Applications are now being accepted for the 2021 Center for Social Science Scholarship
Summer Fellowships!

Download the application here.

The purpose of this fellowship is to support significant social science research by tenure-track or tenured faculty in the UMBC College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, resulting in a submittable product by December 2021.

Applications are welcome from any tenured or tenure-track faculty pursuing social science research in any CAHSS department. Fellows will receive a $6,000 award during the summer of 2021. Up to three fellowships will be awarded.

By December 2021, each Fellow agrees to complete a submittable product, which can include an external grant or fellowship proposal, journal article, policy paper, book manuscript, or book chapter; upon completion, Fellows shall provide a copy of this submitted product to the Director of the Center for Social Science Scholarship. Fellows who are preparing an external proposal are expected to work with MIPAR for pre- and post-award assistance.

Interested faculty should complete and submit an application consisting of this downloadable 2-page cover sheet and proposal that adheres to the specified guidelines. The deadline for applications is FEBRUARY 15, 2021.

Applications will be reviewed and ranked by members of the Center for Social Science Scholarship Advisory Board, according to the following criteria:

• Quality of proposed research project;
• Significance of the project in its field;
• Publishing/funding potential of the work;
• Qualification of the faculty member to carry out the work, including the requisite expertise in the topic area and prior research productivity;
• Likelihood that the proposed work can be successfully completed with fellowship support and that it will result in a submittable product within the specified time period;
• Approval and recommendation of faculty member’s department chair.

For more information, interested faculty may contact Christine Mallinson, Director, Center for Social Science Scholarship.

Funds for this fellowship are provided by the Center for Social Science Scholarship, the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CAHSS), and the UMBC Vice President for Research.

Update: Bass, Carpenter and Fritz have recently presented this effective practice at the following conferences:

• 10/27/21 Educause Poster | presentation file (UMBC login req'd)
• 10/12/21 UMBC Faculty Development Center workshop
• 10/1/21 USM "Silver Linings" Faculty Showcase
• 5/18/21 Educause Learning Initiative (ELI) annual meeting
• 2/4/21 International Center for Academic Integrity (ICAI) Mid-Atlantic conference.
• FYI: A very similar approach at the University of Michigan

In a recent Washington Post story about UMBC’s pandemic response to online learning, reporter Nick Anderson mentioned a video prepared by chemistry senior lecturer Tara Carpenter to address a key issue: academic integrity of online exams.

[Carpenter] has tinkered with the pacing and format of quizzes and tests to prevent students from getting an unfair advantage through the Internet. In a video she shared with The Post, Carpenter told students she detected some cheating on the first exam. She warned them to avoid the temptation to use online help forums as an illicit shortcut to the answer. "Posting questions to have someone else answer them is 100 percent cheating," she said. "I'm watching for it, and I will report it."

The video -- a 25-min. Panopto screencast that Carpenter has agreed to answer questions about in a UMBC VoiceThread -- was prepared for her College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences (CNMS) colleagues, as part of the summer Planning Instructional Variety in Online Teaching (PIVOT) program. 

Carpenter developed her approach with chemistry colleague, lecturer Sarah Bass, and leverages three key functions available in all Blackboard Original courses (the bolded first part of each step links to a related Blackboard FAQ and/or instructional technology effective practice):

A large pool or bank of questions that can automatically populate any exam (see up to timecode 4:53 in the screencast, which covers the first three steps in Carpenter’s accompanying spreadsheet). Carpenter and Bass have developed nearly 1,500 questions that can be used in four, 20-25 question “Learning Checkpoint” (LCP) assessments in this semester’s CHEM 101 and CHEM 102 “Introduction to Chemistry” courses that collectively have more than 900 enrolled students. In steps four through six (up to time code 10:12), Carpenter creates four parts to an LCP assessment that are populated with questions of comparable rigor or complexity, which she’s identified and organized in the overall pool or bank.
Create groups (invisible to students), randomly populated for the exam that correspond to an LCP’s four parts, but no one group gets the same sequence of parts (this is step 7 and goes up to time code 11:43). Along with variations of questions from pools, the variation of exam parts they comprise means the chances that any two students get the exact same exam questions or sequence are very low (below is an example of the schema from Carpenter’s screencast):

Adaptive release of content, which is used to require that students “sign” an honor pledge before they can access the rest of the CHEM LCP assessments. This begins steps 8 through 10, which “bring it all together” in terms of how pools, groups and the honor pledge “pre-requisite” students must meet to access and complete an LCP exam. In addition to reminding students of UMBC’s commitment to academic integrity, which the Faculty Development Center has encouraged for years, Carpenter and Bass allow students to use their notes and textbook. But given the complexity, variety and length of the LCP assessments, they both encourage students not to rely on this strategy alone. “They’ll simply run out of time,” says Bass. “Students seem to get that.”

In addition to Chemistry, three Physics instructors, Eric Anderson, Lili Cui and Cody Goolsby-Cole, have already adopted Carpenter’s and Bass’ approach for assessments in their high-enrollment introductory Physics courses this term. “It has been working out well,” says Cui, who, along with her colleagues, had already adjusted her approach last spring, by spreading out fewer, monthly high-stakes exams into more frequent, weekly Friday quizzes that cumulatively have the same weight as prior terms. This also could facilitate a testing effect (link provided by FDC Director Linda Hodges), in which assessments can be opportunities for students to learn in their own right, perhaps especially if they occur sooner and more frequently after study.

“At first glance, Carpenter’s and Bass’ approach may appear to be complex, but it’s actually a pretty straight-forward use of current Blackboard functionality, especially for high-enrollment courses,” says John Fritz, associate vice president of Instructional Technology. “Also, it focuses less on trying to catch students cheating and more on appealing to -- maybe even rewarding -- their own commitment to effective study habits and academic integrity.”

By John Fritz

This story was written by Megan Hanks and first appeared on news.umbc.edu

Last Thursday, UMBC’s Lee Blaney was honored for his impact as a chemistry educator and mentor who closely involves students of all levels in collaborative research. Blaney is an associate professor of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering. He received the 2020 George L. Braude Award from the Maryland section of the American Chemical Society. Blaney was nominated for the award by Mark Marten, chair of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering at UMBC. During the virtual meeting of the society, Blaney presented his research on the occurrence of contaminants of emerging concern in the Chesapeake Bay. 

Blaney said that he was honored and humbled to receive the 2020 George L. Braude Award for his efforts to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research. During his lecture, Blaney emphasized the impact of his own mentors on his mentoring approach, and said that his mentors Arup SenGupta (Lehigh University), Desmond Lawler (University of Texas at Austin), and Lynn Katz (University of Texas at Austin) changed his life. Blaney has incorporated their advice and his own experiences into his mentoring approach at UMBC. “Seeing my students succeed is the most gratifying aspect of being a professor,” he says. 

Even though the event could not be held in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Blaney’s students were able to attend the virtual lecture. Blaney noted that the presence of his students made the celebration even more special. Upon receiving the Braude Award, Blaney emphasized that “this is our award” to his students. 

Mamatha Hopanna Ph.D. ‘22, environmental engineering, who conducts research in Blaney’s lab, the virtual lecture. “I am amazed by how much he cares to support each student’s learning style and needs. I have always felt his sincerity, commitment, and enthusiasm towards his students’ success,” she said. “It is so encouraging to see Dr. Blaney celebrate each of his achievements as our achievements. I, personally, aspire to be a mentor to inspire and motivate other students in the same way as Dr. Blaney has inspired me.” 

Combining research and student success

The Braude Award honors professors from institutions in Maryland who involve students and postdoctoral fellows in exceptional research in particularly notable ways. The award was created in memory of George Braude, who served as chair of the Maryland section of the ACS. 

This latest award follows several other honors which have enabled Blaney to further his innovative research. In 2017, Blaney received an NSF CAREER Award, which focuses on how contaminants of emerging concern impact the environment. Later that year, he was recognized by the Maryland Science Center with the 2017 Outstanding Young Engineering Award.

Blaney is the third UMBC faculty member to receive the Braude Award. In 2006, then-UMBC professor Catherine Fenselau, former chair of chemistry and biochemistry, received the award. Michael Summers, distinguished professor of chemistry and biochemistry and Robert E. Meyerhoff Chair for Excellence in Research and Mentoring, received the award in 2010. Summers is internationally known for his HIV research and his work with UMBC’s Meyerhoff Scholars Program.

Banner image: Lee Blaney. Photo by Marlayna Demond ’11 for UMBC.

excerpt from

American Chemical Society honors UMBC’s Lee Blaney for commitment to mentoring student researchers

Blaney said that he was honored and humbled to receive the 2020 George L. Braude Award for his efforts to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research. During his lecture, Blaney emphasized the impact of his own mentors on his mentoring approach, and said that his mentors Arup SenGupta (Lehigh University), Desmond Lawler (University of Texas at Austin), and Lynn Katz (University of Texas at Austin) changed his life. Blaney has incorporated their advice and his own experiences into his mentoring approach at UMBC. “Seeing my students succeed is the most gratifying aspect of being a professor,” he says. 

Even though the event could not be held in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Blaney’s students were able to attend the virtual lecture. Blaney noted that the presence of his students made the celebration even more special. Upon receiving the Braude Award, Blaney emphasized that “this is our award” to his students. 

Man receiving award from woman. Both are wearing masks.

Lee Blaney, left, receiving his award from Louise Hellwig of Morgan State University. Photo courtesy of Hellwig.

Last Thursday, UMBC’s Lee Blaney was honored for his impact as a chemistry educator and mentor who closely involves students of all levels in collaborative research.

Blaney is an associate professor of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering. He received the 2020 George L. Braude Award from the Maryland section of the American Chemical Society. Blaney was nominated for the award by Mark Marten, chair of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering at UMBC. During the virtual meeting of the society, Blaney presented his research on the occurrence of contaminants of emerging concern in the Chesapeake Bay. 

Past and future mentors

Blaney shared that he was honored and humbled to receive the Braude Award for his efforts to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research. During his lecture, he emphasized the impact of his own mentors on his mentoring approach.

Arup SenGupta (Lehigh University), Desmond Lawler (University of Texas at Austin), and Lynn Katz (University of Texas at Austin) changed his life through their mentorship, Blaney said. He has incorporated their advice and his own experiences into his mentoring approach at UMBC.

“Seeing my students succeed is the most gratifying aspect of being a professor,” he reflects. 

Although the event could not be held in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Blaney’s students were able to attend the virtual lecture. He noted that the presence of his students made the celebration even more special. Upon receiving the Braude Award, Blaney emphasized to his students, “This is our award.”

Mamatha Hopanna Ph.D. ‘22, environmental engineering, conducts research in Blaney’s lab and attended the virtual lecture. “I am amazed by how much he cares to support each student’s learning style and needs, she said. “I have always felt his sincerity, commitment, and enthusiasm towards his students’ success”

She continued, “It is so encouraging to see Dr. Blaney celebrate each of his achievements as our achievements. I, personally, aspire to be a mentor to inspire and motivate other students in the same way as Dr. Blaney has inspired me.” 

Combining research and student success

The Braude Award honors professors from institutions in Maryland who involve students and postdoctoral fellows in exceptional research in particularly notable ways. The award was created in memory of George Braude, who served as chair of the Maryland section of the ACS. 

This latest award follows several other honors which have enabled Blaney to further his innovative research. In 2017, Blaney received an NSF CAREER Award, which focuses on how contaminants of emerging concern impact the environment. Later that year, he was recognized by the Maryland Science Center with the 2017 Outstanding Young Engineer Award.

Blaney is the third UMBC faculty member to receive the Braude Award. In 2006, then-UMBC professor Catherine Fenselau, former chair of chemistry and biochemistry, received the award. Michael Summers, distinguished professor of chemistry and biochemistry and Robert E. Meyerhoff Chair for Excellence in Research and Mentoring, received the award in 2010. Summers is internationally known for his HIV research and his work with UMBC’s Meyerhoff Scholars Program.

Update: James J. Morgan Award

In December 2020, Blaney also received the 2021 James J. Morgan Environmental Science & Technology Early Career Award from the ACS. The award is one of the most prestigious honors in environmental engineering, recognizing early-career scholars who are leading the field.

An editorial announcing Blaney’s award notes, “He is considered a leading researcher with a broad vision, innovative research ideas, and an outstanding commitment to developing a sustainable research program that is diverse and focused on grand challenges.”

Banner image: Lee Blaney. Photo by Marlayna Demond ’11 for UMBC.

OCTOBER 30 12:00-1:00pm 

History in the News 

         Professor Terry Bouton will lead a historical discussion 

                                   on the Electoral College. 

Join Webex meeting

ID: 1209847324
Password: 3Vhckq32



All Students are Welcome.

Sponsored by the History Department

Last Thursday, UMBC’s Lee Blaney was honored for his impact as a chemistry educator and mentor who closely involves students of all levels in collaborative research. Blaney is an associate professor of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering. He received the 2020 George L. Braude Award from the Maryland section of the American Chemical Society. Blaney was nominated for the award by Mark Marten, chair of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering at UMBC. During the virtual meeting of the society, Blaney presented his research on the occurrence of contaminants of emerging concern in the Chesapeake Bay. 

Blaney said that he was honored and humbled to receive the 2020 George L. Braude Award for his efforts to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research. During his lecture, Blaney emphasized the impact of his own mentors on his mentoring approach, and said that his mentors Arup SenGupta (Lehigh University), Desmond Lawler (University of Texas at Austin), and Lynn Katz (University of Texas at Austin) changed his life. Blaney has incorporated their advice and his own experiences into his mentoring approach at UMBC. “Seeing my students succeed is the most gratifying aspect of being a professor,” he says. 

Even though the event could not be held in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Blaney’s students were able to attend the virtual lecture. Blaney noted that the presence of his students made the celebration even more special. Upon receiving the Braude Award, Blaney emphasized that “this is our award” to his students. 

Mamatha Hopanna Ph.D. ‘22, environmental engineering, who conducts research in Blaney’s lab, the virtual lecture. “I am amazed by how much he cares to support each student’s learning style and needs. I have always felt his sincerity, commitment, and enthusiasm towards his students’ success,” she said. “It is so encouraging to see Dr. Blaney celebrate each of his achievements as our achievements. I, personally, aspire to be a mentor to inspire and motivate other students in the same way as Dr. Blaney has inspired me.” 

Combining research and student success

The Braude Award honors professors from institutions in Maryland who involve students and postdoctoral fellows in exceptional research in particularly notable ways. The award was created in memory of George Braude, who served as chair of the Maryland section of the ACS. 

This latest award follows several other honors which have enabled Blaney to further his innovative research. In 2017, Blaney received an NSF CAREER Award, which focuses on how contaminants of emerging concern impact the environment. Later that year, he was recognized by the Maryland Science Center with the 2017 Outstanding Young Engineering Award.

Blaney is the third UMBC faculty member to receive the Braude Award. In 2006, then-UMBC professor Catherine Fenselau, former chair of chemistry and biochemistry, received the award. Michael Summers, distinguished professor of chemistry and biochemistry and Robert E. Meyerhoff Chair for Excellence in Research and Mentoring, received the award in 2010. Summers is internationally known for his HIV research and his work with UMBC’s Meyerhoff Scholars Program.

Banner image: Lee Blaney. Photo by Marlayna Demond ’11 for UMBC.