlife, playing board games, and attending Orioles games. One of the best parts of serving on the Owen Brown board has been meeting so many of my neighbors - If you see a guy with a fluffy brown and white dog (Phoebe) walking around the lake, please stop me and say hello!