A conversation between Dr. David Hoffman, director of the Center for Democracy and Civic Life and Amanda Taylor, assistant vice president of civic and global engagement for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), was featured in the American Democracy Project February 2026 "ADP Connect" newsletter. 

In this conversation, "American Democracy Project's Theory of Change," Drs. Hoffman and Taylor discuss the ideas that shaped "Higher Education's Role in Enacting a Thriving Democracy: Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement Theory of Change," a 2018 document that has been a touchstone for the American Democracy Project. Dr. Hoffman wrote the Theory of Change, which highlights innovations and examples from UMBC, in collaboration with leaders from three national higher education networks. Hoffman and Taylor also discuss the next steps for practitioners working to advance civic learning and democratic engagement at their own institutions.

Dr. Hoffman shared that he is excited to see renewed enthusiasm for the Theory of Change, discussions of which will take place at the American Democracy Project Summit on March 15-16 in Chicago. "The Theory of Change addresses how people can build thriving, inclusive communities even in a time of widespread polarization. It invites all of us in higher education to approach civic engagement as a set of empowering practices useful in everyday settings like schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. I love that lessons we are learning at UMBC have inspired higher education leaders across the U.S."

In February, Matt Hoffman, director, Center for Religion, Spirituality, and Pluralism, was elected to serve as Membership Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Association for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Life in Higher Education (ACSLHE). He was first elected to the ACSLHE Board of Directors in 2024.

"I am happy for Matt to be elected into this position," said Dr. Doug Garrard, interim assistant vice president and dean of students. "It is reflective of the standing Matt has with his colleagues, his knowledge and experience, and his passion for the work that he does, both on our campus and in the broader community."

As someone committed to holistic wellbeing, Hoffman feels called to support and inspire college students—from all traditions and backgrounds—as they navigate faith, the demands of school, discern vocation and explore questions of identity and belonging. Overseeing the Gathering Space—a space utilized by 400+ weekly visitors and 30+ religious and belief orgs—he has prioritized programs that lift up spirituality, invite spaces for education and collaboration, and highlight intersectional identities and interfaith work, centering radical love and belonging and energetic pluralism. 

"ACSLHE has been a home away from home for me during my time at UMBC. It has been a joy to connect with, learn from, and build relationships with colleagues from across the country who share a similar passion for this work," said Hoffman. "It is also critical for me that we lift up and model how to support religious and spiritual diversity at a public institution to other campuses across the country, an area that is so central to UMBC's own value of inclusive excellence." 

ACSLHE supports higher education chaplains and nurtures religious and spiritual life  professionals through scholarship, education, and collaboration. The organization's goal is to be the leading authority on religious and spiritual life in higher education. ACSLHE's diverse membership, numbering almost 450 individuals from a plethora of religious traditions, serve the needs of undergraduates, graduate and professional students, faculty, staff,  administrators, and local communities at diverse institutions. They facilitate multi-faith understanding, dialogue, and engagement within higher education and beyond to address the pressing issues facing our campuses and the broader society.  

Start your morning the UMBC commuter way.

Join us for breakfast with fellow commuters and connect with helpful on-campus resources. There's no better way to kick off your day!

Good Morning Commuters (GMC) takes place every Tuesday from 8:30–11:00 AM *except one a month when Good afternoon Commuters (GAC) is held* and is complimentary with your Commuter Gold Card.

Gold Cards are a one-time purchase per academic year and can be bought at any GMC event (cash only):

• $5 for Commuter Students

• $10 for Residential & Graduate Students

We can't wait to see you there!

https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/ocss/events/149336

Happy Monday! Take a look at the events that will take place at The Mosaic Center this week: 

Monday, 3/9/2026 | Chai Chats x Women's History Month 11-12 PM 

Monday, 3/9/2026 | Unidos x Women's History Month3:30 - 4:30 PM 

Wednesday,  3/11/2026 | Donuts & Dialogue x Women's History Month 12 - 1 PM 

Thursday, 3/12/2026 | SistaCare 3 - 4:30 PM 

We hope to see you at our upcoming events and sponsorships! Questions regarding Mosaic programming can be sent to our email: themosaic@umbc.edu. 

The Mosaic Center and all events are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.

Stop by Coffee Mondays to grab a free cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and take a breather between classes.

Whether you're coming to study, chat, or just refuel, this is your weekly reminder to slow down and connect with fellow grad students.

Where? Office of Graduate Student Life (Commons 308)
When? Every Monday | 10am - 2pm
Come as you are — pajamas, laptops, and coffee orders welcome.

You're invited to our 2nd Annual Procurement Open House.