Dear UMBC Community,

Last week, I had the opportunity to spend time with the Graduate Student Association Executive Council and senators. I left the conversation energized and encouraged. 

What struck me was the breadth of who was in the room—graduate students from every college and numerous disciplines, all engaged in a wide range of scholarly creative work. Despite their different fields, questions, and approaches, they share an inspiring commitment to something larger than themselves. Not only are they advancing their own research, but they are also serving their fellow graduate students, building community, and shaping an environment where everyone can thrive.

During the meeting, I was reminded of my own time as a graduate student, when I experienced the excitement of pursuing new questions, the responsibility of teaching and finding my voice in the classroom, and the privilege of mentoring undergraduate students along the way.

I am so grateful that at UMBC, teaching, research, and service are powerfully connected pursuits—a connection that our graduate students live out every day. 

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby