Good afternoon,

I'm looking for two packages that were delivered by Amazon in June and August for our PO J00066201, MBM 80 Interview Coaching Cards. We requested a replacement item since we couldn't find our order that was delivered the first time. We contacted Amazon, and they provided two courier tracking codes: lT005080460GB and LT0050805'92GB.

The packages are addressed to Ella Sagan, 900 Walker Ave, Ste 101.

Please email me if you find them at esagan@umbc.edu, and I will pick them up. 

Thank you in advance,

Ella

All,

The Department of informational technology is currently upgrading the wireless connectivity in rooms 206, 308 and 408. Room 308 has been completed and rooms 206 and 408 should be done tomorrow. Once the upgrade is complete, users will be able to connect directly using either MiraCast or ApplePlay. Mersive is no longer supported by the University. Wired connections are still supported in all classrooms and conference rooms. 

Please let me know if you run into problems.

Thank you!

The Travel Office has implemented a new procedure for handling minor non-reimbursable travel expenses identified during the review of Expense Reports in SAP Concur. 

What is changing?

Effective immediately, the Travel Office is authorized to deduct up to $50.00 in clearly identifiable non-reimbursable expenses from an Expense Report rather than returning the entire report to the traveler for correction. 

Why is UMBC Travel making this change?

Historically, even a small non-reimbursable expense required an entire Expense Report to be returned to the traveler, creating additional work and causing reimbursement delay.

Travelers will receive notification when an adjustment is made and the adjustment reason.

If a traveler believes a deduction was made in error or has additional documentation supporting reimbursement, they may request a review by replying to the notification email. If the expense is determined to be allowable, the traveler may submit a supplemental Expense Report for the deducted amount.

Additional Information

The complete Standard Operating Procedure is available here: (View Procedure Details)

For Questions: contact Travel Office Travel@UMBC.edu

Gathering on the Green is back! Join the UMBC community and local neighbors for an evening of connection, fun, and celebration in a welcoming and lively outdoor setting. Enjoy a free cookout, live music, games, and activities for all ages.

Whether you’re a UMBC student, a longtime local, or new to the area, this is the perfect opportunity to meet new people, build connections, and celebrate the spirit of our community. Hosted by UMBC and local community leaders - everyone is welcome! Bring a friend, bring your family, and come be part of this vibrant neighborhood tradition.

Saturday, September 12 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM 

Green space on the corner of Linden Avenue & Shelbourne Road.

All,

I had Hydro replace the resin tanks for the RO system yesterday. These tanks are located prior to the reverse osmosis equipment and not a part of the recirculating system. Therefore, I have dumped just under 90% of the storage RO water while the system was both producing and recirculating RO. 

Any residual issues we saw with pH should be taken care of with the turnover of the resovoir of product. 

Thank you for your patience. 

August is Psoriasis Action Month

Psoriasis Action Month is observed each year in August to raise awareness about psoriatic disease, including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, and encourage education, support, and advocacy for those affected. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation and can impact the skin, joints, and overall quality of life. More than 8 million people in the United States live with psoriasis, and nearly one-third may develop psoriatic arthritis.

This year’s Psoriasis Action Month focuses on sharing trusted information, uplifting patient stories, and connecting individuals with resources to better understand and manage psoriatic disease. Raising awareness helps reduce stigma, promote early care, and ensure those affected have access to the support they need.

You can take action by:
• Learning the facts about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
• Sharing accurate information to increase awareness and understanding
• Supporting individuals living with psoriatic disease
• Advocating for research, improved care, and access to resources

Key facts to know include: psoriasis is more than a skin condition, psoriatic disease can affect joints and daily life, and early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms. Through continued research, education, and advocacy, we can work toward better care and a future without psoriatic disease.

Together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, support the psoriatic disease community, and help advance efforts toward a cure.

#PsoriasisActionMonth #PsoriasisAwareness #PsoriaticArthritis #HealthAwareness #PatientAdvocacy #ChronicIllnessAwareness #DisabilityAwareness #UMBC

August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month

SMA Awareness Month is observed each year in August to raise awareness about spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord and impacts the muscles used for activities such as breathing, eating, crawling, and walking. SMA is caused by a deficiency of a motor neuron protein called SMN, as well as other rare forms of SMA that result from chromosome mutations. Through increased awareness, advocacy, and support, communities can help improve the lives of individuals and families impacted by SMA.

This year’s SMA Awareness Month focuses on shining a brighter spotlight on the needs, experiences, hopes, and voices of the SMA community. While awareness efforts continue year-round, August provides an opportunity to foster conversations, promote understanding, and encourage action through education, advocacy, fundraising, and community support. Misinformation, limited awareness, and barriers to resources can impact the lives of those living with SMA, making continued education and outreach essential.

You can take action by:
• Learning about SMA and sharing accurate information with others
• Raising awareness by sharing SMA stories, resources, and educational materials
• Advocating for policies and programs that support individuals and families impacted by SMA
• Participating in SMA Awareness Month events, fundraisers, or community activities
• Supporting organizations that fund research, care programs, and resources for the SMA community

Key facts to know include: SMA affects the motor neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement, symptoms and progression can vary widely among individuals, and ongoing research has led to advancements in treatments and support options for people living with SMA. Community advocacy has also played an important role in expanding newborn screening, improving access to care, and advancing research efforts. With continued awareness, education, and support, we can help create a future where individuals with SMA have greater opportunities, resources, and quality of life.

Together, we can amplify SMA voices, celebrate the strength and resilience of the SMA community, promote understanding, support research and care initiatives, and work toward a future where everyone impacted by SMA has the support they need to thrive.

#SMAAwarenessMonth #SpinalMuscularAtrophy #CureSMA #DisabilityAwareness #RareDiseaseAwareness #Accessibility #HealthAwareness #RareDiseaseCommunity #UMBC

August 21- World Senior Citizens’ Day

World Senior Citizens’ Day is observed each year on August 21 to recognize the contributions of older adults and raise awareness about issues affecting seniors, including health, elder care, and social inclusion. The day encourages appreciation, respect, and support for the aging population.

You can take action by:
• Learning more about the experiences and needs of older adults
• Showing appreciation for the contributions of seniors in our communities
• Supporting efforts that promote healthy aging, care, and inclusion

At UMBC, the Erickson School of Aging Studies prepares future leaders to improve the lives of older adults and caregivers through interdisciplinary education, research, and hands-on experiences. Students learn about aging, public policy, management, and innovative solutions that support aging communities.

Together, we can celebrate older adults, promote awareness of aging issues, and continue building communities where seniors are valued, respected, and supported.

#WorldSeniorCitizensDay #SeniorCitizensDay #HealthyAging #AgingAwareness #UMBC #EricksonSchool #CommunitySupport

Dear UMBC Faculty and Staff,

As students prepare to return to campus, this edition of The UMBC Connection highlights ways faculty and staff can help create a welcoming and supportive start to the academic year.

You’ll find key dates for the weeks ahead, opportunities to participate in Welcome, Retrievers, resources for connecting students with support, and stories celebrating student achievement across research, global engagement, career-connected learning, and athletics. With this edition, The UMBC Connection returns to its regular twice-monthly schedule, with editions published twice per month. 

Opportunities & Events

Opportunities to attend, participate in, or engage with across the UMBC community.

• Key Dates as Students Return to Campus
  As UMBC prepares to welcome students back, faculty and staff are encouraged to keep the following dates in mind:

  • August 12: ESS/NESS Annual Staff Cookout

  • August 14: Deadline to sign up for Welcome, Retrievers support opportunities

  • August 18: Fall Opening Meeting, with the program livestreamed from noon–1 p.m.

  • August 19: International Student Welcome and Orientation

  • August 20: Residential move-in begins

  • August 21: New student move-in and Retriever Fest

  • August 22: Commuter Welcome Day

  • August 23: Convocation, 3–4 p.m. in the Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena

  • August 24: First day of fall classes

• Be Part of Welcome, Retrievers
  Faculty and staff are invited to support Welcome, Retrievers through event support roles connected to Convocation, residential move-in, new student programs, and other activities before the semester begins. These events help students navigate campus, build connections, and feel a sense of belonging from the moment they arrive. Additional faculty and staff support is especially needed for Convocation on Sunday, August 23. Explore available opportunities and sign up by August 14.

• Register for the ESS/NESS Annual Staff Cookout
  All UMBC staff members are invited to the annual ESS/NESS Staff Cookout on Wednesday, August 12, from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. on Main Street in The Commons. Classic barbecue food and vegetarian options will be available. Please RSVP to help with food planning. Opportunities to help with the event are also available.

• Watch the Fall Opening Meeting Live
  Join the UMBC community online for the Fall Opening Meeting on Tuesday, August 18. The program will be livestreamed from noon–1 p.m. from the Retriever Activities Center for colleagues who are unable to attend in person. Visit the livestream page to set a reminder.

Campus Updates

Important updates, planning efforts, operational information, and community news affecting UMBC.

• Federal Updates Affecting International Students, Travel, and Research
  UMBC’s Federal Orders and Actions Core Team has shared several important updates related to immigration, travel, visa processing, and federal research policy. Of particular note as the semester approaches, some admitted international students are experiencing visa processing delays and may be unable to arrive before the first day of classes. Faculty and staff are encouraged to be understanding of students navigating these challenges. The update also includes information about new immigration requirements for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors, recent ICE activity at U.S. airports, travel restrictions, and potential changes affecting federal research funding.

• Know Where to Connect Students for Care and Support
  Faculty and staff can help students access support by becoming familiar with UMBC’s resources for health and well-being, basic needs, personal concerns, and belonging and engagement. If you are concerned about a student’s well-being, you may also consult with or submit a referral to Retriever CARE.

• New M.S. in Artificial Intelligence Launches This Fall
  UMBC is launching a new Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence program, with its first cohort beginning classes this fall. The program provides a focused pathway into AI research, development, and deployment and prepares students to apply core AI principles across a wide range of fields and industries.

University Milestones

Major achievements, recognitions, funding, and institutional accomplishments across UMBC.

• UMBC Student Fulbright Recipients Take Their Research Global
  UMBC’s 2026–27 Fulbright recipients are taking community-driven research from Baltimore to the Dominican Republic, India, and Mexico. They join a distinguished group of Fulbright alumni whose achievements have helped make UMBC a three-time Fulbright Top Producing Institution.

• Four Retrievers Selected for Key Bridge Rebuilding Internship
  Four UMBC students earned four of the ten positions in this summer’s Key Bridge Internship Program, a partnership between the Maryland Transportation Authority and the Maryland Higher Education Commission. The students are gaining hands-on experience in project management, environmental analysis, construction oversight, community outreach, and other areas connected to the rebuilding effort.

• UMBC Researcher Receives NIAID Grant to Advance HIV Prevention
  Herana Kamal Seneviratne, assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry, has received an approximately $440,000, two-year award from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to study how key HIV-prevention drugs work inside the body. Graduate researchers will take leading roles in the project, with additional opportunities for undergraduate students.

More from Across UMBC

Additional updates, resources, and community opportunities from across the university.

• Fall Athletics Seasons Get Underway
  Support UMBC’s student-athletes as fall competition begins. Women’s soccer opens its regular season at home on August 13, followed by the men’s soccer home opener on August 20. The defending America East champion volleyball team begins competition on August 29. Season packages and individual game tickets are now available.

• UMBC Magazine Now Available Across Campus
  The latest issue of UMBC Magazine is now available at select campus locations, including The Commons, the Administration Building, and the Performing Arts and Humanities Building. As UMBC moves away from mailing individual copies to faculty and staff, community members can pick up a print issue on campus or explore the expanded digital magazine, which now includes additional stories, web-only features, and multimedia content. If you notice a magazine stand running low, please contact magazine@umbc.edu.

Help Shape The UMBC Connection

As this effort continues to take shape, your feedback will help guide how we strengthen internal communications across the university. We welcome your input and invite you to share your feedback on The UMBC Connection.

If you would prefer, you are also welcome to reach out directly to Jessica McGroarty, Director of Internal Communications, at jmcgro@umbc.edu.

University Communications and Marketing

The week before the semester starts can feel like a sprint: A full inbox, a syllabus that still needs one more edit, and a course shell that isn’t quite ready for students yet. Before the scramble sets in, work through this updated baker’s dozen checklist to get your Blackboard course ready to go.

1. Before you get started:

• Check out the latest news to learn what’s new for your courses. Our Blackboard site receives updates and enhancements every month.

• Depending on your course size, enrollments, and needs, you might want to merge your Blackboard enrollments: Manage content, communication, and grades for multiple sections in the convenience of one course site.

2. Copy your course content from a previous semester.

Bypass the long wait and digital file transfers required for export and import. Use course copy -- it’s faster and more convenient since import is only available via RT ticket.

• TIP: Prep your courses ahead of the new semester for a stress-free start. Request a development course shell for ongoing content development and maintenance. 

3. Refresh course materials

Next, add or update content in Blackboard, to include syllabus & faculty information; course materials and assignments; and, if you use them, publisher integrations or other resources.

• Don't forget to check course links for broken or missing content. If you use a lot of external links and third-party tools, check the validity of those resources. 

• Verify permissions for Google, Box, and YuJa to make sure your students can view these essential media and files.

4. Update library reserves.

Digital course reserves are available through the AOK Library, making it easy for you to request from your desktop and for students to access, read, view, or listen from the convenience of their own devices. Course reserves are synchronized through your Blackboard courses. 

• TIP: Submit reserve requests early -- processing takes time, especially for materials requiring copyright clearance, digitization, or accessibility improvements.

5. Upload multimedia to YuJa and large files to UMBC Box or Google Drive.

Please remember that Blackboard is not a streaming service. 

• When you update your course content with new resources, be sure to place multimedia (video, audio) in YuJa and other large files to cloud storage. 

6. Update due dates, release conditions, support staff, etc.

Use the Batch Edit to modify nearly everything with a date in your course whether availability or release conditions. 

• You should also review and update settings for:

  • Assessment feedback settings for tests and assignments

  • Imported announcements (if you plan to reuse)

If you have a TA or grader in your course, you can add them now. There is no self-enroll step, so it’s important that you do this or they won’t have access to your course.

7. Create a central Start Here area for your students so they know how to get started.

Include a welcome video. Let students know what to do first before classes start and where to find important content. 

• Use YuJa to invite students to explore the course with a course tour and orientation. Be sure to caption your videos for accessibility.

8. Check your course content for accessibility.

Use your course’s Ally accessibility report to gauge the accessibility of course content and prioritize improvements.

• Set alternative text & descriptions for images.

• Structure Word/PowerPoint files with headings & styles rather than font changes.

• Avoid PDFs consisting only of scanned images.

• Caption videos or provide transcripts. 

Ally automatically creates alternative versions of your files for students including Electronic Braille and mobile-friendly HTML.

9. Set up your virtual gradebook.

Students benefit from knowing how they’re doing in your course throughout the semester. 

• The Overall Grade can be calculated as weighted, points, or advanced calculation using a formula.

• Review your grade posting policy so grades release when you’re ready to publish.

• Update the grade schema to customize how scores map to letter grades.

10. Prepare virtual meeting places.

Create spaces to meet with students virtually. 

• Use Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or Webex for lectures, office hours, drop-in support, student study groups, and more.

11. Set the tone for your course with a welcome message.

No matter what format you teach, create an online introduction to create a sense of connection and build community in your course. Send an opening email or post an announcement to your course to greet your students. 

• TIP: You can use YuJa to post the same video across all of your courses, or create a short, unique video within each Blackboard course using a video announcement.

12. Configure your personal notifications.

Choose which notifications you receive about activity in your courses. 

• Notifications can appear in the Activity Stream or via email digest for new messages, gradable items, discussion posts, or student performance alerts.

13. Set your course availability.

Students cannot access your course until you make it available. 

• TIP: If you'd like to open your course earlier than 3 weeks before the semester starts, you might need to request support to make sure students see your course when you want them to have early access.

Do you have a tip to share with other faculty? Please comment in this post and let us know!

Would you like to learn more about Blackboard? Join one of our training sessions or review the Blackboard FAQs. 

Connect with Instructional Technology

As always, if you have any questions about teaching, learning, and technology at UMBC, please consider the following options:

• Check our extensive FAQ collection

  • What's new in Ultra? |Known Issues

• Open a ticket via RT

• Follow the Instructional Technology & DoIT myUMBC groups

• Request a consult with instructional technology staff

CSEE Assistant Professor Clement Fung is teaching a new special topics class (CMSC 491/691) this fall on  Applied AI for Cybersecurity. It will cover the intersection of AI with a broad selection of cybersecurity topics, such as network security, systems security, usable security, and more. The class is open to both undergraduate and graduate students and will meet on Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30-10:45 in Engineering 231.

• Position Title: Assistant Office Administrator (Part-Time – 2 Openings)
  
  Location: In-Person | bwtech@UMBC North Campus (Catonsville, MD)
  
  Hours: Part-Time, approximately 12–18 hours per week

• Role Overview: 
  
  Our Residential Service Agency is hiring two part-time Assistant Office Administrators to work in-person at our bwtech North office in Catonsville. In this role, you will serve as a primary contact for our clients, families, and caregiving staff. You will handle daily front-office administrative tasks, coordinate caregiver schedules, and help roll out digital tools that support our care aides in the field.
  
  Key Responsibilities:
  
  Serve as the primary in-person contact at our bwtech North office for phone calls, client inquiries, and staff needs.
  
  Manage daily scheduling and dispatch operations to ensure reliable care coverage across all clients.
  
  Help introduce, troubleshoot, and support mobile apps and software used by field care aides.
  
  Maintain accurate, confidential client files and staff documentation.
  
  Work with agency leadership to improve office workflows and daily administrative procedures.
  
  Qualifications:
  
  Caregiving Experience (Preferred): Background as a CNA, GNA, CMT, or Home Health Aide is highly valued.
  
  Availability: Able to work in-person at our bwtech North office for 12–18 hours per week.
  
  Communication: Strong customer service, phone etiquette, and problem-solving skills.
  
  Tech Comfort: Comfortable using computers, scheduling software, and mobile applications, with the ability to guide caregivers through basic tech tools.

• How to Apply: Email your resume and cover letter to office@comforthomecarellc.com with the subject line RSA Applicant.