Meet Dann Malihom ’10, M.A. ’16. Dann has spent most of his adult life at UMBC. He is a double alum (with plans to be a triple alum one day), earning both his degrees in sociology. He is a UMBC staff member, serving as the event specialist in the Office of Institutional Advancement. He is an adjunct faculty member in the sociology, anthropology, and public health department. And Dann also serves as the vice president of engagement on the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors. Talk about a lifelong Retriever! Take it away, Dann!

Q: What is your WHY? What brought you to UMBC?

A: UMBC was appealing to me because of its authenticity. It felt different from “traditional” colleges, not because it was trying and failing or trying to be intentionally counter-culture. It just was. I immediately felt welcomed and embraced for who I was, academically and personally. In an age when everything feels marketed or insincere, UMBC tells you up front that we are not just aiming for excellence, but inclusive excellence.

Q: Who is someone in the UMBC community who has inspired you or supported you?

A: Christine Mair of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Health. She was my mentor during my thesis for my master’s in applied sociology. She was the reason I was able to get a position as an adjunct with UMBC in 2017, and was a fantastic support as I learned the ropes of being a professor. She showed immediate faith in me and has always been a valuable resource for me to turn to whenever I need a suggestion, direction, or even just confirmation that I was making the right choices with my teaching pedagogy.

Q: What do you love about sociology?

A: I love teaching in the sociology, anthropology, and public health department. By definition, all of us are connected to sociology due to the fact that we live, learn, and interact with society. The little “ah ha!” moments when students begin to make connections to things that have influenced them never get old. While the course material can sometimes get heavy as we talk about topics like racism, gender inequality, and social stratification, the students always show deep reflection and recognition of these social issues. Even more promising, they take these recognitions of the problems as their first steps toward correcting them.

Q: Tell us about your current job. What do you like most about it?

A: I have worked at UMBC full-time since 2012. I started out as a facilities coordinator in Campus Life Operations before transitioning into my current role as the event specialist in the Office of Institutional Advancement in 2024. I enjoy getting to support milestone events that bring the students, faculty, staff, and UMBC community together in a shared place of belonging. Commencement is a whirlwind of an event that means so much to so many people, such as first-generation students, international students, and non-traditional students. Being able to be a part of that as these individuals walk across stage is so rewarding.

Q: What would you tell someone who is considering a career at UMBC? 

A: UMBC is a special place. This is reflected in the number of alumni who are now staff members. It may not be for everyone, but for many, it is truly a place they love and are welcomed fully.

Q: Where have you found support in the UMBC community?

A: The shared governance aspect of UMBC is a wonderful thing. UMBC truly strives to include all voices and perspectives in decisions, and it shows. Whether it’s through groups like the Exempt Staff Senate or just the accessibility of administration, it is easy to share your opinion and, perhaps more importantly, feel like you’ve actually been heard.

Q: How have you stayed connected with the UMBC alumni community?

A: I have been a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors since 2019. I initially joined at the recommendation of the current president, Nate Dissmeyer ’07, and became a part of the Strategic Initiatives committee. Last year, I was able to become the chair of that committee, and starting this year, I am the vice president of engagement for the board. My positions have afforded me the opportunity to meet and connect with alumni not just from my cohort, but as far back as the Founding Four (alumni from UMBC’s first four graduating classes). 

Q: What drives you to support UMBC?

A: My teaching philosophy that I inherited from my high school philosophy teacher is “You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but you can’t count the number of apples in a seed.” Every year, I give to the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Health, the Women’s, Gender, & Equity Center, and the Alumni Endowment Scholarship Fund. Some of the recipients have been students I’ve taught directly. Regardless of whether I know them or not, I know UMBC is developing engaged, empathetic, global citizens, and many of them will go on to change the world. 

Pictured right: Malihom and his son Miles, who are both obsessed with space, got to check out the telescope at the UMBC Observatory as part of the Homecoming celebration.

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Families, friends, furry pals, and Retrievers of all ages returned to UMBC’s campus last week for the 2024 Homecoming celebration. Retrievers were in high spirits as they enjoyed more than 30 events, including UMBC Homecoming staples like the beloved carnival and bonfire, and some attendees kicked off their Halloween festivities with costumes, pumpkins, and fall treats. 

Robots, pups, and Retriever traditions

In UMBC tradition, the Homecoming celebration had something for everyone. Leading up to main Homecoming weekend, students kicked Homecoming fun into high gear with the return of the student org kickball tournament. UMBC faculty and staff also took part in the fun at the annual faculty-staff social. 

A diverse breadth of UMBC’s research and creative achievement was on display at the eighth annual GRIT-X event. First-year computer science student Morgan Robbins attended this year’s GRIT-X with her mother, Nicole Robbins. The pair were impressed by GRIT-X speaker Aryya Gangopadhyay, professor of information systems, and student researchers in UMBC’s Center for Real-time Distributed Sensing and Autonomy (CARDS) who led a demonstration of their autonomous robotics technology.

“I’m interested in autonomous communication, and I like combining computing with helping people,” said Robbins. “This was my first time seeing research talks, and it was great to see the research happening at UMBC.”

During Homecoming and Family Weekend, there were smiles, cheers, and barks all around for the annual Puppy Parade, which featured dozens of animals in wild costumes. Dharma Bhatt ’23, psychology, said he came to Homecoming for one reason: “The puppy parade—entirely the puppy parade.” 

A weekend for family and friends 

Homecoming weekend also featured several get-togethers for various groups across the community, including reunions for UMBC’s “Founding Four” group and members of the university’s Honors College and scholars programs. President Valerie Sheares Ashby took part in the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority Lambda Phi chapter’s celebration of their 15th reunion. The group helped to raise more than $1,600 for UMBC’s Second Generation Scholarship Fund.

Jim Lotfi ’89, visual and performing arts, kept the party rocking during the annual Greek alumni reunion party. Lotfi shared that he loves hosting the Greek alumni party, saying that, “It’s a great time for fraternity and sorority members across all organizations to come together and reconnect. This is one of my favorite Homecoming events to participate in.” 

In the Alumni and Friends tent on Erickson Field, attendees enjoyed games, food, petting zoo fun, and moments of reconnecting with old classmates and other familiar faces. Senior Emily Trentalance said she attended Homecoming to be able to see friends and professors again. “It’s hard hanging out, especially with your alumni friends when people are busy, so it’s nice to see everyone,” she shares. 

During this year’s Taste of Maryland Homecoming event, 100 attendees gathered across from UMBC’s Bookstore in The Commons for a crab and assorted buffet feast. Alumni Association President Kevin Yang ’07, computer science and financial economics, and his wife Katelyn Niu ’05, biochemistry, brought their son along for the Homecoming fun. The family enjoyed the endless bushels of crabs with fellow alumni friends. 

“There’s nothing like a UMBC celebration, and what better way to reconnect and reminisce with old friends than with crabs,” said Yang. 

As the carnival lit up the night sky, many attendees made their way to the annual Homecoming Tailgate where they cheered on the men’s soccer team in their victory against the University of Vermont. 

Additional reporting provided by JJ Gee ’25 and Maashal Awan ’25 for UMBC.

Meet Karen Woodard ‘90, English. Karen is chief of the Employment Litigation Section in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and an active member of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving as Vice President of Finance and one of the co-chairs of the Alumni Awards committee. As an undergrad, Karen was heavily involved on campus. She played on the women’s basketball team all four years—serving as team captain her senior year—and was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., serving as president also in her senior year. Karen credits her time at UMBC and its nurturing community for preparing her for future success. Tell us all about it, Karen!

Q: What is your WHY? What brought you to UMBC?

A: I came to UMBC because I believed I would receive a first-class education, could continue my athletic career, and would be supported in both pursuits.

Q: Where have you found support in the UMBC community?

A: As a student, I had so many opportunities to develop my leadership skills as an athlete, as part of Greek life, and in the classroom. When I decided to apply to law school, members of the UMBC community, including professors and coaches, encouraged me to aim high. I applied to and was accepted by several top law schools. I ultimately decided to attend Duke. I could not have achieved that goal without the nurturing and support of the UMBC community.

Q: What’s one essential thing you’d want another Retriever to know about you?

A: While at UMBC, I was a member of the women’s basketball team, a four-year letter winner, and captain during my senior year. I was honored as the Outstanding Scholar Athlete for the 1989 – 1990 season. I also joined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Lambda Kappa Chapter, serving as president from 1989 – 1990. Additionally, I received the Student Affairs Leadership Award.

Left: Karen at the 2013 Chapter of Black & Latinx Alumni (CBLA) Homecoming Throwback Party. Right: Karen and others at the 2016 UMBC Grit & Greekness Alumni Reunion.

Q: Tell us about someone in the community who has inspired you or supported you, and how they did it.

A: During my time at UMBC, I was inspired and supported by the upperclass members of the Lambda Kappa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, These women were accomplished in the classroom and involved in service to the UMBC campus and Baltimore community, and they modeled how to balance all of these important parts of a student’s life with excellence. They each inspired me to achieve and encouraged and supported me as I worked my way though UMBC, and they continue to do the same even today.

After UMBC, I went on to graduate from Duke University School of Law. Currently, I am chief of the Employment Litigation Section in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice.

Q: Tell us more about your current job. What do you like most about it?

A: As a civil rights attorney, I enjoy bringing cases that vindicate the rights of individuals and classes of people those who have been discriminated against to ensure the unlawful behavior is not repeated and the workplace is left better than what it was when we started our case.

Q: How have you stayed connected with the UMBC community?

A: I truly love my work on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, and specifically as co-chair of the Alumni Awards committee. I enjoy working with fellow alumni who love UMBC and are committed to helping get more alumni involved in the Alumni Association and seeing the university continue to thrive. As the co-chair of the awards committee, I look forward to reading about the many accomplished alumni who are nominated. It fills me with a sense of pride to know UMBC produces so many accomplished individuals. I also feel very inspired by my work with the Athletic Department’s Hall of Fame committee.

Q: What’s the one thing you’d want someone who hasn’t joined the UMBC community to know about the support you find here?

A: As an alum, you will feel supported by all levels of the university, including President Valerie Sheares Ashby—who truly cares about all who are connected to UMBC—the Office of Alumni Engagement, and the many staff members who are dedicated to supporting UMBC alumni.

Q: What drives you to support UMBC?

A: I support the Alumni Endowed Scholarship and the UMBC Athletics Department, women’s basketball program. With my support of the alumni scholarship, I know I am pouring into some of the best and brightest of UMBC’s current students. I also find it important as a women’s basketball alum to give back to the program that helped define me as a student. I learned so much and grew so much as a student and athlete during my four years on the team, and I want to do my part to help the current group of athletes succeed.

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Laura Howell; she graduated from UMBC in 1986 with a B.A. in political science. She is an advocate for those with developmental disabilities and the CEO of the Maryland Association of Community Services, having recently celebrated her 20th anniversary in the position. Laura is also an active member of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving as chair of the governance committee. She credits her time at UMBC and the support she received here for preparing her for a career of advocacy and service. Take it away, Laura!

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

A. I graduated from UMBC in 1986 with a degree in political science. It was the perfect major for me, as I knew at an early age that I wanted to be involved in political work. I used my education, experience, and contacts from UMBC to develop a career that has largely focused on advocacy at the state level to make a difference in the lives of Marylanders.

Q: Tell us about your current job. What do you like most about it?

A: I am the CEO of the Maryland Association of Community Services. I just celebrated my 20th anniversary in this position, and the opportunity to be a leader and advocate for and with people with developmental disabilities and the incredible community providers that support them is priceless.

Q: What is your WHY? What brought you to UMBC?

A: To be honest, I attended UMBC starting in 1983 as a kid who grew up in Catonsville and did not have the financial opportunity to attend a more expensive college. I was incredibly fortunate that UMBC was “affordable,” with the help of a lot of financial aid and scholarships. While there were a few other options, UMBC was the only school I ever considered. I was incredibly lucky to have such an amazing university in my backyard!

Q: Tell us your HOW.

A: The professors at UMBC were incredibly supportive. I was a determined student but on the quiet side, and I felt seen by the political science faculty who believed in me and supported my career goals, which started with wanting to work in Annapolis at age 19. UMBC connected me to an internship with a legislator which quickly turned into a job with the University of Maryland’s Legislative Office. The experience I gained in those formative years has served me well ever since.

Q: Tell us about someone in the community who has inspired you or supported you, and how they did it.

A: I met my first mentor, Judy Orlinsky, at the age of 19 through a work-study position I obtained through UMBC. She worked for the University of MD System in Annapolis, and through her support and the opportunities she extended to me, I learned a tremendous amount about the workings of our State Capitol, and how to be successful lobbying for change. As a testament to the strength of that relationship, she is still an important person in my life 40 years later.

Pictured left: Laura standing with her first mentor, Judy Orlinsky, after receiving an award for Best Employee for the State of Maryland, Professional and Administrator Category, for her work in the Maryland Homeless Services Program in the late 80s and early 90s.

Q: What’s your favorite part of Retriever Nation?

A: My favorite part about being a Retriever, in addition to the great education I received, is watching UMBC become a powerhouse nationally as an institution of higher education.

Q: Tell us what you love about your organization.

A: As a member of the UMBC AABOD, it has been great fun to reconnect with UMBC, and to see how it has grown and changed, while still retaining the qualities that made it great in the 80s. To me, a unique part of the DNA of UMBC is that the school will support you to achieve whatever your dream is, even if that dream seems unobtainable as a student.

Q: What drives you to support UMBC?

A: I donate monthly to the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. This has always been meaningful, but I recently realized that a small scholarship from the Endowed Scholarship Fund was the final piece of financial aid that helped me realize my dream of spending a semester in London, studying and interning with a Member of Parliament in 1986. That was truly a full-circle moment.

Pictured right: Laura in London in 1986.

About the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund

Through the Alumni Endowed Scholarship, the board of directors strives to make a difference in the lives of deserving students, to help them achieve their dream of receiving a university degree and joining the alumni community.

The board offers a general and legacy scholarship to outstanding undergraduate UMBC students. Eligible students may apply for the general and legacy scholarships each year. The award for the Alumni Association General and Legacy Scholarships for 2023 – 2024 is at least $2,000. These scholarships are partially funded through the generous support of UMBC alumni.

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Sean McWilliams, M.S. ‘16, applied mathematics. Sean is a portfolio manager at T. Rowe Price and an active member of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving as one of the co-chairs of the Alumni Awards committee. Sean was a non-traditional student who found his way to UMBC as a part-time graduate student while working full-time at T. Rowe Price. Take it away, Sean!

Q: What is your WHY? What brought you to UMBC?

A: After working for a few years I deeply missed the academic rigor of studying mathematics. I wanted to study more math at the graduate level, mostly out of personal interest, while I continued to work. I also wanted to take the same classes that the full-time graduate students would be taking. UMBC’s applied mathematics program was the only one that offered classes with the level of rigor I was seeking that would work with my schedule.

Q: What’s your favorite part of Retriever Nation?

A: I love meeting new alumni and learning about how UMBC helped launch their personal and professional successes after graduation.

Q. What is your HOW? Where did you find support?

A: I enjoyed all of my classes at UMBC and found the professors to be almost universally excellent and passionate teachers. I had especially memorable experiences taking partial differential equations with Kathleen Hoffman, stochastic processes with Muruhan Rathinam, and applied analysis with Animikh Biswas.

Q: What drives you to support UMBC?

A: I specifically donate to support the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. The scholarships this fund supports often have a direct and immediate impact on the recipients’ ability to complete their degrees. It’s gratifying to know my donations help support the fund’s ability to continue to deliver that impact.

About the Alumni Association Board of Directors

UMBC’s Alumni Association is a non-dues-paying organization and is led by a volunteerBoard of Directors—volunteer graduates, like Sean, who support advancing the mission and vision of the association and, by extension, UMBC, through their visibility as alumni leaders and active participants in the ongoing work of the board and its committees.

(Pictured left: Sean McWilliams, Alumni Awards co-chair, at the podium during Alumni Awards 2022.)

About the Alumni Awards

Extraordinary UMBC alumni, faculty, and staff are making a difference in the world, and the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors holds an annual celebration of their accomplishments. Past winners have included a U.S. Surgeon General, a Lucasfilm sound editor, the New Yorker‘s social media director, chief judges, teachers, and scientists advancing fields such as medicine, chemical engineering, physics, and biology. We also honor outstanding UMBC faculty and staff members for their role in guiding and nurturing students.

Five types of awards are given: Outstanding Graduate, Distinguished Service, Rising Star, Outstanding Faculty, and Outstanding Staff.

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Kisha Parker ’00. Kisha is a dual-degree alumna with a B.S. in biological sciences and a B.A. in psychology, and an active member of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving as Chair of the Public Relations Committee. As a student, she was very active, taking leadership roles in several organizations, including the Student Government Association (SGA) as the director of state and national affairs, and the Lambda Kappa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., as president. UMBC is also where Kisha found love–meeting her future husband, Kevin Parker ’99, mechanical engineering, who was also involved in Greek Life as president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Nu Kappa Chapter, and served on the SGA executive board. This alumni power couple is now married with three children and is forever grateful that their paths crossed at UMBC–their forever home. Take it away, Kisha!

Q: What is your WHY? What brought you to UMBC?

A: What led me to UMBC was the size of the classes, academic reputation, and affordability. The bonus was the amazing avenues of support and opportunities to grow once I became a student. My experience at UMBC has led to an amazing circle of friendships, partnerships, resources, and career opportunities.

Q: What’s your favorite part of being a part of Retriever Nation?

A: Retriever Nation is diverse and multi-faceted. I love bragging about our chess team and mock trial championships, just as much as sports and academic entities. I love celebrating the wide net of accomplishments our alumni are doing around the world and the history we are making with UMBC roots.

Q: Where have you found support in the UMBC community?

A: I had a mentor in LaMont Toliver of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, lived with inspiring, smart, and motivated roommates as consistent models of achievement, and became a part of a legacy of like-minded, multifaceted women in my sorority. These relationships have led to many experiences (too numerous to count…and still ongoing!) that helped me grow mentally, academically, professionally, and as a public service enthusiast.

(On the left, Kisha Parker and her Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. sisters over a 25-year span.)

Q: What’s the one thing you’d want someone who hasn’t joined the UMBC community to know about the support you find here?

A: UMBC has a bit of everything. While strong academic programming is already established, our inclusive culture is invaluable. The support to be successful is here and in multiple forms. Whether it is in the form of day-one-ready mentorship, financial support opportunities, well-thought-out facilities to enhance the student experience and future studies, or administrative planning with students, staff, and alumni in mind, the avenues of support are multifaceted.

Q: Tell us about what you love about an organization you’re involved in.

A: I am a member of the Board of Directors of the UMBC Alumni Association. What I love about this organization is being able to further engage alumni in different ways, contribute to efforts to keep our community connected and aware, and promote UMBC’s brand. I have been able to see UMBC through a very different lens as an alum than I was as a busy and active student, and it has been integral to happily volunteering my time, financial support, and event support.

(On the right, Kisha Parker in her cap and gown on graduation day.)

Q: What drives you to support UMBC?

A: Over the years, I have supported many programs financially, but the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund is one I make sure to always support. It allows an avenue for the Alumni Association to award current, deserving students an opportunity to continue their education in ways they need. I have been able to see the impact of these scholarships through the personal testimonies of the recipients, witness the process of awarding these scholarships, and am confident that this donation (and many others!) is going to good and immediate use!

About the Alumni Association Board of Directors

UMBC’s Alumni Association is a non ­dues-paying organization and is led by a volunteerBoard of Directors—volunteer graduates, like Lisa, who support advancing the mission and vision of the association and, by extension, UMBC, through their visibility as alumni leaders and active participants in the ongoing work of the board and its committees.

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Lisa Nissley ‘01, political science. Lisa is a legislative liaison at the Department of General Services, as well as the chair of the mominating committee on the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors. In her spare time, you can find her at the ice rink (her two children are involved in figure skating and ice hockey), the pool (swim team), or the lacrosse field. Lisa also enjoys reading, cooking (when it’s not required), walking, and being creative. Take it away, Lisa!

Q: What’s the one thing you’d want someone who hasn’t joined the UMBC community to know about the support you find here?

A: It truly is a community, and that is a feeling that stays with you. I have worked in the political world of campaigns and government relations and always seem to connect with UMBC grads, some I knew and others who were there before or after me. Also, the community is diverse, so there is always someone to connect with and learn from. 

Q: Where did you find support when you were here?

A. When I came to UMBC, I was eager to find community and feel like I belonged and I wanted to build my career. The interesting thing is how those two goals aligned. I joined student organizations, interned in Annapolis, and made friends in class. Some of those very people have been in my corner ever since.

Q: Who is someone in the community who has inspired you or supported you?

A: Dr. Tom Schaller—I always enjoyed his classes and he was involved in the political world, so I would see him out in the world doing what he talked about in class. He assigned long research papers we worked on throughout the semester, and what seemed daunting at first turned out to be very interesting. I was lucky to assist in his research. We have stayed in touch over the years and he has shared advice and guidance throughout my career.

Q: Tell us more about your journey from UMBC to your current role.

A: I actually transferred to UMBC and didn’t expect to stay, but I loved it! I eventually graduated in 2001 with a political science degree. Over the years since graduating, I have been a state employee working in the legislative branch and various state agencies doing policy and government relations. Recently, I started at the Department of General Services in the legislative office. I am enjoying being back in Annapolis full-time and being part of the legislative process.

Q: How have you given back?

A. I serve on the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors (AABOD) as chair of the nominating committee. I really enjoy giving back to the UMBC community in this way. We work to have a diverse board that represents the alumni community, and I’m always impressed by the exciting things our alumni are doing out in the world. I also give annually to the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. Through the Alumni Endowed Scholarship, the AABOD strives to make a difference in the lives of deserving students, to help them achieve their dream of receiving a university degree and joining the alumni community.

About the Alumni Association Board of Directors

UMBC’s Alumni Association is a non ­dues-paying organization and is led by a volunteerBoard of Directors—volunteer graduates, like Lisa, who support advancing the mission and vision of the association and, by extension, UMBC, through their visibility as alumni leaders and active participants in the ongoing work of the board and its committees.

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Monique Jones Cephas ‘92, information systems management. Monique is the Deputy Associate Commissioner for the Office of Electronic Services and Systems Integration at the Social Security Administration and the current Scholarship Committee Chair of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors. Monique credits her time at UMBC and participation in the university’s cooperative education program—along with a lot of hard work, perseverance, and dedication—for her career success. “Each one, reach one” is one of Monique’s favorite mantras. This is why she gives back to UMBC as an active member of the Alumni Association. Take it away, Monique!

Q: What’s your favorite part of Retriever Nation?

A. As a member of the UMBC Alumni Association, I enjoy connecting alums with other alums, alums with current students, and enriching our UMBC network. It is imperative to me to help students understand the dynamics of building their network even before graduating from UMBC with hopes of using this network to find a position in their field of study.

In addition to my service on the alumni board, I was also a founder of the Chapter of Black and LatinX Alumni (CBLA). Founded in 2006, CBLA was formed to create multicultural programming and continue intercultural interactions for the UMBC Black and Latinx community. CBLA is open to all UMBC alumni and in alignment with UMBC’s value of Inclusive Excellence, we want alumni members to join us in building our culturally conscious community. 

Q: What do you love about your academic program or an organization you’re involved in?

A. I am an avid public servant. In 1990, I was initiated as a member of the Lambda Kappa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., which is the first Greek letter organization on UMBC’s campus. I love the sisterhood, advocating for justice, and helping young people to achieve their dreams by awarding scholarships. My lifetime commitment to public service and the values that were instilled in me as a leader with the Lambda Kappa chapter have carried over to make me a successful president of the Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter with more than 400 members. 

“

It is imperative to me to help students understand the dynamics of building their network even before graduating from UMBC with hopes of using this network to find a position in their field of study.

Monique Cephas ‘92

Q: Where did you find support at UMBC?

A. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in UMBC’s cooperative education program starting in 1991 as this is how I started my career at the Social Security Administration (SSA) as a computer specialist. I have worked at SSA for more than 32 years moving up the career ladder from an IT specialist to a team leader, office director, and now a member of the Senior Executive Service as the Deputy Associate Commissioner for the Office of Electronic Services and Systems Integration.

Q: How have you given back?

A. I love to support the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. As someone who worked their way through college, the mission of that fund is near and dear to my heart. I know that the donations I make will be put to good use by a student in need. This year the board received scholarship applications from 41 qualified students, but we were only able to award $18,000 total to nine students. As chair of the Alumni Association Board of Director’s scholarship committee, I know we can help more deserving students. We hope to award even more scholarships in the future—with your help.

The UMBC Alumni Endowed Scholarship

Through the Alumni Endowed Scholarship, the board of directors strives to make a difference in the lives of deserving students, to help them achieve their dream of receiving a university degree and joining the alumni community.

The board offers a general and legacy scholarship to outstanding undergraduate UMBC students. Eligible students may apply for the general and legacy scholarships each year. The award for the Alumni Association General and Legacy Scholarships for 2023 – 2024 is at least $2,000. These scholarships are partially funded through the generous support of UMBC alumni.

Make a Gift

* * * * *

UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Kevin Yang ’07, computer science and financial economics. Kevin is a real estate entrepreneur, the current executive vice president and vice president of finance of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors, and one half of an alumni power couple. Kevin met his wife, Katelyn Niu ’05, biochemistry, when the pair found themselves in the same physics study group as undergrads (because where else do you find love at UMBC?). They both share a passion for UMBC that runs deep. Take it away, Kevin!

Q: What is your WHY? What brought you to UMBC? 

A. I grew up in an immigrant family and witnessed the sacrifices that my parents made to give me an opportunity to achieve the American dream. Although they never had the chance to finish high school, my parents firmly believed in the importance of higher education. I came to UMBC for a quality STEM education and found it to be a perfect fit. UMBC offered the resources of a larger university and the individualized attention of a smaller college.

Q: What’s your favorite part of Retriever Nation?

A. I love UMBC’s commitment to inclusive excellence. Retriever Nation welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and provides them with the necessary support to succeed at UMBC and beyond. I am forever grateful for the amazing experience that I had at UMBC! In addition to receiving a quality education, I made many lifelong friends, including my wife. I have stayed engaged since graduation, and I am proud of UMBC’s commitment to inclusive excellence.

Q: Tell us what you love about your academic program or an organization you’re involved in.

A. I had an excellent experience with the computer science program, which offered many opportunities beyond the classroom. As a tutor, teaching assistant, and research assistant in the computer science department, I learned valuable written and verbal communication skills, which was a highlight of my UMBC education.

Today, I am a real estate entrepreneur, the Founder of KRY Properties. As a business owner, I love the ability to chart my own path. I often have to assume multiple roles, which is both challenging and rewarding. The analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills that I developed at UMBC gave me the confidence to pursue entrepreneurship.

Q: Where did you find support? 

A. I built meaningful and long-lasting relationships at UMBC. I attribute much of my personal growth and academic achievements to my peers. We struggled together in challenging engineering courses, contemplated our futures from late night into early morning, and celebrated our birthdays at the local Olive Garden. We strengthened our bonds through highs and lows, and I will forever cherish those special memories.

Q: Tell us about someone in the community who has inspired you.

A. I received substantial financial and academic support from the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, which laid the foundation for my personal and professional successes. As a Meyerhoff Scholar, I learned about and took advantage of many incredible opportunities, such as summer internships at Georgia Tech and MIT. The Meyerhoff Scholars Program and its co-founder, Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski, III, have inspired me to give back to the community that gave me so much.

Q: As alumni, how have you and Katelyn given back?

A. “To whom much is given, much is required.” I have been a donor every year since I graduated in 2007. My support focuses on scholarships, including the Meyerhoff Scholars Program and the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. My wife, Katelyn, and I established an endowed scholarship in 2014 to support undergraduate students. Katelyn and I were fortunate to receive scholarships at UMBC. We are giving back so students who come after us can continue to have the same extraordinary experience that shaped our future.

Q: What’s the one thing you’d want someone who hasn’t joined the UMBC community to know about the support you find here?

A. UMBC community members work together to help our students achieve their academic and professional goals. We are proud of our collaborative culture!

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UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.

Meet Jennifer Herson ’99, interdisciplinary studies. Jen is an executive at Data Canopy, a data center and cloud company, and the current Vice President of Operations of the UMBC Alumni Association Board of Directors. As a board member, Jen believes deeply in the mission of UMBC and the sense of community and belonging this institution fosters. She helps perpetuate these values through her work on the board and as a donor. Take it away, Jen!

Q: What’s the one thing you’d want someone who hasn’t joined the UMBC community to know about the support you find here?

A: Everyone can find their people here. I wasn’t a traditional student and I didn’t choose a science-focused major, but UMBC was the absolute best choice for me as it allowed me to customize my experience and find what worked for me so that I had the confidence to follow the path that worked for me. 

Q: What’s one essential thing you’d want another Retriever to know about you?

A: My area of study was interdisciplinary studies with a focus on visual arts, English, and modern language and linguistics. In my role as an executive at Data Canopy, a data center and cloud company, I have touched everything from operations and finance to marketing. I actually use (and have always used) my degree daily. I’m a mom to a ten-year-old, an avid concert-goer/music enthusiast, and, when I’m not cheering on my son at hockey, I like to root for the Baltimore Orioles or Washington Capitals. 

Q: What’s your favorite part of being a part of Retriever Nation?

A: Being a part of Retriever Nation is a point of pride. We’re not just a little school from Baltimore County, we’re a community of people with a similar dedication to excellence–and it’s evident everywhere you see us. 

Q: What drives you to support the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund?

A: I love to support the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. As someone who worked their way through college, the mission of that fund is near and dear to my heart. I know that the donations I make will be put to good use by a student in need. 

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UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.

Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.