Dear UMBC Community,
 
One of the privileges of serving as president of UMBC is that the role gives me a view of the entirety of the institution and the chance to hear voices from all across it, through a regular cadence of engagement with shared governance groups on our campus. 
 
My calendar was particularly full of such opportunities last week, as I participated in meetings of the Faculty Senate Executive Committee, Exempt Staff Senate, and University Steering Committee (whose members represent every UMBC governance group), as well as an all-staff meeting hosted by the Exempt and Nonexempt Staff senates. These meetings and others connect me to all parts of the community and allow me to join you in the work of thinking through current issues and planning for a shared vision for the future. 
 
Through the questions, feedback, and ideas I heard from so many of you, last week’s meetings reflected the richness of experiences and viewpoints across our institution and were a terrific reminder of the strength of shared governance at UMBC. 
 
Sincerely,
 
President Valerie Sheares Ashby