All posts by: UMBC News Staff

Next Year’s Budget and Long-Term Budget Planning Efforts ↗

Dear Faculty and Staff,

I am writing to share additional information on the university’s budget outlook for the coming fiscal year, as well as our long-term work to enhance our budget-planning capabilities. 

As we shared with you last month, the State of Maryland has set an operating budget of $70.8 billion for Fiscal Year 2027. Following significant reductions in the state’s allocation to the University System of Maryland in FY26, the new budget does not contain any direct cuts to our institution and provides a modest increase of $7 million, or 0.3 percent, to the system overall. The state’s allocation to UMBC for FY27 will be approximately $210 million. 

I invite you to learn more about the higher education-related outcomes from this year’s legislative session by reading the USM’s 2026 Legislative Session Report, which provides detailed information on budget and policy actions taken this year. We are grateful for the state’s continued support of higher education, keeping the USM’s operating budget whole even as the state grappled with a $1.5 billion shortfall. 

Meanwhile, we are engaged at UMBC in important work to better understand how resources are allocated and managed across the university and to develop a clear, straightforward, and more sustainable budget-planning model for the years ahead. That work involves thorough analysis of expenditures, operations, staffing, and long-term financial projections across academic and administrative units. 

In light of the state’s allocation and this ongoing long-term work, we will maintain a flat operating budget for FY27. We believe this is the most thoughtful and responsible approach as we gather more complete information, strengthen our financial planning processes, and develop the tools and projections necessary to support future decisions.

The state’s budget provides $35.7 million toward a 1.5 percent cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) for state-funded employees across all USM institutions, effective July 1. That allocation will not cover the full cost of the increase for UMBC employees; we will absorb the remaining cost centrally to be able to provide the 1.5 percent COLA to all employees. We recognize that such support for faculty and staff is critical in the current challenging economic environment. 

Indeed, these continue to be challenging times for many individuals, families, and for the sector of higher education. Many colleges and universities, including UMBC, are navigating significant financial pressures, including challenges related to evolving federal priorities and research funding; rising operational costs, including utilities and benefits; enrollment pressures; and broader economic uncertainty.

All of this underscores the need to improve our budget planning and to ensure that our resources align with our strategic priorities. Over the past year, we have taken a number of strategic steps to help manage financial pressures, including carefully evaluating vacant positions and choosing not to refill some positions when doing so would not negatively affect core operations or student support. These decisions, while not always easy, have helped reduce immediate financial strain and position us more thoughtfully for the future.

As you know, we also are making great strides in our strategic planning process. In a time of financial pressure, it is essential that we think carefully and create strategies to remain focused on our highest priorities. Strategic planning helps us clarify our priorities, identify where we can have the greatest impact, and inform where to focus our resources to advance UMBC’s mission and future. Our strategic plan will help guide decision-making about what we sustain and strengthen and provide clarity about what we cannot or should not do. 

I look forward to setting this course with all of you with a new strategic plan in the fall. As we proceed on that path and in our budget-planning work, we will keep you informed. We are committed to collaboration, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making as we build a stronger long-term financial model and a bright future for UMBC.

With appreciation,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

Happy Monday: Celebrating Our Graduates ↗

Dear UMBC Community,

Commencement is almost upon us! The first day of classes and Commencement are my favorite days of the year, and this year is no exception. We have so much to celebrate this year as we honor the graduates who will receive their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees later this week. 

The road has not been easy, of course, and the contexts for our graduating students continue to be challenging, whether individual or global in nature. Commencement ceremonies, though, are a joyful occasion reflecting on the work and growth of our graduates and the contributions they have made to their chosen fields, to UMBC, and to the world beyond. Commencement also is a chance to express our gratitude to all who have accompanied students on their journeys—their families and friends, fellow students, mentors, advisors, and so many faculty and staff members. 

This year feels even more meaningful for me as I celebrate the undergraduate Class of 2026, most of whom began their UMBC journeys at the same time I did, in the fall of 2022. It has been an honor to walk this path with you. Happy Commencement week to us all! 

Sincerely, 

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

Yash Bhatt ’26—A legacy of service: Building skills, community, and impact at UMBC

Major: Engineering Management (M.S.)
Hometown: Gujarat, India
High School: St. Xaviers High School, India

Turning experience into impact

Over his two years of graduate study at UMBC, Yash Bhatt has given back as much as he’s gained, contributing meaningfully to both the university and the greater Baltimore community. As a graduate student, Bhatt arrived at UMBC with an undergraduate degree and professional experience, but he says he was not yet the confident leader he is today. Over his two years as an engineering management graduate student, Bhatt developed his leadership skills through hands-on learning, collaboration, and real-world application.

A student plays pool in a game room while other students wait their turn
Bhatt lines up his perfect shot in UMBC’s Game Room.

Learning through experience

Bhatt credits his advanced project management course—which he says every engineering management student should take—as one of the most impactful parts of his academic experience. Through the Maryland New Venture Program at bwtech@UMBC, Bhatt contributed as a project manager for SphereHub, an AI-driven platform designed to help international students navigate housing and logistical challenges while studying in the U.S. Not only did Bhatt gain valuable practical experience and the satisfaction of providing tangible assistance to the project, but the opportunity also led to a meaningful summer internship.

A group of students sit around a table with a blue tablecloth and various food items
Bhatt and friends enjoy a fall meal.

Giving back to the community

Bhatt also served as a graduate assistant for both the Division of Professional Studies (DPS) and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. He credits his experience with VITA, where he was trained alongside other volunteers to help low-income Marylanders prepare their taxes, with giving him the confidence to talk to anyone and the sense of purpose that comes from making a real difference in people’s lives. The experience also deepened his understanding of life in the United States and in Maryland specifically, as community members welcomed him into their lives and trusted him with their financial situations, sometimes simply appreciating that someone cared enough to listen. Through his work with DPS, Bhatt is also involved in the Baltimore Waterfront Re-Imagining Project, in which UMBC is serving as a coalition partner in creating an Inner Harbor that better serves the needs of Baltimore residents.

Contributing to campus life

Outside of the classroom, Bhatt dedicated himself to enhancing student life. As a member of the Indian Graduate Student Association and the Black and Gold Student Advisory Board, he advocated for international students and contributed to university decision-making. Bhatt also joined two Alternative Spring Break experiences. Starting as a participant and returning as a program leader, Bhatt immersed himself in what he considers a genuine “American student experience,” building local friendships and making connections within local government and community organizations, in addition to the service the participants provided to the community.

Two students stand in front of large block SASA letters at a community celebration
The South Asian Student Association celebrates with its members.

A legacy of service

In finishing his two years of graduate studies, Bhatt leaves UMBC not just with a master’s degree in engineering management, but with a supportive local community and a wealth of experience spanning high-level project management, community advocacy, and campus leadership. While Bhatt arrived seeking to grow as a professional, he will graduate as a confident leader who has enriched the community as much as it has enriched him.

“The best part of my UMBC experience has been the people and the sense of community. UMBC has this unique balance—it’s diverse and full of opportunity like a larger university, yet still close-knit enough that you truly feel seen and supported,” he says.

All photos courtesy of Bhatt. Story by Sharon Brown, international recruitment coordinator in the Center for Global Engagement.

Playing softball and excelling in the hard sciences, Emily Riggs ’26, is knocking it out of the park 

Emily Riggs came to UMBC from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to study mechanical engineering while playing for UMBC’s championship-level softball team. She was rewarded for her decision early on—in her first year, she was named to the America East All-Rookie team and helped the Retrievers win their fourth-straight America East championship. In the following NCAA Tournament game against Nebraska, Riggs hit UMBC’s first home run in an NCAA Tournament game in 21 years, and the program’s second ever overall. She’s a two-time Academic All-District Honoree and was named to the 2025 America East All-Conference First team after she batted .343 with 11 homers in 49 games.

Q: What’s your experience at UMBC been like, balancing academics and athletics?

A: It’s busy and it means a lot of time management because my days are pretty booked. Usually this means classes in the morning, then practice, and then come home. Maybe I take an hour or two break and then do a bunch of homework. It’s tough but manageable.

Three women stand together smiling for the camera
Four women show off their team rings to the camera

Q: What difficulty does your major add because of the technical course load?

A: In my junior and senior years, I’ve had quite a few intensive projects. I’m in a capstone class right now, and we’re making an intelligent convoy system. So it’s coordinating team meetings, extra work, making requirement documentation, and more. 

Q: What would you say your favorite class has been here and why?

A: My mechanical engineering capstone class. We’re part of actually making the intelligent convoy vehicles, and then there’s two other teams that are focusing on software design. It’s been really cool to see all the stuff that I’ve been learning in school kind of all come together and apply to this one project.

Q: What do you plan to do after you graduate?

A: Get a job in the field of engineering, specifically mechanical engineering. Luckily, there are a lot of options around here! They range anywhere from aerospace to design to construction. So I’m just trying to find somewhere that fits me right now.

Q: How has UMBC helped you get ready for that job after college?

A: Many of our major courses, especially at the 400 level, are structured like a corporation. For example, you’ll have documents that you have to present. It’s still graded, but the professors will have a conversation with you: “Hey, here are the standards that we’re seeing in the real world right now, and here’s how you can meet it.”

Four women pose, showing off their team rings

Q: What would you say your favorite athletic moment has been?

A: Winning the America East softball championship my freshman year, and playing in the NCAA Tournament at Oklahoma State

Q: Do you have a mentor who has helped you while at UMBC

A: This year, I’m with my capstone professor—Dr. E.F. Charles LaBerge—the whole year around, and he’s been really helpful and has focused on preparing us for the real world. He’s there to answer questions, whether they’re about school or not about school.

Q: What opportunities stand out to you from your four years at UMBC? 

A: I’ve learned a lot. I’ve had opportunities working here in the Athletics Department helping keep in-game statistics for soccer, volleyball and basketball. I didn’t think that I was going to do that. I got an internship last year through UMBC, I worked in field service engineering with Beckman Culture Life Sciences. It allowed me to travel around the region and work on a bunch of automation systems. I definitely feel grateful for the academic opportunities I’ve had here.

Visit UMBC Athletics for more information on what our athletes are getting up to.

All photos courtesy of Riggs. Story by Zach Seidel ’12, media and communication studies, director of digital media for UMBC athletics.

End of Semester Update from the Federal Orders and Actions Core Team ↗

Dear UMBC Community,

We write today to share key information and reminders as the semester winds down. Thank you for your questions and feedback throughout the academic year as we worked to keep you informed about U.S. government orders and policy actions.

END OF ACADEMIC YEAR AND SUMMER TRAVEL CONSIDERATIONS

We recognize that many members of our community may have travel plans that include travel outside of the United States. We understand that travel is a personal decision, and we are writing today to equip you with information to help guide your planning. 

General Guidance 

Before traveling abroad, make certain that your passport and any required visas or other authorizations are valid for the destination(s) you intend to visit as well as for reentry into the United States. For more information on entry and exit requirements, please consult the Embassy or Consulate of the country to which you intend to travel or transit through. 

U.S. Visas 

Anyone applying for a new visa at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy should be prepared for the possibility of enhanced screening and/or processing delays. 

If you are planning to travel abroad and will require a new visa in order to reenter the United States, it is strongly recommended that you secure your visa appointment in advance to ensure there is time for processing before you intend to return to the United States. In addition to expanded screening and vetting of online presence, visa applicants should also be aware that the Washington Post recently reported that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio directed consular officers to ask all nonimmigrant visa applicants two new questions: 

  1. “Have you experienced harm or mistreatment in your country of nationality or last habitual residence?” and 

  2. “Do you fear harm or mistreatment in returning to your country of nationality or permanent residence?”

If you have any questions about whether you need a new visa to reenter the United States, please contact the Center for Global Engagement at 410-455-2831.

Travel Bans 

President Trump’s proclamations 10949 and 10988, which established nationality-based full and partial travel bans, are still in effect. These proclamations include entry restrictions for certain immigrants and nonimmigrants from 39 countries and individuals traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued documents. 

We strongly encourage you not to travel internationally if you are impacted by one of these bans as doing so could result in an inability to return to the United States while the bans are in effect. The list of countries subject to either the full or partial travel ban can be found here.

Duration of Status

The U.S. government is planning to change how long international students and exchange visitors can stay in the country. The proposed rule will affect F-1 international students and J-1 exchange students and scholars.

What are the proposed changes?

  • The current rule (flexible): Right now, most international students (F visas), exchange visitors (J visas), and foreign media (I visas) are allowed to stay in the U.S. for as long as it takes to finish their academic programs or research. This is known as “duration of status.”

  • The new rule (strict time limits): The government wants to replace this flexible system with a fixed time limit. Under the new rule, impacted individuals would generally be allowed to stay for a maximum of four years.

  • Needing more time: If a student or researcher needs more than four years to finish their objectives due to a change in their major, unexpected research delays, etc., they will have to formally apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permission to extend their stay.

  • Cap on intensive English study: Students primarily studying English as a second language will be capped at 24 months. 

  • Prohibition on lateral or reverse matriculation: F-1 visa holders will be prohibited from pursuing a program at the same or lower educational level than one already completed.

  • Shorter grace period: F-1 students are currently allowed a grace period of 60 days following completion of their studies or training to prepare for departure, change status, or file for an extension. The new rule would shorten this period to 30 days.

Why mention a proposed rule now? 

While this rule is not yet official, it is moving forward quickly. When it goes into effect after it is entered into the Federal Register, we will notify our community. In the meantime, we want to ensure international students and researchers are prepared for two main reasons:

  • It is close to becoming final: On May 5, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security submitted the final draft of this rule for government review. This is one of the very last steps before a new rule becomes official.

  • It could impact summer travelers: The rule is expected to take effect this summer. If it does, any affected international student or researcher who travels abroad and returns to the U.S. after the effective date will be placed on the new, strict timeline rather than the current, flexible one.

FOR FACULTY: IMPACT OF EXECUTIVE ORDERS AND FEDERAL ACTIONS ON PROMOTION AND TENURE REVIEWS

Faculty Affairs has shared “Updates on Impact of Executive Orders and Federal Actions on Promotion and Tenure Reviews,” with guidelines for the AY 2026 – 27 promotion cycle. We wanted to ensure that all potentially impacted faculty members have reviewed this information. 

In summary, modified promotion and tenure protocols for the AY 26 – 27 cycle remain in effect. These protocols address the impact of federal actions—including changes to research funding and DEIA initiatives—on faculty research, teaching, and service. This guidance will be integrated into all levels of the promotion and tenure review process, from department deliberations to the provost’s annual instructions.

RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACHIEVEMENT

National Science Foundation (NSF)

On April 24, 2026, the Trump administration fired all 22 members of the National Science Board (NSB), the independent body overseeing the $9 billion National Science Foundation. We actively continue to monitor the impacts of this and many other federal actions on a continuing basis and will update the UMBC community as we learn more about potential impacts of upcoming federal changes.

REMINDERS ABOUT RESOURCES

Federal immigration enforcement cards, published in English and Spanish, are available in offices and divisions across campus, including the Center for Global Engagement and the Mosaic Center. The card and related FAQs are available on our Federal Orders and Actions website. 

The Office of General Counsel has provided a guide for supervisors and employees regarding U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) site visits. These visits verify information in employment-based visa petitions (like H-1B) and may involve reviewing documents, inspecting workspaces, or interviewing staff. It is important to note that these are fact-finding visits, not ICE enforcement operations. Please consult the guide for instructions on handling a USCIS visit.

Finally, the Latin Hispanic Faculty Association (LHFA) recently shared requests for additional protocols and guidance related to federal immigration enforcement. The university administration is working with the LHFA to develop additional guidance and resources that will be made available to our community when ready.

We will continue to monitor developments and serve as a resource throughout the summer. We wish every member of the UMBC community a safe, enjoyable, and peaceful summer.

Regards,

The UMBC Federal Orders and Actions Core Team

Valerie Sheares Ashby, President
Manfred H. M. van Dulmen, Provost and Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs
Tanyka M. Barber, Vice President, Institutional Equity and Chief Diversity Officer
Kacey Hammel, Chief of Staff to the President
Renique T. Kersh, Vice President, Student Affairs
Paul A. Meggett, Vice President and General Counsel
D. Paul Monteiro, Vice President, Government Relations and Community Affairs
Karl V. Steiner, Vice President, Research and Creative Achievement
Lisa K. Van Riper, Vice President, University Communications and Marketing
David L. Di Maria, Vice Provost, Global Engagement
Yvette Mozie-Ross ’88, Vice Provost, Enrollment Management and Planning
Ana Oskoz, Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs

Last Day of Classes! ↗

Dear UMBC Community,

Happy Last Day of Classes! To our students: I wish you all the best on your final exams, papers, and projects—you are almost there, and I know you can finish strong. To our faculty and staff: Thank you for your dedication to our students and to your work across all departments and every corner of our campus.

To our entire campus community: Congratulations on all you have achieved during this semester and throughout the academic year. I know it has been challenging on many fronts; I hope you all take time to pause and reflect on what you have accomplished and the positive difference you have made for others.

I look forward to joining you in celebrating our graduating students at Spring Commencement next week!

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

Vunnathi Ankem ’26—finding community and her place at UMBC

For Vunnathi Ankem, psychology, the UMBC experience has been defined by one word: community. As an resident assistant, a researcher, and a multifaceted student leader, she has spent her four years both building community and studying its impact on the human experience. From hosting public service retreats in Baltimore to interviewing members of the South Asian diaspora for her thesis, Ankem’s work bridges the gap between community-centered research and heartfelt advocacy. As she prepares to graduate, she leaves behind a campus made stronger by her leadership and a personal roadmap focused on healing, mentorship, and global research.

Q: What brought you to UMBC?

A: I was really trying to find community, to find a place that fit who I was. And I found that at UMBC. I’ve been welcomed by so many communities here, and that’s not just what brought me to UMBC—it continues to be the reason why I love it. 

A large group of of students in fancy dress standing outside in front of a building with sunflowers.
Peer mentors from this year’s Shriver LLC floor’s annual Passing of the Torch ceremony.

Q: What drew you to the leadership roles you’ve taken on?

A: The three leadership roles I think about are RA of the Shriver Living Learning Community (LLC), upperclassman chair of the Sondheim Scholars Program Steering Committee, and Honors College Council president. I initially never thought I’d become an RA, but the Shriver LLC floor is something I’m very passionate about. Everyone is always helping each other, and that sort of community is what I love. For Sondheim I was drawn to its public service orientation. I was able to host retreats in Baltimore for first-year students and could make sure they understood how beautiful this city is. My role in the Honors College has become something much deeper after we lost the president and my good friend. She was everywhere and her impact on my life, and on everyone else, continues to be inspiring to me after she’s gone.

A student smiles for a headshot in front of a tree
A student stands with a professor in front of a poster presentation

Q: What does leadership mean to you?

A: A lot of leadership is serving and listening. As one person, you can’t have all the ideas and you can’t do everything yourself. The best leaders create other leaders because a huge part of leadership is mentorship. You have to always be looking to see who’s interested and giving people the opportunity to grow and blossom and become amazing student leaders. I’ve been lucky to watch that happen in every single role I’ve had on campus. It’s beautiful.

Several students dressed all in red on an athletic filed holding a banner that says "Erickson" for. a community building exercise.
The resident assistant team from Erickson Hall participating in the ResLife tournament over summer training.

Q: Tell us about your honors thesis research.

A: It all started with Alternative Spring Break. The topic was educational justice for youth experiencing intimate partner violence, which inspired me to do research in that field. A psychology grad student from Pakistan, Ellia Khan, in Dr. Christopher Murphy’s lab inspired me with her South Asian perspectives on this research. Our conversations led me to look into what social factors make us believe certain things and develop certain concepts about unhealthy relationships. The South Asian diaspora is an interesting population to study because it’s fast growing and there’s a wide range of experiences. I’ve done about 14 interviews now, and every single person I’ve talked to I’ve learned so much from.

A student in jeans caught mid-dance move with UMBC's president Valerie Sheares Ashby.
Ankem shows President Valerie Sheares Ashby how to dance to the popular Indian song Naatu Naatu.

Q: What advice do you have for incoming students?

A: When I think about what I’m proud of, it’s not the awards, it’s the people. I remember all the people who were there when I needed support—those people meant more to me than any accomplishment. My advice would be to think about what you’ll look back on. It will most likely be community—the people who were there when you weren’t at your best.

Several students gather for a photo in Baltimore's City Hall as they take a moment from the community engagement efforts they volunteered to do.
Ankem, front, right, and others visited Baltimore City Hall during the Alternative Spring Break trip she co-led for the health equity and patient care group.

Q: What does life after UMBC look like?

A: I’ve been thinking about this question for the whole year. I definitely want to pursue a clinical community psychology Ph.D. in the future—that’s the goal.  I was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship, so I’ll be heading to India for a nine-month research project – a sort of extension of my thesis, but with people from different states across India. I’m also excited to return to my Indian classical dancing roots. Something about being on stage and dancing, it’s my ultimate peace.

All photos courtesy of Ankem. Story by Katharine Scrivener, assistant director of alumni and development communications.

Happy Monday: A UMBC Saturday ↗

Dear UMBC Community,

I recently had one of those days that reminded me—through a richly diverse set of experiences—exactly who we are. I had the opportunity to attend three events the first Saturday in May that showcased in different ways the strengths of our community and the contributions UMBC makes to the state of Maryland.

My day began at an open house at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where UMBC faculty, students, and partners are advancing research on the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. The family-friendly open house gave visitors a chance to experience IMET’s research through hands-on science activities, conversations with scientists, and demonstrations exploring marine science. I could see curiosity taking hold in the minds of the attendees.

Then it was on to Maryland History Day, a celebration of the humanities and the culmination of the Maryland History Day contest that we have hosted on our campus for more than two decades. A partnership with Maryland Humanities, the event brought hundreds of middle and high school students whose questions and perspectives are adding to our understanding of history.

I ended the day at the Linehan Concert Hall, listening to “Songs of Freedom,” a concert by the UMBC Jubilee Singers and Gospel Choir. The music was powerful, carrying stories and history and bringing people together. Three different spaces, three different ways of connecting, learning, and contributing to our communities: That is UMBC.

With deep appreciation,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

UMBC to honor faculty and staff at presidential awards ceremony

UMBC President Valerie Sheares Ashby will host the 2026 Presidential Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, May 13, in the University Center Ballroom. The event will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. and will include an awards ceremony and reception recognizing faculty, staff, and university honorees for excellence in teaching, research, mentorship, service, and creative achievement.

Several UMBC community members have received the University System of Maryland Board of Regents awards, including Tara Carpenter for Excellence in Teaching, Michael Summers for Excellence in Mentoring, Curtis Menyuk for Excellence in Scholarship or Research, Brian Kaufman for Excellence in Creative Activity, and Laura Schraven for Outstanding Service for Students.

Other featured honorees include Lindsay DiCuirci, named 2026 – 2029 Presidential Teaching Professor, and Weidong Zhu, selected as 2026 – 2029 Presidential Research Professor. Joby Taylor, Ph.D. ’05, will receive the 2026 Presidential Distinguished Exempt Staff award, while Michele Kimery will be recognized as the 2026 Presidential Distinguished Non-Exempt Staff honoree.

Additional university honors will be presented to David Clurman and Michael Canale, recipients of the 2026 Diane M. Lee Teaching Award; Keith Harmon, recipient of the 2026 Jakubik Family Endowment Staff Award; Maisha Cron, recipient of the 2026 Karen L. Wensch Endowment Award for Outstanding Non-Exempt Staff; Ramana Vinjamuri, recipient of the 2026 Marilyn E. Demorest Award for Faculty Advancement; David Hoffman, Ph.D. ’13, recipient of the 2026 Teresa Lupinek Endowment Award; and Mehdi Benna, recipient of the 2026 UMBC Research Faculty Excellence Award.

Shawn Bearam, Jr. ’26—Getting involved and finding your place on campus

Just tackling the rigors of a college course load on its own can be daunting for any student. But when you add in the additional responsibilities of working and getting involved with co-curriculars, it can become impossible…unless you’re Shawn Bearam, Jr., computer science. Throughout his time at UMBC, he saw how much value this level of involvement and responsibility added to his college career and saw it as his way of giving back.

Q: What drew you to UMBC?

A: I chose UMBC for a few reasons—first because of the scholarships they provided me, and also because of the diversity here. Other schools didn’t have the same diversity UMBC was able to offer. My last reason was the smaller campus. I felt like a smaller campus would allow me the opportunity to connect with professors and I wouldn’t get lost in a large lecture hall. The professors here actually remember me.

Q: Why did you choose your major?

A: I’m a computer science major. I was always considered the tech kid growing up, and in my early college program, one of the pathways was computer science. I discovered that I liked problem solving, seeing what was going wrong, and it became fun for me. 

Sean Bearam smiling, holding an award.
Two people posing in front of a banner, holding up props, urging students to get involved with voting.

Q: What inspired you to get so involved in different campus departments?

A: I found communities where it seemed that everyone was having fun together, and I wanted to be a part of that. My first role was working with the events staff in Athletics, then I applied to work with bwtech@UMBC. From there, I applied to work in the Vice President of Student Affairs office as an office assistant and I was promoted to lead office assistant. During my first year I was also hired as a resident assistant, and I was later promoted to lead resident assistant. I also served as a first-year ambassador for SGA.

I started to see that I was able to learn so much here. Overall, I saw people who looked like me in different spaces, and I knew they would be able to understand me, so I wanted to get involved. 

Q: How have your various roles on campus impacted your time at UMBC?

A: My many roles  made me want to stay at UMBC. I had the option to graduate last semester, but I wanted to stay another semester, I didn’t want to leave everyone so soon. I feel safe at UMBC. It also made me want to keep pursuing my education—I knew that being involved in so many different organizations meant I needed to keep my GPA up, so it pushed me to stay focused in my classes so I could keep having fun. 

Sean Bearam sitting in lecture hall with peers.
Six people posing for a picture in front of balloons.

Q: How did you balance your academic work with your on-campus jobs?

A: It was a struggle at first, but using my Google Calendar helped me manage my time. My employers here also made sure to emphasize the importance of me being a student first.

My community director at Walker Avenue Apartments, LaDonna Wyatt, became a mentor to me while I was searching for internships. I was applying to different places, but it became difficult and I wanted to give up. She pushed me to keep applying and was there for me throughout the process which then led me to getting an internship with the Division of Information Technology for the state. The faculty and staff here really care about the students as a whole. 

Q: What made you decide to join SGA?

A: I was involved in SGA during my early college program at Montgomery College. I felt like I was really making a change while I was there, and I wanted to do the same at UMBC. I started off as a first-year ambassador in SGA here, then I became the director of communications, and I am currently the chief of staff. I knew after my first year that SGA was something I wanted to continue with and I wanted to keep moving up.

Three people talking at a table with food.
SGA’s “Prove It!” event gives UMBC students the opportunity to inspire change on campus. (Brad Ziegler/UMBC)

Q: Through all of your roles on campus, what is one moment that had the biggest impact on you?

A: Being an office assistant in the VPSA office. Everyday they drive me forward, and encourage me with their motto: Strive to unlock potential and transform lives. It really feels like a family. They’ve been asking me about how I feel as I’m getting ready to graduate and making sure that I have everything together. At first, it was a shock to me, but they really care about me even though I’m about to leave, and they care about what I’m going to be doing even after I leave. That role has had the biggest impact on me because they are so invested in seeing me grow and succeed. 

Q: What’s next for you?

A: I was just offered a role with the State of Maryland with the Division of Information and Technology and I will be starting as a project analyst. 

Two people sitting at a table, shaking hands.
Making connections has been at the forefront of Bearam’s UMBC career. (Brad Ziegler/UMBC)

Q: What advice would you give to new students who are curious about getting involved on campus?

A: You may be scared, but sometimes you have to do things while you’re scared too. It may be scary to go to a big (seb) event because there’s so many people, but that may be the place where you find friends. You can be scared while you do things, but still do it. My personal motto is: The worst thing someone can say is “no.” Take those big steps, join the club, and if the club you’re looking for isn’t there—create it! 

My whole experience at UMBC has been amazing—I can be myself here, and I’m not going to be judged. Community is truly the word to describe UMBC. 

Story by Allison John ’24, psychology, graduate coordinator for first-year engagement and anchor programs. All photos courtesy of Bearam unless otherwise noted.

Happy Monday: Honoring the Integral Contributions of Our Support Staff ↗

Dear UMBC Community,

Last week’s Administrative Professionals Day breakfast was a beautiful occasion to honor the integral contributions of UMBC’s administrative support staff. Across campus, their work brings order to complexity and clarity to what needs to happen next. They notice what others might miss, step in where needed, and ensure that the work of the university moves forward with intention and care.

It was a privilege to celebrate our administrative support staff with an inspiring keynote from UMBC’s own Alicia Wilson ’04, vice president for civic engagement and opportunity at Johns Hopkins University. Alicia spoke powerfully to the value of work that gets done, perhaps without ever being noticed—work that supports others, sustains our community, and makes progress possible. She also gave us even more reason to feel proud of UMBC, as she credited this institution and community for so much of her own success.

To our administrative support staff: I hope you felt truly celebrated at the wonderful breakfast co-sponsored by Human Resources and Strategic Talent Management and the Office of Institutional Advancement. I hope you know—every day—that we value you.

Sincerely,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

Announcing UMBC’s Spring 2026 Commencement Speakers ↗

Dear UMBC Community,

In just a few short weeks, we will come together to celebrate the achievements of our graduates.

Each year, we invite Commencement speakers who reflect the values of our institution and the possibilities before our students. I am excited to introduce the voices who will help mark this important moment.

Please watch this video to learn more about our 2026 Commencement speakers.

I look forward to celebrating together in the weeks ahead.

Warm regards,

President Valerie Sheares Ashby

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