An Update on Our Response to Federal Actions and Orders
Dear Faculty and Staff,
This week, the world marked the five-year anniversary of the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic. As we reflect on that global crisis—remembering all the lives lost, honoring the heroes who were on the front lines of care, and considering lessons learned and implications for our future—it is worth recalling the uncertainty and anxiety of the early days of that crisis. 
Today, in higher education, the uncertainty brought on by recent and ongoing changes at the federal level is creating anxiety that feels in some ways similar to what we felt five years ago, with questions about what the specific impacts will be—and how widespread and long-lasting—and how we will continue to care for our communities and advance our public-serving educational and research missions. It is worth remembering what we did in those early days of the pandemic, as well: We came together; we adapted; and we made decisions that were grounded in our values and based on the best information we had. 
To be clear, higher education is not confronting a pandemic today. But we are, as a sector, facing tremendous challenges, including recent and potential changes in federal funding policies and practices that could devastate our country’s research capacity and cuts in education spending and other areas that could significantly affect educational institutions and the states and communities in which they are located.
I want to acknowledge the concerns. I know they may be heightened as you read of austerity measures being announced at other institutions, including some in Maryland, whose research funding has already been cut significantly and/or whose institutional budgets rely heavily on federal funding. No institution, not even the wealthiest, could replace federal research dollars out of their own budgets or with state funds or philanthropy. A loss of federal research funding on the scale that has been proposed would fundamentally change our nation’s academic research enterprise, and it would, inevitably, change the role of research in higher education and the teaching and learning that occurs on our campuses. 
We simply do not know yet what the scale of impact will be, whether on research or any other aspect of our work. Nor do we know how federal changes will affect our state and its budget—though we know that more than one-third of the state’s budget comes from federal sources and that we were already anticipating (and prepared for) a reduction in state funding this year. What we know is that there will be impacts, and they are likely to be significant. 
As the state funding picture becomes clearer, and as court rulings, congressional actions, and other efforts hopefully provide more clarity on federal funding, we will keep you informed and communicate with you about any steps the university may need to take to adapt to changing circumstances. Our core team continues to meet frequently to assess real and potential impacts of federal orders and actions. Please visit our related website for up-to-date information and communications concerning these issues. 
I am grateful for the many opportunities I have had over the last few weeks to meet with you and hear your concerns and questions on a variety of issues related to federal orders and actions, including in recent meetings with academic chairs, directors from across the university, and shared governance, whose leadership I greatly appreciate. In all of these conversations, the concerns I hear speak to our shared values and our shared vision for UMBC. 
As we head toward spring break, I hope you all will find some time to rest and renew. I hope, as well, that we reflect on the importance of UMBC and its mission and that you know how much we value your dedication to this community and its work. 
Sincerely, 
President Valerie Sheares Ashby 
]]> Dear Faculty and Staff, This week, the world marked the five-year anniversary of the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic. As we reflect on that global crisis—remembering all the lives lost,... https://umbc.edu/stories/an-update-on-our-response-to-federal-actions-and-orders/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148131/guest@my.umbc.edu/8f64b6281b31f6b9baa93ff9e085b80a/api/pixel federal-orders story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 0 0 false Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:24:17 -0400 An Update on Our Response to Federal Actions and Orders
Dear Faculty and Staff,
This week, the world marked the five-year anniversary of the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic. As we reflect on that global crisis—remembering all the lives lost, honoring the heroes who were on the front lines of care, and considering lessons learned and implications for our future—it is worth recalling the uncertainty and anxiety of the early days of that crisis. 
Today, in higher education, the uncertainty brought on by recent and ongoing changes at the federal level is creating anxiety that feels in some ways similar to what we felt five years ago, with questions about what the specific impacts will be—and how widespread and long-lasting—and how we will continue to care for our communities and advance our public-serving educational and research missions. It is worth remembering what we did in those early days of the pandemic, as well: We came together; we adapted; and we made decisions that were grounded in our values and based on the best information we had. 
To be clear, higher education is not confronting a pandemic today. But we are, as a sector, facing tremendous challenges, including recent and potential changes in federal funding policies and practices that could devastate our country’s research capacity and cuts in education spending and other areas that could significantly affect educational institutions and the states and communities in which they are located.
I want to acknowledge the concerns. I know they may be heightened as you read of austerity measures being announced at other institutions, including some in Maryland, whose research funding has already been cut significantly and/or whose institutional budgets rely heavily on federal funding. No institution, not even the wealthiest, could replace federal research dollars out of their own budgets or with state funds or philanthropy. A loss of federal research funding on the scale that has been proposed would fundamentally change our nation’s academic research enterprise, and it would, inevitably, change the role of research in higher education and the teaching and learning that occurs on our campuses. 
We simply do not know yet what the scale of impact will be, whether on research or any other aspect of our work. Nor do we know how federal changes will affect our state and its budget—though we know that more than one-third of the state’s budget comes from federal sources and that we were already anticipating (and prepared for) a reduction in state funding this year. What we know is that there will be impacts, and they are likely to be significant. 
As the state funding picture becomes clearer, and as court rulings, congressional actions, and other efforts hopefully provide more clarity on federal funding, we will keep you informed and communicate with you about any steps the university may need to take to adapt to changing circumstances. Our core team continues to meet frequently to assess real and potential impacts of federal orders and actions. Please visit our related website for up-to-date information and communications concerning these issues. 
I am grateful for the many opportunities I have had over the last few weeks to meet with you and hear your concerns and questions on a variety of issues related to federal orders and actions, including in recent meetings with academic chairs, directors from across the university, and shared governance, whose leadership I greatly appreciate. In all of these conversations, the concerns I hear speak to our shared values and our shared vision for UMBC. 
As we head toward spring break, I hope you all will find some time to rest and renew. I hope, as well, that we reflect on the importance of UMBC and its mission and that you know how much we value your dedication to this community and its work. 
Sincerely, 
President Valerie Sheares Ashby 
]]> Dear Faculty and Staff, This week, the world marked the five-year anniversary of the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic. As we reflect on that global crisis—remembering all the lives lost,... https://umbc.edu/stories/148088/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148178/guest@my.umbc.edu/4e4343130d8c7fcc657813b3ad0a1562/api/pixel federal-orders president president-valerie-sheares-ashby rss story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 0 0 false Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:24:17 -0400 Today’s shooting at the Baltimore County Police Station

Dear UMBC Community, 

As you know, this afternoon, a Baltimore County Police officer was injured in a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Baltimore County Police station on Wilkens Avenue. This was a shocking incident of violence, especially because of its proximity to our campus. I want to assure our UMBC community that there is no imminent or ongoing danger to our community, and the shooting has been determined to have been an isolated incident. The suspect was taken into custody immediately following the incident, and the Baltimore County officer is in the hospital in stable condition. The Maryland Attorney General’s Office Independent Investigations Division and the Baltimore County Police Department are investigating. 

I want to commend our UMBC Police Department for its exemplary work throughout today’s incident. Our officers were among the first to arrive on the scene, and I am grateful for their swift and professional actions, and for their leadership in keeping us informed and staying closely connected to Baltimore County Police. Our thoughts and support go out to the injured officer and his family and to the Baltimore County Police Department in this difficult time. 

I want to remind you that resources are available for faculty, staff, and students who may need support. Please do not hesitate to seek out resources for support should you need them. 

For students:

Retriever Integrated Health

Retriever Care 

For employees and their households:

Employee Assistance Program 

Immediate assistance and 24/7 support resources are also available

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby


]]> Dear UMBC Community,  As you know, this afternoon, a Baltimore County Police officer was injured in a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Baltimore County Police station on Wilkens... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements/posts/148104 https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148109/guest@my.umbc.edu/e6d2e10bad75ec7b5b1e444e1a96322e/api/pixel president president-valerie-sheares-ashby rss story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 0 0 false Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:16:22 -0400 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:16:22 -0400 Today’s shooting at the Baltimore County Police Station

Dear UMBC Community, 

As you know, this afternoon, a Baltimore County Police officer was injured in a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Baltimore County Police station on Wilkens Avenue. This was a shocking incident of violence, especially because of its proximity to our campus. I want to assure our UMBC community that there is no imminent or ongoing danger to our community, and the shooting has been determined to have been an isolated incident. The suspect was taken into custody immediately following the incident, and the Baltimore County officer is in the hospital in stable condition. The Maryland Attorney General’s Office Independent Investigations Division and the Baltimore County Police Department are investigating. 

I want to commend our UMBC Police Department for its exemplary work throughout today’s incident. Our officers were among the first to arrive on the scene, and I am grateful for their swift and professional actions, and for their leadership in keeping us informed and staying closely connected to Baltimore County Police. Our thoughts and support go out to the injured officer and his family and to the Baltimore County Police Department in this difficult time. 

I want to remind you that resources are available for faculty, staff, and students who may need support. Please do not hesitate to seek out resources for support should you need them. 

For students:

Retriever Integrated Health

Retriever Care 

For employees and their households:

Employee Assistance Program 

Immediate assistance and 24/7 support resources are also available

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby


]]> Dear UMBC Community,  As you know, this afternoon, a Baltimore County Police officer was injured in a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Baltimore County Police station on Wilkens... https://umbc.edu/stories/todays-shooting-at-the-baltimore-county-police-station/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148132/guest@my.umbc.edu/d05cd673f1951aa639fce28ba7cb50c1/api/pixel president president-valerie-sheares-ashby rss story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 0 0 false Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:16:22 -0400 Today’s shooting at the Baltimore County Police Station

Dear UMBC Community, 

As you know, this afternoon, a Baltimore County Police officer was injured in a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Baltimore County Police station on Wilkens Avenue. This was a shocking incident of violence, especially because of its proximity to our campus. I want to assure our UMBC community that there is no imminent or ongoing danger to our community, and the shooting has been determined to have been an isolated incident. The suspect was taken into custody immediately following the incident, and the Baltimore County officer is in the hospital in stable condition. The Maryland Attorney General’s Office Independent Investigations Division and the Baltimore County Police Department are investigating. 

I want to commend our UMBC Police Department for its exemplary work throughout today’s incident. Our officers were among the first to arrive on the scene, and I am grateful for their swift and professional actions, and for their leadership in keeping us informed and staying closely connected to Baltimore County Police. Our thoughts and support go out to the injured officer and his family and to the Baltimore County Police Department in this difficult time. 

I want to remind you that resources are available for faculty, staff, and students who may need support. Please do not hesitate to seek out resources for support should you need them. 

For students:

Retriever Integrated Health

Retriever Care 

For employees and their households:

Employee Assistance Program 

Immediate assistance and 24/7 support resources are also available

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby


]]> Dear UMBC Community,  As you know, this afternoon, a Baltimore County Police officer was injured in a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Baltimore County Police station on Wilkens... https://umbc.edu/stories/148104/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148179/guest@my.umbc.edu/8ca1d9172d22f2cf60836169e9045bf3/api/pixel president president-valerie-sheares-ashby rss story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 0 0 false Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:16:22 -0400 New endowed chair honors math professor Thomas Seidman, who helped shape the department

Thomas Seidman, late emeritus professor of mathematics and statistics, gave 45 years of his life to teaching, mentoring, and conducting research at UMBC before retiring in 2017. After his death in August 2024, his estate donated $1.06 million to UMBC to create the Dr. Thomas I. Seidman Endowed Chair in mathematics. The Maryland E-nnovation Initiative, an effort within the Maryland Department of Commerce, matched the bequest, bringing the total endowment to more than $2 million.

portrait of man with white hair and beard and red suspendersThomas Seidman (Courtesy Seidman family)

“The Seidman family’s generous gift, along with the MEI match, will make it possible for UMBC to hire world-class applied mathematics faculty with expertise in research fields that will drive the economy of the future,” said William R. LaCourse, dean of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences. “CNMS is deeply grateful for Dr. Seidman’s service to UMBC throughout his decades as a faculty member. With this gift, his impact will extend even further by helping UMBC students prepare for rewarding careers in booming fields like data science and AI.”

Joining UMBC only a few years after the university’s founding in 1966, Seidman created a home for himself in the mathematics and statistics department. In addition to his prolific and widely-cited scholarship in applied analysis and fierce dedication to teaching, Seidman also contributed to the young department’s development through writing bylaws for department chair election processes, chairing the promotion and tenure committee for many years, and serving as acting department chair in 1992. He never missed a department seminar and was known for asking insightful questions. 

“He was able to build a niche and a role for himself that fit him perfectly,” Seidman’s son, Gregory Seidman, says. “The continuity and stability of the environment, combined with the roots our family had put down in the area, made him feel at home in a way he couldn’t imagine rebuilding elsewhere.”

Leaving a legacy

Seidman “cared deeply about teaching,” his son says, and took pride in instructing students in both foundational math courses like Linear Algebra and courses for non-majors, such as a course on the history of mathematics. Seidman’s one regret was that he did not advise more graduate students, his son shares. 

Gregory believes his father hoped to leave a legacy by supporting further work in his mathematical research fields and creating opportunities for students. “It is my hope that his bequest will support many doctoral students following in his research footsteps,” Gregory says, “who would otherwise have been that legacy.”

The younger Seidman remembers spending much of his childhood in his father’s office and in a UMBC computer lab. Father and son learned to program an original Apple PC together in the early 1980s, which inspired Gregory to pursue computer science. Eventually, he even co-authored a research paper with his father. Gregory also recalls regular meetings of the minds with department members in the Seidman household when he was young.

man in armchair writing in notebook, bookshelf behind himThomas Seidman was known for his commitment to teaching, and his bequest will create more opportunities for UMBC students to study with outstanding mathematicians. (Courtesy Seidman family)

“While I know my father made a difference at UMBC in various ways, some more significant than others, it feels good to have his name on something that will be seen for years to come,” Gregory says. “I’m also especially pleased that, some day, my kids will be able to show their kids that their great-grandfather, whom they will never meet, made a difference here.”

Seidman notes that his father’s life was a fulfilling one, rich in warm personal relationships and professional success. “His was a life well lived,” he says. And now, the Dr. Thomas I. Seidman Endowed Chair will help create opportunities for more aspiring mathematicians to build their own lives and legacies.

]]> Thomas Seidman, late emeritus professor of mathematics and statistics, gave 45 years of his life to teaching, mentoring, and conducting research at UMBC before retiring in 2017. After his death in... https://umbc.edu/stories/thomas-seidman-mei-chair/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148072/guest@my.umbc.edu/762f5171b4cffa14db4778c384396ef0/api/pixel cnms mathstat news science-and-tech story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 2 0 false Thu, 13 Mar 2025 10:27:59 -0400 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 10:27:59 -0400 Message for International Employees international travel during Spring Break
MESSAGE FOR INTERNATIONAL EMPLOYEES

UMBC’s Center for Global Engagement wishes to remind all international employees and visiting scholars planning international travel during Spring Break to review their travel documents ahead of their departure.


J-1 Exchange Visitors

Individuals holding J-1 Exchange Visitor status (including J-1 Professors, Research Scholars, and Short-Term Scholars) must check the validity of the travel validation (signature) on the front of their Form DS-2019. Travel validations remain valid for one year for most J-1 categories, but are only valid for six months for Short-Term Scholars. Additionally, travelers must ensure that their J-1 visa remains valid through the date that they plan to return to the U.S. and passports should be valid for at least six months after the date of reentry.


H-1B Employees

Employees holding H-1B status must confirm that their H-1B visa will be valid on the date of their planned reentry into the U.S. If employees obtained H-1B status by changing from another nonimmigrant status from within the U.S., then it is important to remember that an H-1B visa is required for reentry to the U.S. after international travel. Additionally, travelers must ensure that their passports are valid for at least six months after the date of reentry.


In-person Interviews for Visa Applicants

As we have shared on our Immigration Policy Updates page, the U.S. Department of State recently made changes to its in-person interview policy. The Department's new policy makes the requirement for an in-person interview a discretionary decision by consular officers; travelers should not assume that their in-person interview will be waived.The in-person interview may add to the time to process a visa renewal. Additionally, visa appointment wait times can fluctuate drastically without warning.


For these reasons, anyone whose visa has expired should carefully consider these factors in planning any potential international travel. Before departing the U.S., travelers without valid visas should work with the U.S. embassy or consulate in their travel destination to determine if they are required to appear for an in-person interview. If an in-person interview is required, travelers should secure an appointment before departing the U.S. We strongly recommend that travelers seek an appointment during the early part of their trip, since there can be unexpected delays in the visa renewal process. Anyone who departs the U.S. with an expired visa will not be able to return until they are issued a new visa.


Future Communications

International employees and scholars should monitor their UMBC email account closely for important messages from the Center for Global Engagement as this is how we will send alerts of any changes in U.S. immigration policy.


Anyone who has questions about their individual travel plans should contact me prior to travel. We wish a safe journey to those choosing to travel during Spring Break, and we hope that all members of our community enjoy the break and come back refreshed and ready to finish out the semester. 


Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb

International Scholar Coordinator, ISSS


 ]]> MESSAGE FOR INTERNATIONAL EMPLOYEES UMBC’s Center for Global Engagement wishes to remind all international employees and visiting scholars planning international travel during Spring Break to... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/147880/guest@my.umbc.edu/eb122bf113bdb922a66766362d43d795/api/pixel Exchange Visitors https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/j-1 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/xsmall.png?1525966942 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/original.jpg?1525966942 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/xxlarge.png?1525966942 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/xlarge.png?1525966942 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/large.png?1525966942 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/medium.png?1525966942 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/small.png?1525966942 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/xsmall.png?1525966942 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/488/175f9f6b6c231ae5de90058948f6228c/xxsmall.png?1525966942 Exchange Visitors https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/xxlarge.jpg?1741204115 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/xlarge.jpg?1741204115 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/large.jpg?1741204115 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/medium.jpg?1741204115 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/small.jpg?1741204115 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/xsmall.jpg?1741204115 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/147/880/ae1c739528ff1b492fbd6a477f275f52/xxsmall.jpg?1741204115 0 0 true Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:49:05 -0500 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:49:50 -0500 A Message of Support for Graduate Students

Dear Graduate Students, 

As interim vice provost and dean of the graduate school, I want to acknowledge the anxiety, uncertainty, and perhaps confusion that many of you may be feeling in light of numerous federal executive orders and actions related to higher education. I am particularly aware of concern  throughout the sector about both short- and long-term impacts on higher education’s ability to pursue its educational and research missions. 

Today, I write to acknowledge your concerns and express my support, and also to highlight some information and resources available to you. You likely have seen numerous messages to the community related to the changes coming out of Washington, but it’s worth referencing a few that are especially relevant to our graduate student community. 

Most recently, Karl V. Steiner, our vice president for research and creative achievement, sent a campus message regarding UMBC’s response to a stop-work order received from a federal agency. That message includes helpful information, as well as links to further resources, about how the university is responding to such orders. Importantly, in this case, the university’s position is that the research in question should continue at UMBC. 

Tanyka M. Barber, UMBC’s vice president for institutional equity and chief diversity officer, communicated to campus recently as well, responding to the most recent of many efforts by the federal government to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts—the latest being a “Dear Colleague Letter” from the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Vice President Barber’s message was clear that the Dear Colleague Letter does not carry the force of law and that UMBC continues to abide by existing law. The Department of Education has since shared additional guidance.

I would also point you to the message earlier in February from David Di Maria, senior international officer and associate vice provost for international education, which provided resources for international students and shared a link to a new website that the Center for Global Engagement has created to provide the latest updates on immigration policies, including those related to visa renewals. 

The pace of news is so rapid that it can be overwhelming just to stay informed. I hope you will bookmark and visit often the university’s central hub for updates and information regarding federal orders and actions. All related campus messaging, as well as a helpful collection of internal and external resources, can be found there. 

Should you have specific questions or concerns related to your work or experience as a graduate student at UMBC, please be in touch with your principal investigators and department chairs, and please continue to avail yourself of the support of the Graduate Student Association (GSA) and of my office. The core team that is meeting frequently to consider the many issues and potential impacts of the activity in Washington is consulting with us and keeping us informed of its work. 

To all of our graduate students:  We are honored to have you as part of our community. You belong here; you are woven into the fabric of our research, creative activities, the pursuit of knowledge, and the academic life of this community. You and your contributions to our mission are deeply valued, and we will continue to do all in our power to support you and your work. 

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Halverson
Interim Vice Provost and Dean, The Graduate School
Professor, Geography and Environmental Science

]]> Dear Graduate Students,  As interim vice provost and dean of the graduate school, I want to acknowledge the anxiety, uncertainty, and perhaps confusion that many of you may be feeling in light... https://umbc.edu/stories/a-message-of-support-for-graduate-students/ https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/148133/guest@my.umbc.edu/a60bde73f24e821187a558874653a5ca/api/pixel federal-orders story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 1 0 false Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:37:20 -0500 A Message of Support for Graduate Students

Dear Graduate Students, 

As interim vice provost and dean of the graduate school, I want to acknowledge the anxiety, uncertainty, and perhaps confusion that many of you may be feeling in light of numerous federal executive orders and actions related to higher education. I am particularly aware of concern  throughout the sector about both short- and long-term impacts on higher education’s ability to pursue its educational and research missions. 

Today, I write to acknowledge your concerns and express my support, and also to highlight some information and resources available to you. You likely have seen numerous messages to the community related to the changes coming out of Washington, but it’s worth referencing a few that are especially relevant to our graduate student community. 

Most recently, Karl V. Steiner, our vice president for research and creative achievement, sent a campus message regarding UMBC’s response to a stop-work order received from a federal agency. That message includes helpful information, as well as links to further resources, about how the university is responding to such orders. Importantly, in this case, the university’s position is that the research in question should continue at UMBC. 

Tanyka M. Barber, UMBC’s vice president for institutional equity and chief diversity officer, communicated to campus recently as well, responding to the most recent of many efforts by the federal government to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts—the latest being a “Dear Colleague Letter” from the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Vice President Barber’s message was clear that the Dear Colleague Letter does not carry the force of law and that UMBC continues to abide by existing law. The Department of Education has since shared additional guidance.

I would also point you to the message earlier in February from David Di Maria, senior international officer and associate vice provost for international education, which provided resources for international students and shared a link to a new website that the Center for Global Engagement has created to provide the latest updates on immigration policies, including those related to visa renewals. 

The pace of news is so rapid that it can be overwhelming just to stay informed. I hope you will bookmark and visit often the university’s central hub for updates and information regarding federal orders and actions. All related campus messaging, as well as a helpful collection of internal and external resources, can be found there. 

Should you have specific questions or concerns related to your work or experience as a graduate student at UMBC, please be in touch with your principal investigators and department chairs, and please continue to avail yourself of the support of the Graduate Student Association (GSA) and of my office. The core team that is meeting frequently to consider the many issues and potential impacts of the activity in Washington is consulting with us and keeping us informed of its work. 

To all of our graduate students:  We are honored to have you as part of our community. You belong here; you are woven into the fabric of our research, creative activities, the pursuit of knowledge, and the academic life of this community. You and your contributions to our mission are deeply valued, and we will continue to do all in our power to support you and your work. 

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Halverson
Interim Vice Provost and Dean, The Graduate School
Professor, Geography and Environmental Science

]]> Dear Graduate Students,  As interim vice provost and dean of the graduate school, I want to acknowledge the anxiety, uncertainty, and perhaps confusion that many of you may be feeling in light... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/announcements-graduates/posts/147877 https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/147882/guest@my.umbc.edu/98f6c717a8825baa4395869ee78eaa51/api/pixel federal-orders rss story UMBC News & Magazine https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/umbc-news-magazine https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/original.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xlarge.png?1748556657 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/large.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/medium.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/small.png?1748556657 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xsmall.png?1748556657 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/943/24435aa6207c452e7bc15cc74b42c7bb/xxsmall.png?1748556657 UMBC News & Magazine 5 0 false Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:37:20 -0500 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:37:20 -0500 Statement on International Travel During Spring Break A Message for J-1 Scholars/Researchers and H-1B Employees

UMBC’s Center for Global Engagement wishes to remind all international employees and visiting scholars planning international travel during Spring Break to review their travel documents ahead of their departure.

J-1 Exchange Visitors

Individuals holding J-1 Exchange Visitor status (including J-1 Professors, Research Scholars, and Short-Term Scholars) must check the validity of the travel validation (signature) on the front of their Form DS-2019. Travel validations remain valid for one year for most J-1 categories, but are only valid for six months for Short-Term Scholars. Additionally, travelers must ensure that their J-1 visa remains valid through the date that they plan to return to the U.S. and passports should be valid for at least six months after the date of reentry.

H-1B Employees

Employees holding H-1B status must confirm that their H-1B visa will be valid on the date of their planned reentry into the U.S. If employees obtained H-1B status by changing from another nonimmigrant status from within the U.S., then it is important to remember that an H-1B visa is required for reentry to the U.S. after international travel. Additionally, travelers must ensure that their passports are valid for at least six months after the date of reentry.

In-person Interviews for Visa Applicants

As we have shared on our Immigration Policy Updates page, the U.S. Department of State recently made changes to its in-person interview policy. The Department's new policy makes the requirement for an in-person interview a discretionary decision by consular officers; travelers should not assume that their in-person interview will be waived.The in-person interview may add to the time to process a visa renewal. Additionally, visa appointment wait times can fluctuate drastically without warning.

For these reasons, anyone whose visa has expired should carefully consider these factors in planning any potential international travel. Before departing the U.S., travelers without valid visas should work with the U.S. embassy or consulate in their travel destination to determine if they are required to appear for an in-person interview. If an in-person interview is required, travelers should secure an appointment before departing the U.S. We strongly recommend that travelers seek an appointment during the early part of their trip, since there can be unexpected delays in the visa renewal process. Anyone who departs the U.S. with an expired visa will not be able to return until they are issued a new visa.

Future Communications

International employees and scholars should monitor their UMBC email account closely for important messages from the Center for Global Engagement as this is how we will send alerts of any changes in U.S. immigration policy.

Anyone who has questions about their individual travel plans should contact me prior to travel. We wish a safe journey to those choosing to travel during Spring Break, and we hope that all members of our community enjoy the break and come back refreshed and ready to finish out the semester. 

Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb
International Scholar Coordinator
Center for Global Engagement


]]> UMBC’s Center for Global Engagement wishes to remind all international employees and visiting scholars planning international travel during Spring Break to review their travel documents ahead of... https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/147871/guest@my.umbc.edu/ae6ed42cb86653ef1fafa597ca4a3f4c/api/pixel federal-orders International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/ies https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/xsmall.png?1693323874 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/original.jpeg?1693323874 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/xxlarge.png?1693323874 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/xlarge.png?1693323874 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/large.png?1693323874 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/medium.png?1693323874 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/small.png?1693323874 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/xsmall.png?1693323874 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/431/46ad84ea8ba0baeed7c3faf29d1fd4ef/xxsmall.png?1693323874 International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) 5 0 false Wed, 05 Mar 2025 13:06:19 -0500