April 10: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update
Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order.

For the most updated information and more information on actions to reduce COVID-19 risks in our community, please visit covid19.umbc.edu.

Student Services and Support

  • The Counseling Center is providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2472 for more information.
  • University Health Services is providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2542 for more information. 
  • The Behavioral Risk Assessment and Consultation Team (BRACT) assists faculty, staff and students address situations where a person is displaying concerning behavior. The team is designed to provide information, recommendations, and referrals.
  • Haven at UMBC recovery and sober living resources for students is now operating virtually.
  • The Stay Black and Gold Fund helps provide emergency assistance that supports well-being or academic success.
  • The Career Center will continue to provide services through alternative formats, including a virtual lobby Monday through Friday, 12 – 1 p.m.

Academic Continuity

  • There will be a Research Town Hall for students, faculty, and staff on April 17. More details to come.
  • Summer Session 2020 will be offered entirely online. The Office of Summer, Winter & Special Programs is working with academic departments to revise the schedule of classes to reflect changes in course delivery formats. Please monitor schedule updates at summer.umbc.edu.
  • Katherine Seley-Radtke, chemistry and biochemistry, talks to NPR about Hydroxychloroquine as a way to treat coronavirus.
  • Charissa Cheah, psychology, describes her research in The Washington Post on discrimination faced by Chinese Americans as a result of the coronavirus, and its roots in racist tropes.
  • Lia Purpura, English, was featured in The Baltimore Sun for her work to uplift her neighborhood.

Business Continuity and Staff Support

  • It is critical for UMBC to provide details to the University System of Maryland on the incurred COVID-19 expenses.  Please journal incurred expenses to your COVID-19 Project. For those Units that have not created a COVID-19 Project, please work with your Dean's office or Business Manager and review COVID-19 Expense Tracking. 
  • The ONE UMMS Emergency Staffing Pool is a Temporary Per Diem/PRN float pool that deploys additional resources to hospitals. Learn more here.
  • From this point forward, employees will not be reimbursed for purchases made during this period of telework without the proper documentation and prior approval from their supervisor. Email approvals are acceptable at this time. The University cannot reimburse for sales tax.

Facilities

  • Only employees with a letter from their supervisor or students that are approved for late stay should be on campus. If you have an emergency need to visit campus, call UMBC Police Deputy Chief Bruce Perry at 443-677-2195 or Lieutenant Derrick Johns at 410-207-0850.

#UMBCtogether

In the midst of challenging times, the UMBC community always finds ways to support each other. Check out how Retrievers are staying #UMBCtogether even though we’re physically apart:

https://twitter.com/UMBC_ACSA/status/1248619487072419842
https://twitter.com/womencenterumbc/status/1248251263973761028
https://twitter.com/umbcbookstore/status/1248249623874949120
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-znuqqn1tI/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-xQtbEJIhH/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-uwTt1hTEc/

If you have questions or concerns, please email covid19@umbc.edu.


]]> Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order. For the most updated information and... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/92095/guest@my.umbc.edu/4f9b2ad1da21d4781e2e990b01ce97fa/api/pixel UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 0 true Fri, 10 Apr 2020 17:36:58 -0400 Research Update and Town Hall April 17 Dear Members of the UMBC Research Community,

Thanks to all of you for quickly adapting to the challenges we now face and for your thoughtful approach in adjusting to the various rules that have been put in place to keep you and the rest of the campus community safe and healthy during this difficult period.

We recognize that the changes are significantly impacting progress in research, scholarship, and creative activities conducted by students and faculty and that we must take steps to mitigate this interruption in research activity.

As you know, UMBC, in coordination with the other research institutions in the University System of Maryland, transitioned into Research Maintenance Mode on March 18. Details on this transition are available on the UMBC Research web site. As a result, almost all of our research and studio facilities are currently in hibernation mode, with important specimens stored in freezers, valuable instruments placed in suspension mode, and countless experiments delayed or canceled. A very limited number of faculty and staff are currently accessing laboratories on an occasional basis to see that key research resources are secure and expensive instrumentation is maintained.

We are preparing for a dedicated Research Town Hall for Friday, April 17, to provide updates and answer your questions. Watch out for more details on this Research Town Hall shortly.

We thank the many of you who have looked for ways to help, including those involved in a grassroots effort to collect masks and other protective equipment and donate them for use by doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers who are on the frontlines fighting this disease. 

We are working closely with colleagues across the state and the nation – through APLU and other national organizations – to communicate with the federal agencies and explore options for supporting research, including supplements to existing awards. We are also tracking new opportunities for research directly related to COVID-19.  For instance, UMB’s Institute for Clinical and Translational Research (ICTR) has launched a new call specifically for collaborative ATIP proposals related to COVID-19 research, including prevention, control, and response efforts.

The Research Office continues to be open for business – all of our OVPR staff are well versed in working remotely. Please reach out to your departmental business manager or grants and contracts manager with any questions related to proposal preparation and submission. Please check our On-Campus Research at UMBC during COVID-19 web page for additional links.

We are in the process of establishing guiding principles and steps to re-open research labs and studio facilities when it is safe to do so. We appreciate your understanding that we will need to carefully stage the re-opening of our research and studio facilities once this is possible.

Finally, we know that a growing number of faculty and departments have set up virtual brown bag lunches and even happy hours for their lab teams and their departments. We are inspired learning about these and other efforts to keep our community of researchers, scholars, and especially graduate students, connected and engaged.

Together, we will get through this challenge.  Stay healthy.

Freeman Hrabowski, President
Philip Rous, Provost
Karl V. Steiner, Vice President for Research ]]> Dear Members of the UMBC Research Community, Thanks to all of you for quickly adapting to the challenges we now face and for your thoughtful approach in adjusting to the various rules that have... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/92068/guest@my.umbc.edu/147835b03b715073e42fc1a16d9ed934/api/pixel covid19 UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 0 true Fri, 10 Apr 2020 09:58:07 -0400 Fri, 10 Apr 2020 12:16:45 -0400 URCAD will be online, April 22 – 29 Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day UMBC’s 24th annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) was originally scheduled for April 22, 2020. While we are no longer able to host this event on campus due to the current crisis, we are excited to announce that URCAD will instead occur online and extend through the entire week of April 22 – 29.

This year’s URCAD will be supported by a technology called VoiceThread (VT), a platform for flexible, media-rich conversations that can occur anytime, anywhere. Attendees will be able to see students' research posters and slides, as well as art, performances, films, and video games, online throughout the week. Members of our UMBC community will be encouraged to leave video, voice, or text feedback for the presenters. Student presenters will be able to respond directly to questions and receive feedback during the week-long event.

We hope to preserve the spirit of URCAD and make this a meaningful and celebratory event for our campus community. We look forward to connecting with you all.

Please visit urcad.umbc.edu for updates.

April Householder, Director of Undergraduate Research and Prestigious Scholarships ]]> UMBC’s 24th annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) was originally scheduled for April 22, 2020. While we are no longer able to host this event on campus due to the... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/92003/guest@my.umbc.edu/f6cd77a7f5254201bb696d1d3f195e0f/api/pixel UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 0 true Thu, 09 Apr 2020 10:06:11 -0400 April 8: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update
Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order.

For the most updated information and more information on actions to reduce COVID-19 risks in our community, please visit covid19.umbc.edu.

Student Services and Support

  • April is Career Month and many events are being hosted online. Visit the Career Center to learn more. 
  • The Counseling Center is offering a Coping with COVID webinar. They will be providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2472 for more information.
  • University Health Services is providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2542 for more information.

Academic Continuity

  • Summer Session 2020 will be offered entirely online. The Office of Summer, Winter & Special Programs is working with academic departments to revise the schedule of classes to reflect changes in course delivery formats. Please monitor schedule updates at summer.umbc.edu.
  • If you have items checked out from the library, please disregard any automated notices you receive from the Library during this time. Please do not attempt to return your materials until the physical campus reopens. No fines or fees will accrue during this closure. The Library & Gallery staff have compiled a list of resources you can access even though the building is closed. 

Business Continuity and Staff Support

  • From this point forward, employees will not be reimbursed for purchases made during this period of telework without the proper documentation and prior approval from their supervisor. Email approvals are acceptable at this time. The University cannot reimburse for sales tax.
  • Updates related to Dependent Care Flexible Spending during COVID19 and SRA retirement withdrawal and loan options under the Federal CARES Act can be found in the Health & Wellness FAQ's on the HR website.  
  • Lucy Wilson, emergency health services, explains best practices for using paper and cloth masks.
  • The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has launched a Maryland Coronavirus (COVID-19) Rumor Control Page.

Facilities

  • Only employees with a letter from their supervisor or students that are approved for late stay should be on campus. If you have an emergency need to visit campus, call UMBC Police Deputy Chief Bruce Perry at 443-677-2195 or Lieutenant Derrick Johns at 410-207-0850.

#UMBCtogether

In the midst of challenging times, the UMBC community always finds ways to support each other. 

Please take a moment to celebrate the winners of the Presidential Faculty and Staff Awards. We recognize and appreciate all they have done, and continue to do, to support the University and our students. Please take a moment to reach out to these community members and congratulate them on their accomplishments.

Check out how Retrievers are staying #UMBCtogether even though we’re physically apart:

https://twitter.com/UMBCAthletics/status/1247571985430962177
https://twitter.com/ChipUMBC/status/1247265175629160451
https://twitter.com/umbcbookstore/status/1247540163984515080
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-r-KIpHYM7/

If you have questions or concerns, please email covid19@umbc.edu.

]]> Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order. For the most updated information and... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91994/guest@my.umbc.edu/a1a98ec0e5b84d4efe4f38651378daa2/api/pixel covid19update UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 0 true Wed, 08 Apr 2020 18:00:33 -0400 Sherman Center announces 2019-20 research fellows

The Sherman Center for Early Learning in Urban Communities is pleased to announce its 2019-20 research fellows. Two projects were selected for funding - one led by Dr. Patricia Young, associate professor of education, and the other led by Dr. Jane Lincove, associate professor of public policy at UMBC.

Dr. Young and co-investigator, Ms. Deborah Kariuki (Master of Arts in Education Graduate Program, UMBC), will conduct a yearlong study entitled, Infusing a Culture-based Computational Thinking Curriculum in Urban Preschools. They will work with Judy Center faculty and staff at Lakeland Elementary/Middle School to improve young learners’ computational thinking, thereby enhancing their problem solving skills and creativity. Dr. Young and Ms. Kariuki will develop, and with preschool teachers, test the Culture-based Computational Thinking Curriculum and instructional materials. In addition, they will design a parents’ guide to computational thinking for young learners.

Dr. Lincove with co-investigators, Dr. Lieny Jeon (Johns Hopkins University) and Ms. Sarah Bollard (Baltimore City Public Schools), will conduct a three-year study entitled, Judy Centers in Baltimore: Improving Data-Informed Decisions. This study will develop a new database from existing sources to investigate the effect of Judy Center services on young children’s kindergarten readiness, the relative effectiveness of different Judy Center programs and services, and the potential for measuring outcomes for children before they enter kindergarten. In addition to improving early childhood data systems and infrastructure, this project will produce relevant research for policy and program improvements.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Young, Dr. Lincove, and their co-investigators.


The Sherman Center request for proposals for the 2020-21 funding cycle will be announced in September and proposals will be due in February 2021. For more information, please contact Dr. Mavis Sanders, Sherman Center Director, at msanders@umbc.edu. ]]> The Sherman Center for Early Learning in Urban Communities is pleased to announce its 2019-20 research fellows. Two projects were selected for funding - one led by Dr. Patricia Young, associate... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91978/guest@my.umbc.edu/9e962cae86e41fe47e0a55a0da235b3c/api/pixel UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 4 1 true Wed, 08 Apr 2020 14:07:01 -0400 We are listening: Updates on Commencement Dear UMBC Community,

Now more than ever, we are reminded of the many ways in which our community achieves excellence. Over the past few weeks, we have seen you demonstrate resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering resolve to help solve problems. We’ve watched as students, faculty, and staff have found new ways to build and sustain community during these uncertain times. Thank you for your creativity, patience, and compassion. 

It’s been nearly three weeks since we wrote to share the unfortunate and disappointing news that we will not be able to hold in-person commencement ceremonies this spring. We invited you to work with us to find the best way to celebrate the many achievements of the Class of 2020, and we’ve been inspired by the thoughtful response. Over the past few weeks, we have heard from many students, parents, and colleagues about their concerns, and also their visions for how we recognize our graduates. More than 600 students responded to a survey and shared a range of ideas that have helped our team make important decisions and move forward.

Overwhelmingly, our students still want to celebrate in May, and we agree. We will be using a novel technology platform to host virtual commencement celebrations in May. Details will be available in the coming weeks at commencement.umbc.edu.

In addition to virtual celebrations, we are working with students, faculty, and staff in our shared governance approach to consider a range of options for an in-person event at a later time. We will keep you informed as we explore these alternatives. Know that we—like you—want to have an in-person event so we can celebrate your accomplishments together, and we will find a way to make it happen. We will be in contact soon.

This is a generation-defining moment. We know that the Class of 2020 includes compassionate leaders and creative problem solvers. We need thinkers and experts across disciplines who can help us navigate our current and future challenges. We know that this is our Class of 2020. We shared your promise and potential with the world in a recent op-ed in The Baltimore Sun.

With our students as our inspiration, we cannot help but find reasons to be hopeful for the future. Thank you for your grit and greatness.

President Freeman Hrabowski and Provost Philip Rous ]]> Dear UMBC Community, Now more than ever, we are reminded of the many ways in which our community achieves excellence. Over the past few weeks, we have seen you demonstrate resilience,... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91977/guest@my.umbc.edu/d61a30af3398c5a7bf579174e564d074/api/pixel covid19 UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 2 0 true Wed, 08 Apr 2020 13:37:16 -0400 Online Instruction for Summer Session 2020 In recognition of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing social distancing practices, UMBC’s summer session will be offered entirely online in 2020. Consequently, undergraduate and graduate credit-bearing classes in 2020 summer sessions will be offered in the online format only.

While nearly 30% of the courses currently scheduled in the 2020 summer session are already online, every effort will now be made to convert all previously scheduled hybrid and in-person classes to online delivery. Detailed guidance for faculty and departments will be shared soon by the Office of Summer, Winter & Special Programs.

The Office of Summer, Winter & Special Programs will collaborate with academic departments to revise the summer session schedule of classes to reflect changes in course delivery formats. Please monitor schedule updates at summer.umbc.edu.

Students currently enrolled in the spring semester are eligible to register for Summer Session 2020. Visiting students from other institutions must first apply for admission to summer session.

Contact summer@umbc.edu for questions or more information.

Philip Rous, Provost
Christopher Steele, Vice Provost, Division of Professional Studies ]]> In recognition of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing social distancing practices, UMBC’s summer session will be offered entirely online in 2020. Consequently, undergraduate and graduate... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91918/guest@my.umbc.edu/6c77467f6b19cd61c0737a8761712454/api/pixel covid19 UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 3 0 true Tue, 07 Apr 2020 10:02:21 -0400 April 6: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update
Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order.

For the most updated information and more information on actions to reduce COVID-19 risks in our community, please visit covid19.umbc.edu.

Thank you to everyone that participated in our first-ever virtual Town Hall. If you missed it, a captioned recording is available at covid19.umbc.edu/town-hall.

Student Services and Support
  • The Stay Black and Gold Emergency Fund is a resource for UMBC students who face urgent and unexpected financial challenges and is available for students now. Learn more, apply, or donate here. The team has raised over $40,000 from over 55 alumni donors in less than a week.
  • View the Census Bureau’s updated guidance for college students at UMBC's Census 2020 Resources page.
  • University Health Services is providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2542 for more information. 
  • The Counseling Center is providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2472 for more information.
Academic Continuity
  • The Provost has issued Guidance on Remote Instruction setting forth recommended best practices for remote instruction and asking that faculty consider challenges and barriers to access that students may be facing with respect to remote instruction due to differences in time zones, limited access to a computer or the internet, familial duties, military duties, or disabilities.  
  • UMBC's 24th Annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD), originally scheduled to be held on campus on April 22, will instead take place online from April 22 – 29.
Business Continuity and Staff Support
  • For timesheet questions, the electronic timesheet workcenter now has an icon that links to the HR COVID-19 FAQs. 
  • Business Services is only able to process payments that are University mission critical or essential for research. More information here.
Facilities
  • Payroll deduction for faculty and staff parking will be suspended. We are working closely with the state and hope this will be effective beginning with the April 17 pay.
  • Only employees with a letter from their supervisor or students that are approved for late stay should be on campus. If you have an emergency need to visit campus, call UMBC Police Deputy Chief Bruce Perry at 443-677-2195 or Lieutenant Derrick Johns at 410-207-0850.
  • The Mailroom will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. --12 p.m. Courier service is currently unchanged.
#UMBCtogether
In the midst of challenging times, the UMBC community always finds ways to support each other. 

Please take a moment to celebrate the winners of the Presidential Faculty and Staff Awards. We recognize and appreciate all they have done, and continue to do, to support the University and our students. Please take a moment to reach out to these community members and congratulate them on their accomplishments. 

Check out how Retrievers are staying #UMBCtogether even though we’re physically apart:

https://twitter.com/keithjbowman/status/1247161411798786049
https://twitter.com/UMBC_MLax/status/1246919574467088386
https://twitter.com/umbcbookstore/status/1246875520131895303
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-o-2HKnRwV/

If you have questions or concerns, please email covid19@umbc.edu.

]]> Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order. For the most updated information and... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91910/guest@my.umbc.edu/988b1d7b523721af6ed9b8fd88a6e813/api/pixel covid19update UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 0 true Mon, 06 Apr 2020 18:59:45 -0400 Tue, 07 Apr 2020 17:53:36 -0400 Presidential Faculty and Staff Award Winners
Dear Colleagues, 

During these challenging times, we want you to know that we recognize and appreciate all you’ve done, and continue to do, to support the University and our students. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has required us to cancel one of our UMBC traditions, the yearly Presidential Faculty and Staff Awards (PFSA) ceremony. However, we want to take the time to recognize this year’s winners and celebrate their accomplishments. Please review the list below and take a moment to reach out these individuals and congratulate them on their accomplishments. 

You will find biographies of each recipient on the PFSA website, and we will be recognizing their work on social media in the coming weeks. Our colleagues in Institutional Advancement are also working to reschedule the event in the fall. 

We hope you and your families stay safe and healthy in the weeks ahead. We miss seeing you on campus but are deeply grateful for your continued hard work and community spirit.

President Freeman Hrabowski and Provost Philip Rous



Presidential Faculty & Staff Award Winners
Lee Blaney, Associate Professor, Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering
2020-2023 Presidential Teaching Professor

Phyllis R. Robinson, Professor, Biological Sciences
2020-2023 Presidential Research Professor

Amanda Knapp, Associate Vice Provost and Assistant Dean, Division of Undergraduate Academic Affairs
2020-2021 Presidential Distinguished Professional Staff Award

Melody Wright, Academic Business Services Specialist, Biological Sciences
2020-2021 Presidential Distinguished Non-Exempt Staff Award


University System of Maryland Board of Regents’ Faculty Award Winners
E. F. Charles LaBerge, Professor of the Practice, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering
2020 Excellence in Teaching

Weidong Zhu, Professor, Mechanical Engineering
2020 Excellence in Research, Scholarship, or Creative Activity

Steven Caruso, Senior Lecturer, Biological Sciences
2020 Excellence in Mentoring

Denise Meringolo, Associate Professor, History, and Director of Public History
2020 Excellence in Mentoring


University System of Maryland Board of Regents’ Staff Award Winners
Rachel Brubaker, Assistant Director, Grants & Program Development, Dresher Center for the Humanities 
2019 Exceptional Contribution to the Institution and/or Unit to Which the Person Belongs

Celso Guitian, Campus Planner, Facilities Management
2019 Effectiveness and Efficiency

Larry Hennessey, Associate Director, Facilities Management
2019 Extraordinary Public Service to the University or Greater Community

Jess Myers, Director, Women’s Center
2019 Inclusion, Multiculturalism, & Social Justice


2019-2020 Jakubik Family Endowment Staff Award Winner
Jessica R. Cook, Associate Director, Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program


2019-2020 Karen L. Wensch Endowment Award for Outstanding Non-Exempt Staff
Carolyn Good, Administrative Assistant II, Modern Languages, Linguistics, and Intercultural Communication


2019-2020 Marilyn E. Demorest Award for Faculty Advancement
Ana Maria Schwartz Caballero, Associate Professor, Spanish and Second Language Education; Affiliate Faculty, Language, Literacy, and Culture Program


2019-2020 UMBC Research Faculty Excellence Award
Ann Christine Frankowski, Senior Research Scientist, Sociology, Anthropology, and Health Administration and Policy


]]> Dear Colleagues,  During these challenging times, we want you to know that we recognize and appreciate all you’ve done, and continue to do, to support the University and our students.... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91896/guest@my.umbc.edu/a218070480543834f6d2f50720377c72/api/pixel UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 0 true Mon, 06 Apr 2020 16:23:55 -0400 April 3: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update

April 3: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update


Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order.


For the most updated information and more information on actions to reduce COVID-19 risks in our community, please visit COVID19.umbc.edu. 


Thank you to everyone that participated in our first-ever virtual Town Hall. We will be posting a recording with captions at covid19.umbc.edu/town-hall.


Student Services and Support


  • The Stay Black and Gold Emergency Fund is a resource for UMBC students who face urgent and unexpected financial challenges and is available for students now. Learn more, apply, or donate here.

  • The Counseling Center has created a unique series of free interactive workshops to help support students struggling with stress or anxiety.

  • Walker Avenue Apartments are owned by the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO), and managed by Capstone on Campus Management. MEDCO is issuing prorated refunds to its student residents. Housing charges for these buildings are not processed through UMBC, so refunds will not be processed by UMBC. For more information, contact Capstone on Campus Management.  

  • The Census Bureau has issued updated guidance that college students will be counted as they would have if COVID-19 had not occured. UMBC has developed a process by which we will provide the Census Bureau with information for students who were living on the UMBC campus prior to COVID-19, so they will be counted appropriately. Visit UMBC's Census 2020 Resources page for the most up-to-date information.

  • University Health Services is providing services remotely, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please visit their website or call 410-455-2542 for more information. 


Academic Continuity



Business Continuity and Staff Support


  • Business Services is only able to process payments that are University mission critical or essential for research. More information here.

  • Employees who have a live paycheck dated Friday, April 3, will have their check delivered to the address listed on their most recent tax forms.

 

Facilities


  • Payroll deduction for faculty and staff parking will discontinue, beginning with the next pay period (April 12).

  • Only employees with a letter from their supervisor or students that are approved for late stay should be on campus. If you have an emergency need to visit campus, call UMBC Police Deputy Chief Bruce Perry at 443-677-2195 or Lieutenant Derrick Johns at 410-207-0850.

  • The Mailroom will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. --12 p.m. Courier service is currently unchanged.


#UMBCtogether


In the midst of challenging times, the UMBC community always finds ways to support each other. Check out how Retrievers are staying #UMBCtogether even though we’re physically apart:

If you have questions or concerns, please email COVID19@umbc.edu. ]]> April 3: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update Campus Status: The University is open, with employees working remotely. Facilities will remain closed. Maryland is currently under a Stay at Home Order.... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/91831/guest@my.umbc.edu/59161aa4884f4d2ecaa0ea6757ef305f/api/pixel covid19update UMBC Community News https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/insights https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/original.png?1593096708 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xlarge.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/large.png?1593096708 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/medium.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/small.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xsmall.png?1593096708 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/090/56c39666a7bf2e5028d5419fc903e52d/xxsmall.png?1593096708 UMBC Community News 0 2 true Fri, 03 Apr 2020 19:27:51 -0400 Tue, 07 Apr 2020 17:53:55 -0400