Shayla Adam Stafford officially sworn in as Prince George's County Council member

The Prince George's County Council convened on June 17, 2025, for a swearing-in ceremony that marked the official induction of Shayla Adam Stafford as the new council member for District 5. The event was characterized by a palpable sense of excitement and community support, as council members and attendees gathered to celebrate this significant milestone.

The meeting commenced with a warm welcome from the council chair, who acknowledged the presence of fellow council members, including Vice Chair Moriada and members from various districts. The chair emphasized the long-awaited nature of the day, expressing enthusiasm for the new leadership that Stafford would bring to the council.

Following the opening remarks, Vice Chair Moriada delivered a heartfelt tribute to Stafford, highlighting her intelligence, integrity, and commitment to serving the community. Moriada noted that Stafford's experiences as a mother and educator would enhance her ability to represent the needs of residents effectively. This sentiment was echoed by other council members, including Tom DeNoga and Walla Blige, who praised Stafford's dedication and innovative ideas that would benefit the county.

DeNoga remarked on the council's evolving demographic, noting a shift towards younger representation, which he believed would better reflect the county's population. He expressed confidence in Stafford's ability to contribute positively to the council's work, citing her impressive campaign and her previous role on the Board of Education.

Blige, in her remarks, emphasized Stafford's passion and tireless work ethic, recounting her numerous ideas for improving District 5. She highlighted Stafford's unique background as a business owner and educator, which would bring a fresh perspective to the council's discussions.

The ceremony also included personal tributes from Stafford's family and friends, who shared anecdotes about her journey into public service and her unwavering commitment to the community. They expressed pride in her accomplishments and confidence in her future contributions as a council member.

As the ceremony progressed, the council prepared for the official oath of office. The clerk of the court led Stafford in affirming her commitment to uphold the laws and constitution of the United States, Maryland, and Prince George's County. Following the oath, the council chair announced Stafford's committee assignments, which included roles on the Education Workforce Development Committee and the Economic Development Corporation, among others.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the collective optimism surrounding Shayla Adam Stafford's appointment to the council. Her colleagues expressed eagerness to collaborate with her on initiatives that would enhance the quality of life for residents in Prince George's County. The ceremony not only celebrated Stafford's new role but also reflected the community's commitment to progress and representation in local governance.