Ralph Semmel, Ph.D. '92, computer science, has been elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Election to the NAE is among the highest levels of professional recognition conferred to any engineer.

Semmel, director emeritus of the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is recognized for his "leadership in generating innovative and disruptive engineering advancements in defense, national security and space exploration."

Semmel was named a UMBC Outstanding Alumni of the Year in 2011. His career includes influential leadership and technical roles advancing artificial intelligence, database systems, and software engineering.

Members of the NAE Class of 2026 will be formally inducted during the NAE Annual Meeting in the fall.

There's one more week left to submit your application for the Spring Business Plan Competition (the CBIC).  

Last week there were lots of great presentations and brainstorming at the Idea Pitch Day!  If you missed it, but you want to brainstorm--talk to your classmates, professors, and friends about your ideas.  Then, submit your application to the CBIC!

The CBIC is designed for students who are serious about starting a business or social impact venture. Students selected to go to the final competition will be paired with mentors to flesh out their business idea.

This year we will offer 2 tracks: the Technology & Innovation Track and the Social Impact Track

Winners in each track can win up to $4,000 with an opportunity to win an additional $2,000 after a 6-month progress review.

Submit your CBIC application HERE!

Deadline for submissions: March 2nd at 1pm

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/149334

Good morning TGS Community,

The Gathering Space will follow university guidance and close on Monday, February 23rd.

Please check out the Campus Dining Calendar for information about getting food on campus.

Please Note: These hours may change based on weather conditions and UMBC announcements. If hours change, an announcement will be made via MyUMBC and instagram (@umbcbelonging).

L-R: Senator Charles Sydnor, III, M.P.S ’00, Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk, and President Sheares Ashby
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,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby