FAQ: E. Randolph Marriner's Career and Community Recognition

Who is E. Randolph Marriner and why is he being honored?

E. Randolph Marriner is a 75-year-old serial entrepreneur and former gaming commissioner who is being honored by Leadership Howard County on October 29 for his community stewardship, business success, and decades of civic engagement.

What business ventures has Randy Marriner been involved in?

He started with a marketing firm in Columbia, then moved into real estate development, restaurants, Manor Hill Farm brewery, and currently helps grow a national live events production agency that grossed $17 million last year.

What was Randy Marriner’s role in Maryland gaming regulation?

Beginning in 2003, he was appointed by four different governors (two Republicans and two Democrats) to the gaming commission, serving as chair for six and a half years, overseeing lottery operations, slots, six casinos with table games, and finally sports gambling.

What recent health challenges has Randy Marriner faced?

He recently underwent quadruple bypass surgery with a 17-day hospital stay and also suffered injuries from an escalator accident at Penn Station in New York on January 23 that required 14 staples in his head, a total hip replacement, and treatment for a crushed lung.

What organization is honoring Randy Marriner and what do they say about him?

Leadership Howard County is honoring him, with President and CEO Tim Payne describing him as ‘a steadfast champion of community stewardship’ who earned respect through success, perseverance, and weathering challenges with grit and grace.

What is Randy Marriner’s family background and how did it influence his career?

His family includes some of the oldest families in Howard County and Maryland, and his entrepreneurial spirit comes from his family’s highway construction business in Jessup, which also led to his political engagement through state contracting work.

What community organizations has Randy Marriner been involved with?

He has had decades of commitment to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and broad civic engagement in Howard County and beyond, building community through relationships and inspiring others to invest in one another.

How did Randy Marriner demonstrate resilience after his recent accident?

Despite his escalator accident at Penn Station that caused serious injuries, he and his wife Mary still attended the second act of the Broadway show they had tickets for that evening, showing his determination not to let setbacks deter him.