Brenda J. Thiam
Brenda J. Thiam is a Republican leader, educator, and community advocate with a long history of serving families and individuals in Hagerstown and Washington County.
Brenda was born and raised in Raeford, North Carolina. She graduated from Hoke County High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from North Carolina Central University. She later earned a Master of Education from the University of Maryland, College Park, a Ph.D. in Special Education Leadership from Capella University, and a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Pennsylvania State University.
A Career Dedicated to Education and Community Service
Brenda built her professional career working with children, families, and individuals with special needs. She worked as a special-education teacher and held leadership positions with organizations serving people with disabilities.
She later served as an Autism Specialist with Washington County Public Schools. During her career in education, she secured a $100,000 grant to support continuing education for teachers working with students with intellectual disabilities.
Following her career in public education, Brenda founded Oasis Community Support Services, an organization focused on supporting the needs of adults with autism.
Service in the Maryland House of Delegates
In 2020, Brenda was appointed to the Maryland House of Delegates to represent District 2B in Washington County. She was sworn into office on October 6, 2020.
During her time in the General Assembly, Brenda served on the House Judiciary Committee and was appointed Deputy Minority Whip in 2022.
Brenda made history as the first African-American Republican woman to serve in the Maryland General Assembly.
Serving District 2B
District 2B includes the City of Hagerstown in Washington County. Brenda previously represented the district in the Maryland House of Delegates from 2020 through 2023.
In 2026, Brenda was nominated by the Washington County Republican Central Committee to once again seek the District 2B seat in the Maryland House of Delegates.
Committed to Hagerstown and Washington County
Brenda's background in education, special education, community service, and state government has given her experience working with families, educators, community organizations, and constituents throughout Washington County.
Today, Brenda is focused on bringing that experience back to District 2B and continuing her public service in the Maryland House of Delegates.