On the Eve of Election 2024 Important reminders
Dear UMBC Community,
 
Tomorrow is a milestone occasion in our civic life and, no matter the outcomes, a historic event. On the eve of Election Day, we write with a reminder of our values as an inclusive community and with encouragement to seek resources for support as you need them, whether today, tomorrow, or in the days and weeks ahead.
 
First, VOTE! The early voting period in Maryland has now ended, but we encourage all who are eligible to and have not yet voted to show up to the polls tomorrow, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and cast your ballot. For more information, please see UMBC’s Election Central website.
 
It may seem obvious, but it is important for us to remember that we do not all hold the same political views. That is a very good thing. We treasure the diversity of this community, which enriches us all and shapes the educational experience that UMBC provides. Please continue to hold close our shared values of inclusive excellence, respectful discourse, and civic engagement. Doing so can take many forms today and in the coming days. Among other things, it could be students expressing viewpoints respectfully, whether in the classroom or a social setting; it could be faculty setting clear expectations for discussion and leading by example; it could mean honoring others’ wishes to not discuss politics; or it could mean giving grace to friends, classmates, colleagues, and others who are struggling.  
 
Nationally, election-related stress has been building for months and is peaking now, and our community members are likely feeling a range of emotions. After the polls close, emotions will still be wide-ranging, perhaps for quite some time. Beyond election-related stress, it also is true that we are in what is always a busy time of the semester, when workloads are heavy and deadlines loom large. Please use and share these resources:

Resources for Care and Support
Employee Assistance Program
Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion, and Belonging (i3b)
Office of Equity and Civil Rights
Retriever Integrated Health
 
Resources for Building Support for Social Change and Constructive Dialogue for Dissenting Views
Center for Democracy and Civic Life
Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion, and Belonging (i3b)
Using Your Voice
Center for Social Justice Dialogue
 
We are grateful every day for this community and for the commitment of our students, faculty, and staff to being engaged and informed global citizens. You know that your voice matters and that it is our shared responsibility to attend to our community and our democracy. Thank you for your dedication and care.
 
Sincerely,
 
President Valerie Sheares Ashby
 
Manfred H. M. van Dulmen
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
]]> Dear UMBC Community,   Tomorrow is a milestone occasion in our civic life and, no matter the outcomes, a historic event. On the eve of Election Day, we write with a reminder of our values as an... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/145327/guest@my.umbc.edu/3e4bdc1a758d8457651212f0d3642b05/api/pixel president Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 6 0 false Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:05:22 -0500 Toward a New Strategic Plan for UMBC Introducing a steering committee and process for 2024-25
Dear UMBC Community, 

As I shared with you at the Fall Opening Meeting, this semester we will re-engage with the work to develop the next strategic plan for UMBC. Strategic planning is an important process in any organization and provides an opportunity to focus the work we do together to best serve our students and community. Strategic planning is also an opportunity to be visionary, to envision UMBC’s future together and determine how we can be a catalyst in advancing higher education. Having led several strategic planning efforts, I have seen how this process can bring out the best in an organization and its people, and I so much look forward to working with you on the strategic plan. 

Your input is essential, and we will be including the broad UMBC community in a variety of ways throughout this year-long process. Such opportunities build on the work that so many of you shared throughout the past year, including the 22 Bold Conversations that saw more than 1,000 participants engage in discussions about UMBC’s distinctive strengths, its challenges, and our aspirations for the future. In addition, there are many other initiatives currently going on—for example, the Middle States Self-Study and the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification Self-Study—that will help inform the great opportunities we have as a UMBC community to set a course for the future. As we move forward with the strategic planning process, we will also ensure that our goals and priorities align with the University System of Maryland's Vision 2030 plan and the Maryland Higher Education Commission goals. 

Throughout my first four months at UMBC, it has been clear to me that one of UMBC’s key strengths is its people—their dedication, commitment, and innovative mindset. I have worked over these months to develop an approach to strategic planning, and to help lead this work, I have engaged a strategic plan steering committee, which I will chair, comprising these members: 

  • Renique T. Kersh, Vice President, Student Affairs (vice chair)
  • Aminah Amjad, Vice President, Graduate Student Association
  • Tanyka M. Barber, Vice President, Institutional Equity and Chief Diversity Officer
  • Meghna Chandrasekaran, President, Student Government Association 
  • Nancy Kusmaul, Associate Professor, Social Work and President, Faculty Senate 
  • Yvette Mozie-Ross ’88, Vice Provost, Enrollment Management and Planning
  • Christopher P. Steele, Vice Provost, Professional Studies
  • Karl V. Steiner, Vice President, Research and Creative Achievement
  • Shannon Tinney Lichtinger, Director, Institutional Research (strategic planning project manager)
  • Yaakov “Jake” Weissmann ’06, Vice President, Government Relations and Community Affairs

In the coming weeks, we will share additional information about our timeline for this process, including opportunities for the campus community to be involved in shaping UMBC’s next strategic plan. 

Until then, thank you for your continued commitment and investment of time and energy into ensuring that UMBC is ready for its bright future ahead. 

Sincerely, 

Manfred H. M. van Dulmen 
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs 

]]> Dear UMBC Community,  As I shared with you at the Fall Opening Meeting, this semester we will re-engage with the work to develop the next strategic plan for UMBC. Strategic planning is an... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/145240/guest@my.umbc.edu/44905b9855c456c3f32e918c893fd15f/api/pixel strategic-planning Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 2 0 false Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:37:47 -0400 Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:50:39 -0500 Reports of Antisemitic Incidents on Campus ECR and UMBC Police are responding
Dear UMBC Community,
 
The Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR) has received reports of two antisemitic incidents occurring on campus over the past month, which involved students walking and being targeted by an unidentified occupant of a black vehicle shouting antisemitic language at them.
 
UMBC Police are responding by increasing patrols on and around campus, as well as working with Baltimore County police to ensure the safety of our community members.
 
We encourage all community members to report incidents of bias, harassment, or discrimination through the ECR online reporting form, by emailing ecr@umbc.edu, or by calling 410-455-1717. Call 410-455-5555 or 911 for emergencies, and please use the emergency blue light phones throughout campus to connect to the 24-hour UMBC Police Communications Center.
 
If you are concerned about your safety walking on or near campus, please call 410-455-5555 to request a safety escort by a uniformed police officer or student police aide.
 
Thank you for your attention and support in our collective effort to create and sustain a campus community that is welcoming and safe for all.
 
Sincerely,
 
Tanyka M. Barber
Vice President for Institutional Equity and Chief Diversity Officer
 
Bruce Perry
UMBC Chief of Police

]]> Dear UMBC Community,   The Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR) has received reports of two antisemitic incidents occurring on campus over the past month, which involved students walking and... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144959/guest@my.umbc.edu/9a9bdd5897221fab391573723624d6a4/api/pixel Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 4 0 false Mon, 21 Oct 2024 16:02:01 -0400 UMBC Poll, new election website, affirm UMBC commitment to civic engagement

UMBC has launched two exciting new Election 2024 resources that affirm the university’s commitment to civic engagement and benefit both our campus community and the greater Maryland region.

UMBC Poll

As a public university, UMBC takes pride in providing high quality research and analysis that serves the greater good. In August, UMBC launched the Institute of Politics (IoP) to bring more political research and insights into Maryland elections. The inaugural UMBC Poll, released in two parts on October 8 and 9, surveyed residents and voters in the Baltimore metro region and   statewide, and gauged the attitudes of Maryland adults and voters on topics critical to the coming election such as candidate preferences for U.S. Senate and Presidential matchups, job approval ratings for Governor Wes Moore, key economic indicators, and issues and reasons driving voter choices.

Featuring the expertise of IoP Director Mileah Kromer, the inaugural UMBC Poll was covered widely in state and national news outlets, including the New York Times,  Baltimore Sun, the Washington Post, and Fox News.

Election Central

Also in October, UMBC launched Election Central, a website that provides visitors with relevant information to participate in the coming election. The site includes links to voter registration, guidelines about exercising free speech on campus, and a civic engagement toolkit where students and others can find voting information, mail-in ballot drop-off locations on campus, and more.

The civic participation information on Election Central is largely the work of UMBC’s Center for Democracy and Civic Life, a student-facing campus organization that helps individuals and groups develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to contribute to a thriving democracy.

Election Central also contains resources for the news media, with information on UMBC faculty, staff, and students who are ready to speak to reporters about election-related issues.

Students like Vunnathi Ankem, a psychology major, Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar, and vice president of the Honors College Council, says projects like Election Central help students take their rightful seat at the public affairs table.

“College students have access to a wealth of knowledge,” says Ankem, “It is both our right and responsibility to serve our communities when we can.”

]]> UMBC has launched two exciting new Election 2024 resources that affirm the university’s commitment to civic engagement and benefit both our campus community and the greater Maryland region. UMBC... https://umbc.edu/stories/new-umbc-poll-election-website-civic-engagement/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144747/guest@my.umbc.edu/c200bfe850039b57ff5ffd725d078ad1/api/pixel Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 21 0 false Mon, 14 Oct 2024 11:02:01 -0400 Title IX Training Sessions Announced Training required for all employees by December 12
Dear UMBC Community,

Pursuant to UMBC’s Interim Policy on Sex Discrimination, Sex-Based Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct, which was updated on August 1, 2024, the Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR) will begin offering live Title IX training sessions for all UMBC employees. 

As outlined in the campus announcement sent on September 5, 2024, the policy was updated to require all employees, including faculty, staff, and student employees, to complete annual Title IX training. 

As such, employees must attend the “Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities Under Title IX” training facilitated by ECR no later than December 12, 2024. 

The training will cover topics such as an overview of ECR and applicable policies and procedures, what constitutes prohibited conduct under University policy, responding to a disclosure, procedures for reporting and resolving reports of prohibited conduct, trauma-informed care, and confidentiality.

The training session will last approximately 50 minutes. The dates and times for virtual and in-person training sessions offered through October 16 are posted on the Office of Equity and Civil Rights’ myUMBC group. Please register for a session as soon as possible, as seating is limited. Additional training session dates and times will be announced via the myUMBC group and posted on October 7, 2024. 

Additional information regarding the training may be found on ECR’s Training FAQ webpage. If you still have questions, please contact ECR at ECRTraining@umbc.edu.

Sincerely, 

Marcus Foster
Assistant Vice President for Equity and Civil Rights and Title IX Coordinator

]]> Dear UMBC Community, Pursuant to UMBC’s Interim Policy on Sex Discrimination, Sex-Based Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct, which was updated on August 1, 2024, the Office of Equity and Civil... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144493/guest@my.umbc.edu/01b5e9c46c5476eb793c1781ffdf90a5/api/pixel Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 2 0 false Fri, 04 Oct 2024 11:35:51 -0400 Have You Seen This Year’s GRIT-X Speakers? Part of Homecoming 2024!
A Homecoming staple since 2016, this year GRIT-X is going to be bigger than ever before—so we had to move it to its own day. Join us on Thursday, October 24 from 4 – 6 p.m. as we celebrate the passion and accomplishments of UMBC alumni, faculty, and graduate students in the areas of research, scholarship, and creative achievement. 

After the talks, you’re invited to join us for a special reception and showcase co-sponsored by bwtech@UMBC.

Click Here to Register for GRIT-X


FEATURED SPEAKERS


Stefanie Mavronis ’12, political science, media and communication studies 
Director, Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE), City of Baltimore

Making the Impossible Real – Homegrown Leadership and Violence Prevention in Baltimore


Todd Pittman 
Professor, Physics
Director, QSI 

Quantum Entanglement – From Fundamental Physics to an Information Revolution


Guenet Abraham 
Professor, Visual Arts

Typography – The Elements of a Word


Aryya Gangopadhyay
Professor, Information Systems; Director, Center for Real-time Distributed Sensing and Autonomy (CARDS)

Where Humans Can’t Go – Human Robot Teaming


G. Derek Musgrove ‘97, history 
Professor, History

From "Protest to Politics" to Protest and Politics – The Black Freedom Struggle in the 1980s 


Takashi Yamashita 
Professor, Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Health; Gerontology Doctoral Program 

When Does Our Education End? – Aging and Life Course Perspectives


Patricia Ordóñez, M.S. ’10, Ph.D. ’12, Computer Science 
Associate Professor, Information Systems

Why Moms Should Be Leaders in Computing Education


Mehdi Benna 
Research Scientist, Center for Space Sciences and Technology

Taking a New “Small Step for Man” – The Giant Leap of Our Generation


Tamra Mendelson
Professor, Biological Sciences

The Biology of Beauty – How the Peacock Got Its Tail


Sponsored by the Office of Research and Creative Achievement 

For the full Homecoming event line-up, visit homecoming.umbc.edu
]]> A Homecoming staple since 2016, this year GRIT-X is going to be bigger than ever before—so we had to move it to its own day. Join us on Thursday, October 24 from 4 – 6 p.m. as we celebrate the... https://research.umbc.edu/grit-x/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/143978/guest@my.umbc.edu/31472c55e98101533f69185245c5902d/api/pixel grit-x homecoming Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/xxlarge.jpg?1726583432 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/xlarge.jpg?1726583432 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/large.jpg?1726583432 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/medium.jpg?1726583432 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/small.jpg?1726583432 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/xsmall.jpg?1726583432 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/143/978/b5c0d2c0f9532d13d8230d4c838204ff/xxsmall.jpg?1726583432 1 0 true Thu, 03 Oct 2024 08:35:00 -0400 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 08:54:53 -0400 Care and Compassion For Our Community Resources for Support
Dear UMBC Community,
 
With the semester now in full swing and the impacts of many national and international issues and events being felt deeply by our campus community members, I write today to express my support and my belief in this community and share a reminder of resources available to you. 
 
UMBC’s values—among them, its rich diversity of perspectives and backgrounds and its commitment to respectful discourse—are the strong foundation upon which this community was built and continues to thrive. I see our students, faculty, and staff living these values every day. It is in times of challenge, including when events on or beyond our campus threaten to divide us, and when members of our community are struggling, that we are reminded of the responsibility that comes with the privilege of being a member of this community: to care for it, and for each other. 
 
Resources exist for helping us do just that, and many are listed below. Please seek them. In addition, beginning this week, i3b and the Gathering Space for Spiritual Well-Being are hosting a series of shared spaces for reflection, partnering weekly with UMBC staff and Religious Council members. Separately, UMBC Counseling staff will be available in Commons 327 from noon to 2 p.m. on October 7. If you or someone you know has an immediate concern, please contact Retriever CARE.
 
I ask all members of our community to be mindful that classmates and colleagues may be struggling and to show one another a generous amount of grace and compassion in the days and weeks ahead. 
 
I offer another reminder and a caution, as well: It is our collective work to ensure that every member of our community feels safe, welcome, and valued. We do not tolerate harassment, bias, or discrimination. I ask that you review the relevant policies listed below, and I urge you to report incidents through the Office of Equity and Civil Rights' online reporting form, by emailing ecr@umbc.edu, or by calling 410-455-1717.
 
We are living in consequential and complicated times, to be sure. We see human suffering across all of society, and some days, the good news is hard to find. But there is good news every day on this campus, and inspiration in our educational mission and the dedication of our students, faculty, and staff to contribute to the betterment of humanity. I am proud of and grateful for UMBC.
 
Sincerely,
 
President Valerie Sheares Ashby 
 
 
Resources for Care and Support
 
Resources for Building Support for Social Change and Constructive Dialogue for Dissenting Views
 
Campus Safety and Security
 
UMBC Policies and Other Resources
 

]]> Dear UMBC Community,   With the semester now in full swing and the impacts of many national and international issues and events being felt deeply by our campus community members, I write today... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144404/guest@my.umbc.edu/bbcc2f08606eee6a88342d3d35ff2ee8/api/pixel president Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 5 0 false Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:41:40 -0400 Updates to Campus Policies
Dear UMBC Community,

In our effort to continue to ensure that our policies are clear and effective, I write to inform you that the interim policy on time, place, and manner for expressive activities is now available in the policy index. 

Interim Policy on Time, Place, and Manner for Expressive Activities
The Supreme Court provides public institutions with discretion to determine the time, place, and manner of expressive activities. This policy, in alignment with the USM Freedom of Speech Value Statement and Guidelines, provides guidance on specific requirements related to expressive activity on our campus.  

Key provisions include:
  • Clear timelines and expectations for alerting campus administration of expressive activity
  • Designated and preferred demonstration areas where expressive activities can occur for university and non-university affiliates
  • Details on requirements when engaging in expressive activity to ensure there is not disruption to the business function of the university and to ensure ingress and egress areas are clear and accessible
  • Clear definitions for planned or spontaneous expressive activity
  • Conditions for facility use and signage

This policy is designated as interim to allow opportunities for shared governance review during the fall and spring semesters. The policy can be found here.

Sincerely,

Manfred H. M. van Dulmen
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs

Renique T. Kersh
Vice President for Student Affairs

]]> Dear UMBC Community, In our effort to continue to ensure that our policies are clear and effective, I write to inform you that the interim policy on time, place, and manner for expressive... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144368/guest@my.umbc.edu/0ba2995cbdffea73e1de6a68f256397d/api/pixel Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 6 0 false Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:21:16 -0400 UMBC’s Annual Security & Fire Safety Report Review UMBC’s policies related to campus security
Dear UMBC Community,

Each fall, the UMBC Police Department publishes the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report. I encourage you to take a few moments to review this important material.

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Police and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998 ("Clery Act"), this message constitutes notification for our campus community of the availability of the 2024 Annual Security & Fire Safety Report.

This report contains crime and fire statistics that were reported to the UMBC Police Department and/or Campus Security Authorities for the most recent three years. Please note that this report tracks incidents based on location–specifically those reported to have occurred on campus, in non-campus university buildings, in property owned or controlled by the university, or on public property immediately adjacent to the campus.

The report also includes information regarding UMBC policies and practices related to campus security and crime reporting. We encourage all members of our community to report security incidents; the report describes how and to whom crimes should be reported.

In addition, the report contains information on campus resources and educational programs, personal safety tips, emergency response and evacuation, and policies regarding student discipline.

The UMBC Police Department appreciates that all members of our community–students, faculty, and staff–are essential partners in making UMBC a safe place to learn, live, and work. The UMBC community's active interest in campus safety is one of our best crime prevention assets.

Copies of the report are also available at the UMBC Police Station, or by emailing clery@umbc.edu.

Respectfully,

Bruce Perry '97, UMBC Chief of Police

]]> Dear UMBC Community, Each fall, the UMBC Police Department publishes the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report. I encourage you to take a few moments to review this important material.... https://police.umbc.edu/clery/asr/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144357/guest@my.umbc.edu/209801f368b11a6cd018f0433e033d04/api/pixel Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 1 0 false Tue, 01 Oct 2024 08:38:59 -0400 Respond to a Survey on Community Engagement
Dear UMBC Community, 
 
We are conducting a self-study to renew our classification as a Carnegie Community Engaged campus. The classification reflects who we are as an institution of higher learning. Community engagement is embedded in UMBC’s vision and mission. It defines and activates our values of inclusive excellence, social justice, civic engagement, and service for the public good. It also affirms our collaborative approach to teaching, scholarship, and service, in partnerships that range from local to global. This campus-wide self-study is an opportunity for UMBC to further elevate community engagement in our strategic plan for the future.
 
Your timely response by October 15, 2024, to a short survey will ensure that the story we tell is comprehensive and inclusive. The survey will take no more than two minutes of your time. 
 
Thank you for your participation.

Sincerely,

Manfred H. M. van Dulmen
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
]]> Dear UMBC Community,    We are conducting a self-study to renew our classification as a Carnegie Community Engaged campus. The classification reflects who we are as an institution of higher... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/144150/guest@my.umbc.edu/c12e7b73e083e9e5f21af933a1662fcc/api/pixel Announcements - Campus https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/original.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xlarge.png?1691177756 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/large.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/medium.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/small.png?1691177756 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xsmall.png?1691177756 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/002/082/f861304a6d022c22e70244ebc8f87f49/xxsmall.png?1691177756 Announcements - Campus 0 0 false Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:43:09 -0400