Happy Monday: Inspiration and Energy in Annapolis

Three leaders, a man and two women in business attire, pose at an event.L-R: Senator Charles Sydnor, III, M.P.S ’00, Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk, and President Sheares Ashby
Dear UMBC Community,
It was a delight to be joined recently by many students, faculty, and staff at the Annapolis reception that UMBC and our alumni legislators (of which there are many!) co-host each year. The event celebrates the new General Assembly session and our work together in support of UMBC and the State of Maryland.
This year’s reception was particularly special, as we honored Speaker Emerita Adrienne A. Jones ’76 and her historic tenure as leader of the House of Delegates. Amid keynote remarks from Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk and visits with numerous delegates, senators, cabinet members, and other public officials (including former UMBC vice president, now Secretary of Budget and Management Yaakov “Jake” Weissmann ’06), I heard again and again a deep appreciation for UMBC and its valuable mission in service of Maryland.
I hear that same appreciation and support in the many one-on-one meetings I have in Annapolis—meetings that will number more than 50 during this session and are an important part of our advocacy and engagement with lawmakers and officials every year. In this time of intense challenges—ongoing federal pressures, a state budget deficit, and more—these dedicated public servants tell me they are inspired and energized by seeing firsthand the good that UMBC and Maryland’s other universities are doing for our state. In all these meetings and gatherings, throughout many busy days in Annapolis, it is meaningful and joyful to be able to share the stories of the transformative power of UMBC.
Sincerely,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby

]]> L-R: Senator Charles Sydnor, III, M.P.S ’00, Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk, and President Sheares Ashby Dear UMBC Community, It was a delight to be joined recently by many students, faculty, and... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156826/guest@my.umbc.edu/43e98335ae466c222804cea1339d7069/api/pixel happy-monday 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, 23 Feb 2026 09:54:25 -0500 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:12:38 -0400 UMBC Physical Campus Closed Monday, February 23, 2026

Dear Campus Community,

UMBC's physical campus will be closed tomorrow, Monday, February 23, 2026, due to inclement weather. All in-person and remote (synchronous) classes will resume on Tuesday, February 24. Asynchronous online classes will occur as scheduled. All in-person events will be canceled. 

Residential students should refer to the campus dining calendar for updated dining hours.

Essential personnel should report to campus as scheduled. Please review the Inclement Weather and Emergency Closing Guide to learn more about employee leave during closures. If you have a telework or remote agreement you should work virtually unless arrangements have been made with your supervisor. We ask that supervisors be flexible as conditions change and responsibilities vary; allowing an adaptable schedule or liberal leave for employees who are working virtually is appropriate. Please communicate with your immediate supervisor if you have any questions about whether to come to campus or if you need alternative accommodations due to weather conditions in your local area. Your safety is our top priority.

Sincerely,

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

Lynne Adams
Associate Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer


]]> Dear Campus Community, UMBC's physical campus will be closed tomorrow, Monday, February 23, 2026, due to inclement weather. All in-person and remote (synchronous) classes will resume on Tuesday,... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156805/guest@my.umbc.edu/4b97b6f97fd0ac221ed8167c2c56d2f0/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 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 20:28:05 -0500 UMBC Physical Campus Closing at 6 p.m. Tonight

Dear Campus Community,

UMBC's physical campus will be closed tonight, Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 6 p.m. due to inclement weather. Evening events will be canceled. The dining hall (True Grit's), including the market, will remain open until 8 p.m. for student use.

Decisions regarding Monday's status will be communicated later.

Sincerely,

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


]]> Dear Campus Community, UMBC's physical campus will be closed tonight, Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 6 p.m. due to inclement weather. Evening events will be canceled. The dining hall (True... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156799/guest@my.umbc.edu/0216687b80b406fc879c147be92cc134/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 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 12:28:18 -0500 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 13:20:17 -0500 Update from the UMBC Core Team - Federal Immigration Enforcement General Information Card and FAQs
Dear UMBC Community,

The UMBC Core Team, a team composed of senior leadership that meets weekly to discuss updates related to all facets of federal policy changes, is writing about two items created to provide additional support and clarity regarding federal immigration enforcement: 1) a general information card, should a UMBC community member encounter a federal immigration enforcement agent, and 2) FAQs, which expand upon the items on the card.

You can now find a printable version of the general information card on the Federal Orders and Actions site; you will see a link to the printable card on the “Campus Communications” section of the home page. Click on the yellow box underneath the card that says “View General Information PDF” and you can print it from the screen that displays both the front and back of the card.

The related FAQs are the first questions and answers listed in the FAQs section on the same page.

The general information cards are currently being printed and will be available in several offices across campus soon; once the cards are available, we will send an update to campus.

Thank you.

Regards,

The UMBC Core Team
Valerie Sheares Ashby, President
Manfred H. M. van Dulmen, Provost and Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs
Tanyka M. Barber, Vice President, Institutional Equity and Chief Diversity Officer
Kacey Hammel, Chief of Staff to the President
Renique T. Kersh, Vice President, Student Affairs
Paul A. Meggett, Vice President and General Counsel
D. Paul Monteiro, Vice President, Government Relations and Community Affairs
Karl V. Steiner, Vice President, Research and Creative Achievement
Lisa K. Van Riper, Vice President, University Communications and Marketing
David L. Di Maria, Vice Provost, Global Engagement

Yvette Mozie-Ross '88, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management and Planning
Ana Oskoz, Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs



]]> Dear UMBC Community, The UMBC Core Team, a team composed of senior leadership that meets weekly to discuss updates related to all facets of federal policy changes, is writing about two items... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156709/guest@my.umbc.edu/7cb83d436629279c53807e6a87f2d497/api/pixel federal-orders 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 10 0 false Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:05:08 -0500 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:03:32 -0500 Happy Monday: The Transformative Power of Our Community
A student with a Retriever lanyard around her neck stands with President Sheares Ashby in front of a bookcase.
Dear UMBC Community,

With today’s message, I am doing something slightly different. I do not often focus on a single individual in this space, but I want to share a reflection that reminded me why our work matters so deeply.

Recently, I held my first student office hours of the semester. Sitting with our students is always one of the most meaningful parts of my week. During one of those conversations, I was reminded of the extraordinary journeys unfolding across this campus every day.

Camryn has visited my office hours in semesters past. She is now a senior, and her first semester at UMBC was also my first. In many ways, we began our UMBC journeys at the same time. Watching her growth over these years has been a privilege. She has found her voice, clarified her intellectual interests, and embraced opportunities with curiosity and courage.

A visual arts major with concentrations in animation and modern languages and linguistics, she has launched a student organization, completed internships, worked as a content developer and videographer, and immersed herself fully in campus life. Her path reflects initiative and imagination. More importantly, it reflects the support of faculty who mentor, staff who guide, peers who collaborate, and a community that makes space for exploration and growth.

Camryn’s story is powerful. But it is not singular. Across UMBC, students are discovering who they are, stretching beyond what they thought possible, and experiencing the kind of transformation that defines higher education at its best. That transformation does not happen by accident. It happens because of the care, commitment, and daily dedication of this community.

Moments like these remind me that what we do here changes lives. And that is something worth celebrating.

With appreciation,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

]]> Dear UMBC Community, With today’s message, I am doing something slightly different. I do not often focus on a single individual in this space, but I want to share a reflection that reminded me... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156599/guest@my.umbc.edu/f18e7d3f0d1a276df478233afcb276cd/api/pixel happy-monday 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 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:51:04 -0500 Happy Monday: Belonging, Hope, and Our Shared Responsibility
Dear UMBC Community,

This weekend, I had the opportunity to hear Karsonya Wise Whitehead, Ph.D. ’09, widely known as “Dr. Kaye,” who earned her doctorate in language, literacy, and culture from UMBC. She is a powerful voice for equity and community in Baltimore and beyond, and a nationally recognized educator, author, and award-winning radio host. She reminded us of the importance of hoping even when it is hard, staying committed to the long work of building inclusive and just communities, and having the courage to live our values with integrity and purpose.

Her words stayed with me as I reflected on this moment we are living in together. Many people are carrying uncertainty, fatigue, and unease. In times like these, recognizing and honoring one another’s humanity is more important than ever.

I am proud to lead this institution not because we do everything perfectly, but because we are striving to become a place where there is no hierarchy of human value, and I see progress daily. I see large and small efforts to listen, learn, and move us steadily forward. This work happens through teaching and research, service and leadership, and daily acts of care and consideration. It is essential to fulfilling our mission and enabling each member of our community to do their very best work.

In my role, I aspire to lead in ways that will reflect our shared belief in excellence that comes from each of us showing up fully as ourselves and making space for others to do the same. I hope to lead in a way that creates an environment where the value of every individual is clear, where support is real, and where each of you is empowered to thrive in teaching, research, and service.

As we begin this new week, please know this: You belong here. Your work matters. Your presence makes a difference. And this is what gives me hope—not simply naming inclusive excellence, but the actions each of us takes every day to make that a reality. I am excited about the work ahead and honored to be your partner in it.

With deep appreciation,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

]]> Dear UMBC Community, This weekend, I had the opportunity to hear Karsonya Wise Whitehead, Ph.D. ’09, widely known as “Dr. Kaye,” who earned her doctorate in language, literacy, and culture... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156347/guest@my.umbc.edu/feffd05809a1bfced9f6786f273afad1/api/pixel happy-monday 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 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 10:36:06 -0500 One Voice: Middle States Accreditation Updates
Dear UMBC Community,

As you may know, UMBC has been engaged in self-study over the past two years in preparation for the Middle States Higher Education Commission (MSCHE) reaccreditation process. This spring, the work will come to a conclusion with a site visit by the self-study evaluation team from March 8 – 11. Because the evaluation team could call upon any members of the community for questions during this time, it is important that all divisions ready themselves for potential participation.

Through this email, we would like to share information and tools to help you prepare. 

Understanding the Accreditation Process
Every eight years, UMBC is required to engage in self-study to reaffirm our accreditation through MSCHE, demonstrating that we meet the MSCHE standards of accreditation and requirements of affiliation. This multi-year process focuses on UMBC’s mission, goals, and accomplishments and identifies potential opportunities and areas for improvement. Our self-study report, titled “Our Commitment to Assessment: Advancing Inclusive Excellence and Elevating the Student Experience,” promotes diverse reflection and dialogue on our past accomplishments with the intention of shaping a thoughtful, forward-thinking vision for UMBC’s future.

Preparing for the Middle States Visit
  • Provided online is an overview of UMBC’s Middle States process, information on those who have contributed to this effort, and the MSCHE Standards of Accreditation and Requirements of Affiliation. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with our process and the self-study document in preparation for the upcoming evaluation visit. 
  • We have also included a one-sheet guide with tips for how to make a great impression during the evaluation team visit.
  • Not every community member will be called upon to speak with the team in March, but it will be important for those who are contacted to be available; consider clearing March 9 – 11, outside of scheduled classes, on your calendar today, just in case. 
  • Members of the Middle States core team will be reaching out to campus leaders and subject matter experts in the coming weeks for additional assistance in preparing for the visit.

Thank you in advance for your help as we conclude the accreditation evaluation team visit. Your contribution to this important process is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Co-Chairs, Self-Study Steering Committee
 
Connie Pierson ’90, M.A. ’92
Associate Vice Provost, Institutional Research, Analysis, and Decision Support
Accreditation Liaison Officer
 
Orianne Smith
Professor, English

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

]]> Dear UMBC Community, As you may know, UMBC has been engaged in self-study over the past two years in preparation for the Middle States Higher Education Commission (MSCHE) reaccreditation... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156246/guest@my.umbc.edu/f6fe8951f7aff67c4619dfd8c091d037/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 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 11:29:52 -0500 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:28:15 -0500 Starting the Spring Semester
Dear UMBC Community,
 
With the cold and wintry conditions that delayed the start of in-person classes by a week, it seems strange to refer to this as the spring semester! I hope that you all stayed warm and safe as we worked to resume normal campus operations.

I know that beyond our campus, the challenges in our nation and world are increasingly difficult and felt deeply by members of our community, whether you are affected directly or indirectly. As we begin this new semester together, I hope you will take advantage of every opportunity to lean on and lift up one another, and that the inspiring and essential public mission of UMBC helps sustain us and propel our work every day.

I hope, as well, that each of you found time to rest, reflect, and renew over the winter break. For me—someone who has essentially never left college—such breaks in the academic year are not only a much-needed respite, they also are energizing periods of reflection, planning, and prioritizing for the semester ahead.

After spending a few days with my family in North Carolina—where we gathered in full force, as always—I returned to Baltimore and got down to work. By the end of the break, as usual, my kitchen island was covered with piles of different colored sticky notes, each of them representing different priorities for me and for our leadership team. It looks pretty chaotic, but this is my process for getting to some order. It is what I do to start the semester with a clear sense of the work ahead, what comes next, and what is possible.

When I was a faculty member teaching organic chemistry, I would spend time before every semester thinking about my syllabus and the activities I was going to do in class. I would match pictures from the student directory with the names of those enrolled in my class, so that I would recognize them and be able to call them by name in class.

Today, I think about our students, staff, and faculty and our departments and units across UMBC. I think about our alumni and how I can engage them more deeply in the life of the university. I think about our neighbors in Catonsville and Arbutus, the city of Baltimore, and the state of Maryland, and how we can partner to address challenges and continue to improve our communities. I think about what went well in the last semester and what I could have done better. And I think about our future, mapping out the work I can do to keep us advancing toward our shared vision for UMBC.

One area of focus is the ongoing work by our core team to address the impacts of federal orders and actions on UMBC. I hope you all saw the recent message from Vice Provost for Global Engagement David Di Maria that shared updates related to immigration and visa policies. Please continue to visit our website concerning federal orders and actions frequently for the latest information and resources.

Finally, I want to celebrate and amplify a couple of pieces of terrific news: First, UMBC has again been classified as a Carnegie Community Engaged Campus, recognizing the university-wide commitment of our students, faculty, and staff to engage collaboratively in strengthening our communities. Congratulations and thanks to all who contribute to this work that is so deeply embedded in our identity and culture, and to all who played a part in the rigorous effort to achieve this classification from the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

I also want to extend a warm welcome and congratulations to our incoming dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, Christia Spears Brown. We are delighted to welcome Christia and looking forward to her leadership beginning in July.

My best to you all for a productive and fulfilling semester!

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

]]> Dear UMBC Community,   With the cold and wintry conditions that delayed the start of in-person classes by a week, it seems strange to refer to this as the spring semester! I hope that you all... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156116/guest@my.umbc.edu/36a6b8ebc6d9da5e3e8e26bb4759fcad/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 2 0 false Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:59:40 -0500 Happy Monday! First Day of Classes, Finally

snow lines the walkway leading to UMBC's Albin O. Kuhn Library

Dear UMBC Community,

It is my sincere pleasure to finally welcome everyone to the start of spring classes! With this Happy Monday message, I am carrying on the weekly personal reflections I began last fall, and this one is a huge thank-you note. In the wake of a storm that brought significant snow and ice and days of freezing temperatures, UMBC, like most institutions in our area, had to alter plans and work tirelessly to get us to today. 

Thank you to all who played a role—in caring for students, clearing pathways and parking lots, adjusting schedules, and pitching in and adapting in so many ways. I have had the privilege of seeing how you have risen to meet the challenges, and I am profoundly grateful. Happy first day of classes!  

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby


]]> Dear UMBC Community, It is my sincere pleasure to finally welcome everyone to the start of spring classes! With this Happy Monday message, I am carrying on the weekly personal reflections I began... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156076/guest@my.umbc.edu/13f6a6ffd3afb58ed65d35b3dcfefc6a/api/pixel happy-monday 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 7 0 false Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:31:40 -0500 Important Information Regarding Re-Opening of Physical Campus on Saturday

Dear UMBC Community,

UMBC's physical campus will re-open at 5 a.m., Saturday, January 31. We ask that community members keep the following information in mind as the university re-opens:

Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to clear roads and pathways to prepare for the full campus re-opening. We look forward to seeing you this coming week!

Sincerely,

John Zahor
Assistant Vice President, Facilities Management


]]> Dear UMBC Community, UMBC's physical campus will re-open at 5 a.m., Saturday, January 31. We ask that community members keep the following information in mind as the university re-opens: Main... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/156049/guest@my.umbc.edu/d3ad6fc3cd76f82fb900a0c9b28af23f/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, 30 Jan 2026 17:41:47 -0500 Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:41:48 -0500