In spring 2022, Mary Ellen Wade, director of student affairs assessment, research, and strategic priorities co-authored “Defining Collaboration Through the Lens of a Delphi Study: Student Affairs and Academic Affairs Partnerships in Residential Learning Communities” with Margaret Leary, Ph.D., University of San Diego; Tina M. Muller and Samantha Kramer, Ph.D., University of Central Oklahoma; John Sopper, University of North Carolina Greensboro; and Richard D. Gebauer, Ed.D., Cabrini University.

The abstract for the paper, published in The Qualitative Report (n3 p. 664-690 March 2022), states, “Evidence suggests that collaborations between academic affairs and student affairs can foster student success both inside and outside of the classroom. Residential learning communities (RLCs) are a popular avenue by which these two divisions can find collaborative opportunities to integrate students’ curricular and cocurricular experiences…We engaged RLC scholars and practitioners in a Delphi study to create a comprehensive definition for use in RLC program assessment and development resulting in the following definition: Collaboration between academic and student affairs is the continuous process of cultivating an interdependent relationship where each stakeholder is mutually committed to working toward the shared purpose of holistic student learning. This definition serves as a springboard for academic affairs and student affairs RLC collaborators to strive for continuous processes, interdependent relationships, and commitment to a shared purpose.”

The ConnectionCorps is a Center for Democracy and Civic Life initiative through which UMBC students learn to foster democratic participation and authentic connection among participants in the Center for Democracy and Civic Life's workshops and programs (e.g., Change Makers Dinner, Changing Maryland, and Dinner with Friends). ConnectionCorps facilitators participate in bi-weekly and ad-hoc training sessions to build community, develop skills, and prepare to facilitate.  

The overall time commitment is approximately 30 hours in each of the fall 2022 and spring 2023 semesters. For specific dates, see the application.

ConnectionCorps facilitators receive a $400 stipend and a zero credit practicum notification (PRAC 096-08) on their transcripts for spring 2022. They also receive a graduation cord to recognize the contributions they have made to the education and growth of their peers. The Shriver Center coordinates PRAC 096-08 and the distribution of graduation cords.

All undergraduate students are invited to apply. Preferred but not required: Applicants will have participated in Center for Democracy and Civic Life workshops or programs. 

The application is due by Monday, April 4, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. For more information, see thismyUMBC post.

Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is a six-day immersive learning experience organized by the Center for Democracy and Civic Life. ASB participants explore the systemic and human dimensions of complex social issues in Baltimore. Each small group focuses on a specific topic, but the groups also consider overlaps among their issues. ASB groups work with community partners, elected officials, and scholars to identify pathways to long-term local engagement.

Past ASB groups have explored challenges and solutions relating to housing, access to nutritious food, education, and health care, criminal justice, and a variety of other issues in Baltimore. Applicants can choose to explore these topics or propose new ones.

Each leader works with a co-leader and as a member of a leadership team organized and trained by Center for Democracy and Civic Life staff during weekly meetings in the fall 2022 and spring 2023 semesters. Together the leaders develop plans for a holistic, empowering ASB experience for all participants during the week of UMBC's Spring Break, March 19 - 24, 2023. 

The overall time commitment is approximately 100 hours over the course of the fall 2022 and spring 2023 semesters. For specific dates, see the application. 

Leaders receive a $1,000 stipend and a zero credit practicum notification (PRAC 096-08) on their transcripts for winter and spring 2023. Leaders also receive a graduation cord to recognize the contributions they have made to the education and growth of their peers. The Shriver Center coordinates PRAC 096-08 and the distribution of graduation cords.

All undergraduate students are invited to apply. Preferred but not required: Applicants will have participated in ASB or a similar multi-day experiential learning program. 

This application is due by Monday, April 4, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. 

 If you have any questions about the application or the process, please email civiclife@umbc.edu. Thanks for applying!

STRiVE is an intensive, five-day leadership for social impact program organized by the Center for Democracy and Civic Life in partnership with the Student Government Association. The STRiVE coaching team prepares for and facilitates STRiVE, which will take place January 9-13, 2023.

STRiVE coaches meet weekly during the fall 2022 semester to practice sessions and make plans. Coaches also prepare to facilitate small and large group sessions. By the time of the retreat, all coaches have received all the training and practice needed to succeed as a STRiVE coach.

The overall time commitment is approximately 100 hours over the course of fall 2022 semester and winter 2023 term. For specific dates, see the application.

STRiVE coaches receive a $1,000 stipend and a zero credit practicum notification (PRAC 096-08) on their transcript for winter 2023. They also receive a graduation cord to recognize the contributions they have made to the education and growth of their peers. The Shriver Center coordinates PRAC 096-08 and the distribution of graduation cords.

All undergraduate students are invited to apply. Preferred but not required: Applicants will have participated in STRiVE or a similar multi-day experiential learning program.  

Use this form to apply to be a STRiVE coach for the 2022-23 academic year. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, April 4, 2022.