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Michael Johansen Honored by Government Relations Peers at MGRA

October 18, 2016 News

Annapolis – The Maryland Government Relations Association (MGRA) recently honored three government affairs professionals at its inaugural conference and dinner. MGRA is the statewide organization for government affairs professionals who lobby and advocate in front of elected and appointed officials in Maryland. “MGRA is delighted to recognize these three outstanding leaders for their contributions to their profession, community, and public policy in Maryland. This inaugural class of inductees will set the bar for other members to aspire to for years to come.”, said Jason Groves, President of MGRA, and Executive Vice President and General Counsel at Medifast, Inc.

This year’s honorees were:

MGRA Service Award: Lisa Harris Jones, founder of Harris Jones Malone LLC. Lisa was recognized for her contributions to various non-profit organizations, including The Discovery School for students with learning challenges, the House of Ruth which protects abused women, and the Journey Home which is focused on homelessness issues. Lisa has also been recognized as a Special Leader by the YMCA of Greater Baltimore.

MGRA Outstanding Colleague Award: Michael V. Johansson, Administrative Partner at Rifkin, Weisner Livingston LLC. Mike was honored by his peers for his experience and advice on lobbying registration, reporting and compliance; campaign finance and election law; and other government ethics matters. Mike’s professionalism and willingness to assist his colleagues were cited in the presentation of his award.

MGRA Lifetime Achievement Award: George N. Manis, co-founder of Manis Canning and Associates. This award was accepted by Nick Manis on behalf of his father, who passed away in 2014. George was honored for his more than 40-year career in Annapolis, in which he was an effective advocate for his many clients as well as a mentor for many younger lobbyists. He set the standard for hard work, ethical behavior, and professionalism, and leaves behind a rich legacy rooted in honesty, loyalty, friendship, and love of family.
For more information about MGRA, please go to www.mgra.org.