Dear UMBC Community,

I am sure that many of you have heard the very sad news of the passing of Eric Coleman Hrabowski, the only son of UMBC’s long-serving, transformative leader, President Emeritus Freeman Hrabowski, and Jackie Hrabowski. I know that this caring community grieves for and with the family, as do I. We send them our love, strength, and support, today and always.

I write to you now to share a personal message of thanks from Jackie and Freeman, which follows below. 

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

 

To our beloved UMBC family,

Jackie and I are overwhelmed by the kindness, comforting words, and acts of compassion from so many of you. They are truly a source of strength and solace in this time of profound loss, and we thank you.

Many have asked how they can honor Eric. We can offer two ways for now: We invite you to share your words and photos on this tribute page. These memories will be lovingly compiled and shared at a celebration of life for Eric being planned for this summer. In lieu of flowers, if you are so inclined, we invite donations in Eric’s honor to the Center for Urban Families, an organization whose mission reflects the values that Eric embodied throughout his life.

As you know, this is an incredibly difficult time for our family, but we are lifted by the love and grace of each other, of God, and of our wondrous and supportive extended family at UMBC, throughout Baltimore, and beyond.

In gratitude,