Dear UMBC Community,

It was a delight to be joined recently by many students, faculty, and staff at the Annapolis reception that UMBC and our alumni legislators (of which there are many!) co-host each year. The event celebrates the new General Assembly session and our work together in support of UMBC and the State of Maryland.

This year’s reception was particularly special, as we honored Speaker Emerita Adrienne A. Jones ’76 and her historic tenure as leader of the House of Delegates. Amid keynote remarks from Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk and visits with numerous delegates, senators, cabinet members, and other public officials (including former UMBC vice president, now Secretary of Budget and Management Yaakov “Jake” Weissmann ’06), I heard again and again a deep appreciation for UMBC and its valuable mission in service of Maryland.

I hear that same appreciation and support in the many one-on-one meetings I have in Annapolis—meetings that will number more than 50 during this session and are an important part of our advocacy and engagement with lawmakers and officials every year. In this time of intense challenges—ongoing federal pressures, a state budget deficit, and more—these dedicated public servants tell me they are inspired and energized by seeing firsthand the good that UMBC and Maryland’s other universities are doing for our state. In all these meetings and gatherings, throughout many busy days in Annapolis, it is meaningful and joyful to be able to share the stories of the transformative power of UMBC.

Sincerely,