Have a story to share? An achievement you are proud of? Or a way you have made a positive impact this month. This is your chance to be recognized in the Grad Spotlight of the Month by the Graduate Student Association (GSA). We want to celebrate YOU!!

Eligibility:

• Self-nominations only

• Separate awards and entries for Master's and PhD students

• $50 prize for each winner

• Winners are automatically entered for the Grad Student of the Year Award, presented at GSA Awards Night

Timeline:

• Nominations close: 25th of every month

• Results announced: 5th of every month

• Unselected entries will automatically be considered for the next month

Nominate yourself: Fill this Form

Questions? Email: gsachiefstaff@umbc.edu

From September 15 to October 15, the Mosaic Center honors the resilience, cultural richness, and deep-rooted contributions of the Hispanic and Latine/x community at UMBC. This month, we invite the campus to engage in storytelling, arts-based creation, celebration, and dance as we recognize the vibrant presence that continues to shape our university.

Why Mid-September to Mid-October? 

National Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, marking the anniversaries of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico (September 16), Chile (September 18), and Belize (September 21) follow closely behind. This important timeframe of independence also encompasses observances like October 12, recognized in various ways across Latin America, such as the "Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity" in Argentina, to honor Indigenous histories and ongoing journeys toward justice.

The Hispanic and Latine/x community has profoundly influenced our country through their deep-rooted commitments to family, faith, hard work, and service. We are all enriched by their shared culture through centuries-old traditions and the vibrant, multiethnic, multicultural customs they carry, which continue to evolve. We invite all to engage in learning and uplift the contributions, experiences, and life-giving work of all Hispanic and Latine community members during this heritage month and throughout the year.

To learn more about this heritage month, check out this post here. 

Navigating Terminology: Hispanic vs. Latine

• Hispanic: Generally refers to people from Spanish-speaking countries, including Spain.

• Latino / Latina / Latine: Refers to people with cultural or ancestral ties to Latin America and the Caribbean, regardless of language (typically excluding Spain).

The Mosaic Center firmly affirms individual and community-led identification. Individuals may identify with one, both, or neither of these terms. The naming of our events and initiatives is always done in relationship with students and community members.

Community, Joy, and Resistance 

At a time when many of our communities, especially our Hispanic & Latine community, continue to face threats, violence, erasure, and growing experiences of unsafety, community, love, and expression are more important than ever. Celebrating and engaging in community together is a powerful form of resistance, healing, and joy. It is through shared spaces that we find strength, validation, and the opportunity to uplift one another. 

We encourage all members of the UMBC community to come together, whether by attending events, sharing stories, or supporting identity-based spaces. If you are looking for community, you are not alone. The Mosaic Center/Student Belonging and campus groups offer intentional spaces for belonging, cultural heritage events, and opportunities for dialogue and celebration throughout the year. 

Campus Organizations/Groups:

• Hispanic and Latino Student Union (HLSU) (@umbc_hlsu)
• Latinx and Hispanic Graduate Student Association (LHGSA) (@umbc_lhgsa)
• Society of Advancing Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) (@umbcsacnas)
• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) (@shpeumbc)
• Herencia UMBC (@herencia_umbc)
• Lambda Theta Alpha Sorority Inc. (LTA) (@lta_betakappa)
• Indigenous Peoples Union (IPU) (@umbc.ipu)
• Latine/x/Hispanic Faculty Association (LHFA) 

Upcoming Events: 

• Unidos: Kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month! 

Tuesday, September 15 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Commons 2B23 The Mosaic

Come and learn the history of latine activism through timelines and dialogue. Honor those who came before us who guaranteed protections and rights for immigrants and workers

• The Anatomy of Professionalism: What it looks like? Meeting expectations

Wednesday, September 16 | 6 PM - 7 PM | Virtual

Navigating your first job or internship can be complex. Join us for a 4-part interactive discussion series designed to help you successfully start your professional journey.

Hear directly from UMBC alumni with experience in Industry as they share actionable insights on the key power skills you need to stand out, make a great impression, and build a lasting professional reputation. 

•  Queerios: Machismo, Jesucristo, y Tradición

Wednesday, September 23 | 3 PM - 4:30 PM | UC 310

Queerios is a large group dialogue-based program on querying and queering different topics relevant to current events in and around our community. We will gather and converse while enjoying a cereal bar and other treats. Come join us for great conversation, new connections, and of course…cereal! 

• Queering Latinidad: The Poetics of Lineage, Inheritance, & Belonging with Xochi Cartland

Wednesday, September 23 | 5 PM - 6:30 PM | AOK Library Gallery 

“If we can't imagine a free, liberated world in language, how can we build one?” - George Abraham

It’s been a hard year. Between ICE terrorizing our neighborhoods and federal and state legislators stripping LGBTQ+ rights, belonging in this country is feeling more impossible than we can remember. And yet, there’s promise in impossibility. How can we, as poets, cuentistas, and artists, build belonging on and off the page?

In this 90-minute workshop, we will read poems by Natalie Diaz, Julian Randall, Eduardo Corral, and Denice Frohman. Writing prompts inspired by their work will invite us to reflect on the spaces that embrace us — and the ones that refuse us — and what they teach us about ourselves, the world, and what comes next.

• BACHATA & SALSA NIGHT

Friday, September 25 | 5:30 PM - 8 PM | UC Ballroom

Join us for our Annual Bachata / Salsa Night! In 2026, we will have an active bachata dance lesson where you can practice dancing with both an instructor and peers. Bring your friends and be ready for a night of rhythm and fun! A valid UMBC ID is required. 

No prior dance experience required! 

• Hear Our Stories: Celebrating Hispanic & Latine/x Heritage Month 

Monday, September 28 | 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM | The Commons Mainstreet (in front of the Bookstore)

Join The Mosaic Center & the Center for Religion, Spirituality, & Pluralism as we read and highlight Hispanic & Latine stories through children’s literature. This event is in celebration of Hispanic & Latine/x Heritage Month! Children's literature will be on display centering the stories and experiences of the Hispanic & Latine/x community.

• Latinx Film Festival 

 In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the MLLI department, UMBC Library, Albin O. Kuhn and Office of Community and Culture present, The Latinx Film Festival.

Please see the original post for multiple dates and films. 

• Unidos: Horchata Edition!

Tuesday, October 6 | 5 PM - 6 PM | Commons 2B23 The Mosaic

For this Unidos, stop by and have a cup of horchata, meet other community members, and engage in cultural storytelling. 

• Latine/x / Hispanic Faculty Staff Association Meet & Greet

Thursday, October 15 | 12 PM - 1:30 PM | Commons Lower Flat Tuesdays

Come and meet Latinx and Hispanic faculty, students, and staff on campus to celebrate Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month. Learn about student orgs, services, and academic opportunities. Food, music, crafts, and more. ¡Te esperamos!

For more information about upcoming events, or events by our wonderful campus partners, check out the Student Belonging Instagram (@umbcbelonging) and the Mosaic myUMBC page. 

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.

Good afternoon,

We will be in Public Policy 208 tonight rather than Harbor MPR. Attendance to this meeting is MANDATORY to be considered for membership.

Thanks,

NSBWM E-Board

Board of Regents Faculty Awards recognize distinguished performance by faculty within the past three years (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026), in the categories of: 

• Teaching
• Scholarship or Research
• Creative Activity
• Public Service
• Mentoring 

The Honors and Awards Committee of the Faculty Senate will select up to three individuals in each category for nomination to the Board of Regents.

To initiate nomination of yourself or a faculty colleague for one of these awards, prepare a packet of no more than five pages including a summary resume, a one-page essay by the nominee describing his or her contribution to excellence, a letter of recommendation from the department chair or dean, and a brief documentation of exemplary achievement.

Submit the initial nomination packet via Box, at https://umbc.app.box.com/f/085982f5b7a645869030827f6e337624, by Monday, September 28, 2026.  Additional detailed information concerning eligibility, criteria, and documentation for these awards can be found on the Board of Regents Faculty Awards website and the UMBC Faculty Affairs Website.

Board of Regents Faculty Awards website:

https://www.usmd.edu/usm/academicaffairs/regents-faculty-awards  

UMBC Faculty Affairs Website:

https://facultyaffairs.umbc.edu/board-of-regents-faculty-awards/

Please direct any questions to Brynn Krasney at bkrasney@umbc.edu.

The Latinx/Hispanic Graduate Student Association (LHGSA) is kicking off the semester with a social to welcome both new and returning Latinx/Hispanic graduate students to campus!

Ven a conocer a nuestra comunidad y comienza el semestre con snacks, juegos у buena compañía.

• Thursday, September 17th • 5-6 PM
• Commons 336

See flyer below! 

Tuesdays from 1-2:30 pm
Fridays from 10-11:30am
Public Policy Building, Room 451

Join us throughout the semester for a faculty writing group. Faculty from all disciplines are welcome! Our theme is collaboration and innovation, emphasizing our shared commitment to fostering a community of friendship, the pursuit of new research agendas, and ways to move forward our important work. 

At the start of each writing session we will share our session goals, provide updates on work in progress, and then write in silence for the remainder of our time. Upon completion of the session we will share our successes, challenges, and detours from the session, and then set our agenda for the upcoming week.

Questions?  Please contact Kerri Evans, Associate Professor, Department of Social Work (kerrieva@umbc.edu)

The 2026 UMBC Fall Career & Internship Fair will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM at the Retriever Activities Center (RAC). The Administration Garage will play host to representatives from the different companies and will have limited availability to all others.

 
We expect more vehicles than normal in the pay to park lots around campus. Please note, visitors not utilizing the pay to park lots will be required to park at the Southwest Park and Ride and shuttle onto campus. This event should not affect parking availability in lots designated as permit only.

 
Questions about Career and Internship Fair parking? Please email parking@umbc.edu.

Name: Makayla Washington

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Semester of Work Experience: Summer 2026

UMBC Major or Program: Media and Communications & English (Literature and Culture Track)

Current Class Level: Junior

I recently obtained experience in a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Library of Congress

Location of the Organization (City, State): Washington D.C.

Title of position: Visitor Engagement Intern

Tell us about your experience, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

As a summer intern with the Visitor Engagement Office at the Library of Congress, I've had the opportunity to experience the Library from a perspective that most visitors never see. My days are centered on helping people make the most of their visit, whether that means welcoming guests through ticketing, assisting with wayfinding, answering questions, facilitating the Main Reading Room Experience, or supporting programming in the SOURCE, the Library's children's research space. Along the way, I've developed a deeper understanding of the Thomas Jefferson Building, its history, and many of the Library's most significant collections, allowing me to better connect visitors with resources that align with their interests and inspire further exploration.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I first came across the internship on Handshake and applied in late January, extremely interested in the opportunity but not entirely expecting where it would lead. After being invited to interview in February, I completed a virtual interview in early March before moving through the department recommendation and reference review. After successfully completing a background investigation, I was extended a final offer to join the Library of Congress as an official summer intern.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

Without question, the people have been my favorite part of working at the Library of Congress. The Visitor Engagement Office is one of the most collaborative environments I've experienced, and it's impossible to do this work without appreciating how many people contribute to creating a positive visitor experience. Beyond my own colleagues, I've gotten to know staff across the Library, VEO volunteers, and our security team, all of whom play an important role in keeping the Library running each day. Over the past eight weeks, the relationships that I've made have become the most meaningful part of my internship. I've met people who have generously shared their knowledge, encouraged my growth, and made me feel like a valued member of the team rather than just an intern.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

Helping facilitate the Main Reading Room Experience has been one of the most rewarding parts of my internship. When I first started, I was nervous about working inside the Reading Room because I wanted to make sure I could answer visitors' questions confidently. Over time, though, those conversations became my favorite part of the job. I love watching people step into the room for the first time, take in its beauty, and then begin asking questions about the Library, its collections, or how they can conduct research there. In those moments, I have the opportunity to be a welcoming first point of contact and help visitors discover how the Library can support their interests by connecting them with the right resources, departments, or collections. Some of my favorite moments have come from talking with younger visitors whose excitement at experiencing the Main Reading Room is contagious. Being able to answer their questions, encourage their curiosity, and know that I may have helped spark a lifelong appreciation for libraries, research, and public service is the impact I'm most proud of.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

Don't count yourself out before you've given yourself the chance to be considered. I almost didn't apply because I convinced myself I wasn't qualified enough, but taking that chance led to one of the coolest experiences of my college career. I'd also encourage future interns not to let the word "intern" limit how they see themselves. At times it can be a tricky mindset but you're there because someone believed you could contribute, so don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, and build relationships with the people around you. The experience you gain is valuable, but it's often the people you meet and the connections you make that leave the biggest impact.

Have you ever considered a career in elder law, or wondered how attorneys use law, policy, and advocacy to support older adults and their families?

Join the Erickson School of Aging Studies and UMBC Pre-Law Advising for Careers in Elder Law: Where Law Meets Aging, a virtual career webinar featuring practicing attorneys working in different areas of elder law.

Students will hear directly from professionals about what their work actually looks like, the paths that brought them into the field, and the skills and experiences that can help students prepare for careers at the intersection of law and aging.

You’ll also learn how you can begin building that foundation right here at UMBC.

Through the Erickson School of Aging Studies, students can develop interdisciplinary expertise in aging, policy, health, services, and issues affecting older adults, while UMBC Pre-Law Advising can help students explore legal careers and prepare for the path to law school. The Erickson School of Aging Studies offers both graduate and undergraduate programs.

WHEN: Tuesday, October 20 | 5:30–6:30 p.m. | Webex

The webinar is open to UMBC students of all majors and class years.

Registration is required. Register using your official UMBC email address to receive the webinar information!

Registration link

Questions? Contact Molly Timko, Pre-Law Advisor at mtimko@umbc.edu or Rumsha Khan, Erickson School of Aging Studies, Student Pathways & Engagement Coordinator at rumshak1@umbc.edu.

In the coming weeks, students will have two opportunities to learn about the Public Health intership process and gain insight into grad school applications, with sessions led by UMBC faculty.

On Wednesday, September 16th (two days from now), Katie Birger will be hosting an internship information session in Public Policy 204 from 12-12:45 pm. This session will explain student requirements and important materials to prepare ahead of the Spring and Summer 2027 internship application season.

Find the link to her post here 

On Wednesday, September 23, Dr. Jun Chu will represent the Public Health department in a graduate forum led by the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Health. This session will also take place from 12-12:45 PM in Public Policy 204. In this session, students have the opportunity to hear directly from faculty members who have completed the grad school process themselves. Come learn from their firsthand experiences!

Find the link to their post here

This Wednesday. Next Wednesday. Same room. Same time. 

We hope to see you there! Bring a friend.