Dear UMBC Community,
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently issued a final rule that changes how long certain international students, exchange visitors, and their dependents may remain in the United States.
Please note that there is a strong possibility that litigation or congressional review could pause, delay, or limit the implementation of the policy described in this message. DHS has also acknowledged that implementation of certain components of the new rule could be delayed for up to two years if implementation “is infeasible for any reason.” We will continue to keep the campus community informed as new information emerges.
Please remember that each individual’s circumstances are different, and this communication is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. If you have specific questions and hold F, H, or J immigration status, please contact the Center for Global Engagement (CGE). If you have specific questions and hold another immigration status, please consult with a private immigration attorney.
New DHS Rule Limits Stay for International Students and Exchange Visitors
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule titled “Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media.”
This rule, which goes into effect on September 15, 2026, officially ends a decades-old framework known as “duration of status” (D/S) under which international students and exchange visitors were allowed to remain lawfully in the United States for an open-ended period, provided they maintained full-time enrollment and made normal progress toward their academic goals. Under the new rule, international students and scholars will be provided with a firm, fixed date by which they must complete their educational objectives or request approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for an extension of stay (EOS).
This change will require certain international students and scholars who need additional time to complete their academic objectives to file extension-of-stay applications with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Prior to this shift, such extensions could be processed by university officials.
Important Transitional Rules for Current F-1 Students and J-1 Exchange Visitors
The rule includes special transitional provisions for F-1 international students and J-1 exchange visitors who are physically present in the United States when the new rule takes effect on September 15. The admission period of such individuals will remain valid through the program end date listed on their current Form I-20 or DS-2019, or for a maximum of four years from the effective date of the rule (September 15, 2030), whichever comes first. However, individuals who travel outside of the United States after September 15, 2026, will receive a strict, fixed “Admit Until Date” capped at a maximum of four years upon reentering through a U.S. port of entry.
Additional Considerations and Implications for Our UMBC Community
While this new rule represents a major overhaul of the immigration regulations governing the authorized stay of international students and scholars in the U.S., the advising team in CGE remains committed to supporting all impacted members of our campus community.
Over the next few weeks, our advising team will participate in in-depth training related to the new regulations. We will also organize information sessions for campus community members and work with campus partners to update online resources and workflows to align with the new requirements. We ask all impacted international students, exchange visitors, and academic advisors to note the following:
How We Are Responding: CGE is actively tracking developments related to this new rule, including potential litigation and DHS implementation delays. We are also working to update our administrative systems, train our compliance staff, and develop informational resources for campus partners. Impacted international students and exchange visitors will be invited to information sessions, and we are planning outreach to academic advisors, program directors, and other campus stakeholders.
Familiarize Yourself with the New Rule: A much more detailed version of this communication describing technical components of the new rule was sent directly to F-1 international students and J-1 exchange visitors. That message is also posted on CGE’s Immigration Policy Updates page. We strongly recommend that all F-1 international students, J-1 exchange visitors, academic advisors, and program directors review this message.
Assess Program Trajectory Now: Because normal academic setbacks, such as needing to retake a failed course, may no longer justify an immigration extension, proactive academic advising is more critical than ever. Faculty and academic departments must work closely with international students to ensure they stay on track toward graduation. Similarly, students and exchange visitors who already know that they will require an extension request to complete their academic objectives are strongly advised to consult with an advisor in the Center for Global Engagement before the new rule takes effect.
We appreciate your patience as we work through the changes imposed by the new rule.
Contact
If you have any questions related to the updates shared in this message, please contact CGE’s Office of International Students & Scholars. Additional information and resources related to immigration and other federal policy updates will be made available on our dedicated institutional updates page.
Sincerely,
David L. Di Maria
Vice Provost for Global Engagement
Dear UMBC Community,
We write to you today on behalf of the Federal Orders and Actions Core Team to update you on some recent federal government actions and how they will or may impact UMBC.
OMB Proposed Regulation for Federal Assistance
On May 29, 2026, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposed the Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance to substantially revise the federal grants framework. OMB’s proposed “Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance” is the most significant update to the Uniform Guidance in decades, impacting over $60 billion in federal research and social assistance programs, such as Medicaid and FEMA. The proposed rule expands executive branch authority and incorporates several executive orders—including restrictions on DEI and gender-affirming care funding.
The 320-plus proposed revisions to the Uniform Guidance would fundamentally alter the awarding and monitoring of federal grants. For higher education and research institutions, these changes threaten to increase administrative and compliance burdens, shift more costs to recipients, and expand institutional liability. Ultimately, these revisions risk slowing the pace of U.S. scientific discovery and innovation.
The significant changes in this proposal were highlighted in a three-page joint statement recently issued by the Association of American Universities (AAU), the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities Council on Research (APLU-COR), and the Council on Government Relations (COGR).
The proposed rules are prompting coordinated responses nationwide. We are in regular contact with colleagues across the University System of Maryland (USM) regarding these proposed changes and are discussing options for an institutional response in coordination with other USM institutions to inform our federal congressional delegation of the potential impact should these proposed regulations become law.
The proposal is currently open for public comment through July 13, 2026, with a stated intent for the regulation to become effective October 1, 2026. We are also actively reviewing the proposed revisions, monitoring updates from AAU, and contributing to and benefitting from the national conversation through APLU-COR and COGR.
We will continue to update you as the situation with this proposed rule evolves.
Update on USCIS Adjudicative Hold on Applications and $100,000 H1-B Policy
There have been developments in two federal policy court cases as outlined below.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Adjudicative Hold on Applications for Certain Immigration Benefits Struck Down by District Court
On January 1, 2026, USCIS issued an updated policy memorandum, expanding on its December 2, 2025, memorandum, directing USCIS personnel to place a hold on all pending immigration benefit applications submitted by nationals of countries and territories included in the Trump administration’s travel ban. It also called for a review of previously approved applications.
On June 5, 2026, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued a memorandum and order declaring the USCIS Global Asylum Hold Policy, the Comprehensive Re-Review Policy, and the Country-Specific Factors Policy unlawful.
On June 12, 2026, USCIS confirmed that it would follow the terms of the court’s order pending possible further judicial review.
The Trump administration has indicated that it intends to appeal the court’s decision, but unless and until that happens, UMBC students, faculty, and staff from travel ban countries and territories should no longer be subject to adjudicative holds or reviews of approvals previously made by USCIS.
$100,000 H-1B Fee Policy Vacated by District Court, However Vacate Order is Temporarily Paused to Allow an Appeal
Last September, President Trump issued a proclamation, “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” requiring employers to make payment of a $100,000 government fee per each individual H-1B employee seeking to enter the United States, unless an exception is granted. In response, the State of Maryland joined a coalition of 19 other states in suing over this policy. UMBC filed a declaration supporting this multi-state suit.
On June 8, 2026, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts ruled that the $100,000 fee created a tax for which the president did not have the authority to impose. However, on June 12, 2026, the district court temporarily paused its order vacating that fee because the government is requesting an appeal. The district court has given the government until June 18, 2026, to file its appeal. If the government does not file their appeal by that deadline, the lower court’s vacate order will be reinstated.
While the vacate order is paused, USCIS is permitted to require the $100,000 fee for petitions that are filed for or require consular processing.
We recognize that the unpredictability of federal rulemaking and policy can be distressing for members of our UMBC community. Please be assured that we are doing everything we can to stay ahead of the shifting landscape and communicate to our community about what we are doing in response. We appreciate your partnership and understanding as our campus community navigates the current environment.
Regards,
Karl V. Steiner
Vice President for Research and Creative Achievement and Chief Research Officer
David L. Di Maria
Vice Provost for Global Engagement
Dear Colleagues,
I am writing to update you regarding recent changes to federal immigration and visa policies.
Please remember that each individual’s circumstances are different, and this communication is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. If you have specific questions and hold F-1, H-1B, or J-1 immigration status, please contact the Center for Global Engagement. If you have specific questions and hold another immigration status, including legal permanent residency, please consult with a private immigration attorney. As a reminder, UMBC employees have access to free consultations with qualified attorneys via the Employee Assistance Program.
1. Major Change to the Green Card Application Process
On May 21, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a policy memorandum reminding its officers and the public that adjustment of status to permanent residence under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is a matter of discretion and administrative grace and is not designed to supersede regular consular processing of immigrant visas. The new guidance highlights that the adjustment of status process is a grant of “extraordinary relief” from consular processing.
Please note that the memo issued on May 21, 2026, applies specifically to the filing of adjustment of status to permanent residence and does not affect the earlier steps in the green card process, whether self-petitioned or employer-sponsored.
The final step in the permanent residence process is completed by filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). The preliminary stages may still be prepared and filed while the beneficiary is physically present in the United States.
If you are sponsored by UMBC, the preliminary stages may include the Prevailing Wage Determination (Form ETA-9141), the PERM labor certification process (Form ETA-9089), and the immigrant petition (Form I-140). These steps can be completed while you remain in the U.S.
If you are self-petitioning, please continue to communicate with your personal immigration counsel so they can best advise you on your particular case.
What Changed?
Foreign nationals living in the U.S., such as employees holding H-1B visas, have historically been able to complete their entire green card application without leaving the country. This new policy does not prohibit foreign nationals from applying for adjustment of status from within the U.S. nor does it remove the ability of USCIS officers to approve these petitions. It does, however, place renewed emphasis on consular processing outside of the U.S.
The New Standard (“Consular Processing”): Certain applicants will be required to travel outside the U.S. to interview and receive their green card at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in another country.
Applying from Within the U.S. is Still Possible: While it is still technically possible to apply for adjustment of status without leaving the U.S., it is no longer the default route. The memo places the burden of proof on applicants to prove that their petition is both extraordinary and highly deserving.
Stricter Screening: USCIS officers have been formally instructed to be much tougher when reviewing these inside-the-U.S. requests. They will review all positive and negative factors, including family ties, immigration status and history, moral character, and any other factor deemed relevant for determining whether the applicant warrants a favorable exercise of discretion.
What Does This Mean for UMBC International Employees and Their Departments?
If your department is sponsoring an employee for a green card, or if you are an employee currently in the process of applying or planning to apply for adjustment of status, please note the following:
It is Still Very Early: Over the coming days and weeks, we anticipate that USCIS will release greater detail on how this policy will be implemented. Additionally, there could be litigation that pauses or limits the effect of the policy.
Plan for Travel: Both the employee and their department should factor international travel into scheduling plans. The availability of visa appointments and consular processing times varies significantly from country to country, so it is possible that some employees may be delayed abroad.
You Still Have Support: The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) and UMBC’s authorized outside immigration counsel, Fragomen, will continue to help departments and employees navigate the steps for adjustment of status. We will provide further updates once it becomes clearer how this new policy will impact adjustment of status applications going forward. If you are an employee who self-petitioned for adjustment of status, please reach out to your personal immigration counsel. If you are an employee for whom UMBC sponsored your adjustment of status petition, please contact Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb at dianezg@umbc.edu.
2. Arrival Restrictions Related to Ebola
Because of the recent Ebola outbreak, the U.S. Government has implemented new travel restrictions for anyone arriving from, or who was otherwise present in, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), South Sudan, or Uganda.
If you are planning to travel internationally, please be aware that entry and exit restrictions for the U.S. and other countries can change without warning.
Who is Restricted from Entering the U.S.?
The CDC has temporarily banned entry into the U.S. for anyone who has traveled from—or even just passed through—the DRC, South Sudan, or Uganda within the last 21 days.
Foreign Nationals: A 30-day ban is currently in effect for foreign nationals (starting May 18, 2026).
Green Card Holders: Starting May 27, 2026, this travel ban will be officially extended to include Legal Permanent Residents, also known as Green Card holders.
Note: The government may choose to extend these bans beyond the initial 30-day window.
Mandatory Flight Rerouting
As a precaution, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is requiring any flight carrying passengers who have recently been in the DRC, South Sudan, or Uganda to land only at designated airports, which currently include Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Virginia.
What University Employees Need to Do
The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) is monitoring these Ebola-related travel restrictions very closely.
If you are traveling abroad on university business, you must follow these steps:
Get Pre-Approval: All international business trips must be approved ahead of time using Concur and the International Travel Registry.
Register Your Full Itinerary: If you are mixing personal vacation time with your business trip, you must include your entire itinerary in the system. This ensures UMBC knows where you are and can alert or assist you if borders suddenly close or emergencies arise. If your trip is solely a personal vacation with no university business, then you should not register it with UMBC.
If you have any questions related to the updates shared in this message, please contact CGE’s Office of International Students & Scholars.
Additional information and resources related to immigration and other federal policy updates are available on UMBC’s Federal Orders and Actions Page.
Sincerely,
David L. Di Maria
Vice Provost for Global Engagement
Dear UMBC Community,
Today, I am very pleased to share the Strategic Plan Steering Committee’s significant progress this semester towards completion of the UMBC strategic plan.
As a reminder, the strategic plan will be built on five pillars: cultivating organizational innovation and vitality; redefining excellence in research and creative achievement; strengthening Maryland and its communities; advancing student opportunity and success; and transforming teaching and learning.
Earlier this academic year, the Strategic Plan Steering Committee formed five subgroups, each dedicated to creating a plan for a pillar. The subgroups included committee members and additional campus community members who have experience and expertise in the areas that each pillar is designed to address. Each of the five subgroups has now drafted a plan for its respective pillar. These drafts incorporate your valuable and insightful feedback gathered through:
engagements with stakeholder groups this semester;
the spring campus-wide Strategic Plan survey;
the 2025 Campus Climate survey;
website feedback forms;
the 2024 Core Values survey;
the fall 2023 Shared Governance survey; and
the Bold Conversations held in early 2023.
President Sheares Ashby and I, and the steering committee, thank every community member who generously contributed their ideas in group sessions and conversations, and through the extended pillar subgroups. We also are grateful to those who took time to complete the surveys and shared feedback via the website form. This is the UMBC community’s strategic plan. Your participation in the engagements and surveys supports all of our community members seeing themselves in the final strategic plan.
President Sheares Ashby and I also extend our gratitude to the dedicated, hard-working members of the Strategic Plan Steering Committee. Their time and talent over the past year have been vital in reaching this pivotal moment. Please join us in thanking this committee, who so beautifully represented our UMBC campus community.
With the pillar plans finished, we are now drafting the full strategic plan for a September 2026 launch around the same time that we celebrate the 60th anniversary of UMBC opening its doors. Details on plan rollout activities and resources will follow early next academic year.
Thank you, everyone, for your commitment to UMBC’s future.
Sincerely,
Charissa S. L. Cheah
Professor, Psychology and Asian Studies Affiliate Faculty
Chair, Strategic Plan Steering Committee
Dear Faculty and Staff,
I am writing to share additional information on the university’s budget outlook for the coming fiscal year, as well as our long-term work to enhance our budget-planning capabilities.
As we shared with you last month, the State of Maryland has set an operating budget of $70.8 billion for Fiscal Year 2027. Following significant reductions in the state’s allocation to the University System of Maryland in FY26, the new budget does not contain any direct cuts to our institution and provides a modest increase of $7 million, or 0.3 percent, to the system overall. The state’s allocation to UMBC for FY27 will be approximately $210 million.
I invite you to learn more about the higher education-related outcomes from this year’s legislative session by reading the USM’s 2026 Legislative Session Report, which provides detailed information on budget and policy actions taken this year. We are grateful for the state’s continued support of higher education, keeping the USM’s operating budget whole even as the state grappled with a $1.5 billion shortfall.
Meanwhile, we are engaged at UMBC in important work to better understand how resources are allocated and managed across the university and to develop a clear, straightforward, and more sustainable budget-planning model for the years ahead. That work involves thorough analysis of expenditures, operations, staffing, and long-term financial projections across academic and administrative units.
In light of the state’s allocation and this ongoing long-term work, we will maintain a flat operating budget for FY27. We believe this is the most thoughtful and responsible approach as we gather more complete information, strengthen our financial planning processes, and develop the tools and projections necessary to support future decisions.
The state’s budget provides $35.7 million toward a 1.5 percent cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) for state-funded employees across all USM institutions, effective July 1. That allocation will not cover the full cost of the increase for UMBC employees; we will absorb the remaining cost centrally to be able to provide the 1.5 percent COLA to all employees. We recognize that such support for faculty and staff is critical in the current challenging economic environment.
Indeed, these continue to be challenging times for many individuals, families, and for the sector of higher education. Many colleges and universities, including UMBC, are navigating significant financial pressures, including challenges related to evolving federal priorities and research funding; rising operational costs, including utilities and benefits; enrollment pressures; and broader economic uncertainty.
All of this underscores the need to improve our budget planning and to ensure that our resources align with our strategic priorities. Over the past year, we have taken a number of strategic steps to help manage financial pressures, including carefully evaluating vacant positions and choosing not to refill some positions when doing so would not negatively affect core operations or student support. These decisions, while not always easy, have helped reduce immediate financial strain and position us more thoughtfully for the future.
As you know, we also are making great strides in our strategic planning process. In a time of financial pressure, it is essential that we think carefully and create strategies to remain focused on our highest priorities. Strategic planning helps us clarify our priorities, identify where we can have the greatest impact, and inform where to focus our resources to advance UMBC’s mission and future. Our strategic plan will help guide decision-making about what we sustain and strengthen and provide clarity about what we cannot or should not do.
I look forward to setting this course with all of you with a new strategic plan in the fall. As we proceed on that path and in our budget-planning work, we will keep you informed. We are committed to collaboration, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making as we build a stronger long-term financial model and a bright future for UMBC.
With appreciation,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby
Dear UMBC Community,
Commencement is almost upon us! The first day of classes and Commencement are my favorite days of the year, and this year is no exception. We have so much to celebrate this year as we honor the graduates who will receive their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees later this week.
The road has not been easy, of course, and the contexts for our graduating students continue to be challenging, whether individual or global in nature. Commencement ceremonies, though, are a joyful occasion reflecting on the work and growth of our graduates and the contributions they have made to their chosen fields, to UMBC, and to the world beyond. Commencement also is a chance to express our gratitude to all who have accompanied students on their journeys—their families and friends, fellow students, mentors, advisors, and so many faculty and staff members.
This year feels even more meaningful for me as I celebrate the undergraduate Class of 2026, most of whom began their UMBC journeys at the same time I did, in the fall of 2022. It has been an honor to walk this path with you. Happy Commencement week to us all!
Sincerely,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby
Dear UMBC Community,
We write today to share key information and reminders as the semester winds down. Thank you for your questions and feedback throughout the academic year as we worked to keep you informed about U.S. government orders and policy actions.
END OF ACADEMIC YEAR AND SUMMER TRAVEL CONSIDERATIONS
We recognize that many members of our community may have travel plans that include travel outside of the United States. We understand that travel is a personal decision, and we are writing today to equip you with information to help guide your planning.
General Guidance
Before traveling abroad, make certain that your passport and any required visas or other authorizations are valid for the destination(s) you intend to visit as well as for reentry into the United States. For more information on entry and exit requirements, please consult the Embassy or Consulate of the country to which you intend to travel or transit through.
U.S. Visas
Anyone applying for a new visa at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy should be prepared for the possibility of enhanced screening and/or processing delays.
If you are planning to travel abroad and will require a new visa in order to reenter the United States, it is strongly recommended that you secure your visa appointment in advance to ensure there is time for processing before you intend to return to the United States. In addition to expanded screening and vetting of online presence, visa applicants should also be aware that the Washington Post recently reported that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio directed consular officers to ask all nonimmigrant visa applicants two new questions:
“Have you experienced harm or mistreatment in your country of nationality or last habitual residence?” and
“Do you fear harm or mistreatment in returning to your country of nationality or permanent residence?”
If you have any questions about whether you need a new visa to reenter the United States, please contact the Center for Global Engagement at 410-455-2831.
Travel Bans
President Trump’s proclamations 10949 and 10988, which established nationality-based full and partial travel bans, are still in effect. These proclamations include entry restrictions for certain immigrants and nonimmigrants from 39 countries and individuals traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued documents.
We strongly encourage you not to travel internationally if you are impacted by one of these bans as doing so could result in an inability to return to the United States while the bans are in effect. The list of countries subject to either the full or partial travel ban can be found here.
Duration of Status
The U.S. government is planning to change how long international students and exchange visitors can stay in the country. The proposed rule will affect F-1 international students and J-1 exchange students and scholars.
What are the proposed changes?
The current rule (flexible): Right now, most international students (F visas), exchange visitors (J visas), and foreign media (I visas) are allowed to stay in the U.S. for as long as it takes to finish their academic programs or research. This is known as “duration of status.”
The new rule (strict time limits): The government wants to replace this flexible system with a fixed time limit. Under the new rule, impacted individuals would generally be allowed to stay for a maximum of four years.
Needing more time: If a student or researcher needs more than four years to finish their objectives due to a change in their major, unexpected research delays, etc., they will have to formally apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permission to extend their stay.
Cap on intensive English study: Students primarily studying English as a second language will be capped at 24 months.
Prohibition on lateral or reverse matriculation: F-1 visa holders will be prohibited from pursuing a program at the same or lower educational level than one already completed.
Shorter grace period: F-1 students are currently allowed a grace period of 60 days following completion of their studies or training to prepare for departure, change status, or file for an extension. The new rule would shorten this period to 30 days.
Why mention a proposed rule now?
While this rule is not yet official, it is moving forward quickly. When it goes into effect after it is entered into the Federal Register, we will notify our community. In the meantime, we want to ensure international students and researchers are prepared for two main reasons:
It is close to becoming final: On May 5, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security submitted the final draft of this rule for government review. This is one of the very last steps before a new rule becomes official.
It could impact summer travelers: The rule is expected to take effect this summer. If it does, any affected international student or researcher who travels abroad and returns to the U.S. after the effective date will be placed on the new, strict timeline rather than the current, flexible one.
FOR FACULTY: IMPACT OF EXECUTIVE ORDERS AND FEDERAL ACTIONS ON PROMOTION AND TENURE REVIEWS
Faculty Affairs has shared “Updates on Impact of Executive Orders and Federal Actions on Promotion and Tenure Reviews,” with guidelines for the AY 2026 – 27 promotion cycle. We wanted to ensure that all potentially impacted faculty members have reviewed this information.
In summary, modified promotion and tenure protocols for the AY 26 – 27 cycle remain in effect. These protocols address the impact of federal actions—including changes to research funding and DEIA initiatives—on faculty research, teaching, and service. This guidance will be integrated into all levels of the promotion and tenure review process, from department deliberations to the provost’s annual instructions.
RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACHIEVEMENT
National Science Foundation (NSF)
On April 24, 2026, the Trump administration fired all 22 members of the National Science Board (NSB), the independent body overseeing the $9 billion National Science Foundation. We actively continue to monitor the impacts of this and many other federal actions on a continuing basis and will update the UMBC community as we learn more about potential impacts of upcoming federal changes.
REMINDERS ABOUT RESOURCES
Federal immigration enforcement cards, published in English and Spanish, are available in offices and divisions across campus, including the Center for Global Engagement and the Mosaic Center. The card and related FAQs are available on our Federal Orders and Actions website.
The Office of General Counsel has provided a guide for supervisors and employees regarding U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) site visits. These visits verify information in employment-based visa petitions (like H-1B) and may involve reviewing documents, inspecting workspaces, or interviewing staff. It is important to note that these are fact-finding visits, not ICE enforcement operations. Please consult the guide for instructions on handling a USCIS visit.
Finally, the Latin Hispanic Faculty Association (LHFA) recently shared requests for additional protocols and guidance related to federal immigration enforcement. The university administration is working with the LHFA to develop additional guidance and resources that will be made available to our community when ready.
We will continue to monitor developments and serve as a resource throughout the summer. We wish every member of the UMBC community a safe, enjoyable, and peaceful summer.
Regards,
The UMBC Federal Orders and Actions Core Team
Valerie Sheares Ashby, President
Manfred H. M. van Dulmen, Provost and Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs
Tanyka M. Barber, Vice President, Institutional Equity and Chief Diversity Officer
Kacey Hammel, Chief of Staff to the President
Renique T. Kersh, Vice President, Student Affairs
Paul A. Meggett, Vice President and General Counsel
D. Paul Monteiro, Vice President, Government Relations and Community Affairs
Karl V. Steiner, Vice President, Research and Creative Achievement
Lisa K. Van Riper, Vice President, University Communications and Marketing
David L. Di Maria, Vice Provost, Global Engagement
Yvette Mozie-Ross ’88, Vice Provost, Enrollment Management and Planning
Ana Oskoz, Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs
Dear UMBC Community,
Happy Last Day of Classes! To our students: I wish you all the best on your final exams, papers, and projects—you are almost there, and I know you can finish strong. To our faculty and staff: Thank you for your dedication to our students and to your work across all departments and every corner of our campus.
To our entire campus community: Congratulations on all you have achieved during this semester and throughout the academic year. I know it has been challenging on many fronts; I hope you all take time to pause and reflect on what you have accomplished and the positive difference you have made for others.
I look forward to joining you in celebrating our graduating students at Spring Commencement next week!
Sincerely,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby
Dear UMBC Community,
I recently had one of those days that reminded me—through a richly diverse set of experiences—exactly who we are. I had the opportunity to attend three events the first Saturday in May that showcased in different ways the strengths of our community and the contributions UMBC makes to the state of Maryland.
My day began at an open house at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where UMBC faculty, students, and partners are advancing research on the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. The family-friendly open house gave visitors a chance to experience IMET’s research through hands-on science activities, conversations with scientists, and demonstrations exploring marine science. I could see curiosity taking hold in the minds of the attendees.
Then it was on to Maryland History Day, a celebration of the humanities and the culmination of the Maryland History Day contest that we have hosted on our campus for more than two decades. A partnership with Maryland Humanities, the event brought hundreds of middle and high school students whose questions and perspectives are adding to our understanding of history.
I ended the day at the Linehan Concert Hall, listening to “Songs of Freedom,” a concert by the UMBC Jubilee Singers and Gospel Choir. The music was powerful, carrying stories and history and bringing people together. Three different spaces, three different ways of connecting, learning, and contributing to our communities: That is UMBC.
With deep appreciation,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby
Dear UMBC Community,
Last week’s Administrative Professionals Day breakfast was a beautiful occasion to honor the integral contributions of UMBC’s administrative support staff. Across campus, their work brings order to complexity and clarity to what needs to happen next. They notice what others might miss, step in where needed, and ensure that the work of the university moves forward with intention and care.
It was a privilege to celebrate our administrative support staff with an inspiring keynote from UMBC’s own Alicia Wilson ’04, vice president for civic engagement and opportunity at Johns Hopkins University. Alicia spoke powerfully to the value of work that gets done, perhaps without ever being noticed—work that supports others, sustains our community, and makes progress possible. She also gave us even more reason to feel proud of UMBC, as she credited this institution and community for so much of her own success.
To our administrative support staff: I hope you felt truly celebrated at the wonderful breakfast co-sponsored by Human Resources and Strategic Talent Management and the Office of Institutional Advancement. I hope you know—every day—that we value you.
Sincerely,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby