Congratulations to all UMBC staff celebrating anniversaries this year. You may see the full list and access the program book for 2023 here.
This webpage honors UMBC staff celebrating milestone anniversaries, including 30, 35, or 40 years of service, as well as 2023 retirees, with bios shared either by the honorees or their offices. Join us in thanking these colleagues for all they do for UMBC!
Jump to Celebrations of: 30 Years of Service I 35 Years of Service I 40 Years of Service I Retirees
Celebrating 30 Years of Service
John Fritz, Ph.D. ’16, language, literacy, and culture, is associate vice president of instructional technology in the Division of Information Technology. He is responsible for UMBC’s focused efforts in teaching, learning, and technology, including learning analytics. He is also responsible for tier 1 (basic) user support, including knowledge management and the New Media Studio. John came to UMBC in 1995 as director of media relations, working with journalists to tell UMBC’s inspiring story. He is grateful for the opportunity to reinvent himself using technology and to support UMBC’s excellent faculty. Finally, he’s proud that all of his immediate family are (or will be by this Spring) UMBC alumni.
Jim Krebs is being recognized for his exceptional 30-year commitment to the UMBC community within the Telecommunications Group. With unwavering dedication to excellence and a customer-centric approach, Jim has consistently advocated for the best interests of both the customers and UMBC. His integrity and passion for creating a positive experience have significantly enriched our telecommunications services. Jim’s selfless dedication and tireless commitment serve as an inspiration to us all. We proudly honor him for his outstanding contributions, which have strengthened UMBC’s telecommunications landscape and left an indelible mark on our community.
Tim Lynch started working at UMBC as a part-time office assistant in what was then known as the Continuing Education Department. After just a few weeks on the job, Tim knew that this is where he wanted to be and what he wanted to do—he loved the people, loved the campus, and felt that this was where he might be able to have a positive impact on a few lives. Thirty years later, Tim is currently serving as the acting director of UMBC Summer and Winter Programs. In 1993, Tim was honored to receive the UMBC Presidential Distinguished Staff Award. However, his greatest honor has been the opportunity over the years to work with many truly amazing UMBC faculty, staff, and students. Tim attributes his success to his remarkable colleagues, and to the example, support, and love of his parents, Tom and Lena Lynch, his wife, Lisa, his wonderful family, and his very, very special friends. For all these people, he is eternally grateful. In his spare time, Tim enjoys collecting books, following the Baltimore Orioles, referring to himself in the third person, and writing autobiographical sketches for service award booklets.
Barbara Smith began state service with the Montgomery County Department of Social Services before joining UMBC in 1999 as an administrative assistant with the Hilltop Institute, formerly the Center for Health Program Development and Management at UMBC. She worked in the Provost’s Office while in interim roles for institutional research and the Learning Resources Center, and served on the Shared Services planning committee. Barbara is currently the program management specialist for Academic Engagement and Transition Programs . She completed the Personal Leadership and Project Management Cohort-III in 2018 – 2019, serves as treasurer for the Nonexempt Staff Senate (NESS), and represents NESS on the Inclusion Council. Barbara received the 2015 – 2016 Karen L. Wensch Endowment Award for Outstanding Non-Exempt Staff.
Celebrating 35 Years of Service
Laura Brown ’88, computer science, has been a transformative force in her 35 years of dedicated service in the Division of Information Technology at UMBC. Her journey began in print dispatch as a student worker, and then evolved to manage the data center, and later transitioned to research computing where she aided faculty in embracing technology in research. Evolving with the times, as associate director, she spearheaded campus computing infrastructure and later transitioned to tackling cybersecurity challenges. Her empathetic approach and technical prowess leave a lasting impact on students and staff. Laura’s focus on people shines through as she mentors new staff and extends help wherever needed.
Beverly Conner ’87, ancient studies, M.A. ’13, education, began her career at UMBC as a student worker at the library in the Serials and Record/Tape departments. Outside of the library, she worked at AV Services under Joan Costello (’73, social work) as well as the campus newspaper, The Retriever. Beverly began working at UMBC as library staff in November 1988. She was vice president and later president of the On-Campus Alumni group in the early 2000s. She took classes to receive a minor in Theatre and was the house manager for several productions.Beverly was a founding member of the UMBC Ballroom Dance Club and is now a member of Gritty Kitties. UMBC has become a second home to Beverly, with the faculty, staff, and patrons as extended family members. The best part though, by far, has been working with the student assistants. Beverly has loved being a student supervisor since 1988. She has trained and supervised close to 200 students over the years.
Donique Lewis began her career at UMBC in 2004 in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA). In 2019, Donique became the dean’s executive administrative assistant in the College of Engineering and Information Technology. Since being at UMBC, Donique has served the campus community as the VPSA office coordinator for the Maryland Charity Campaign, VPSA designee for the staff awards committee, COEIT’s dean’s office representative for Return to Campus Work group, a Commencement volunteer, and a volunteer for fall Welcome Week tables and student move-in day. Donique resides in Owings Mills with her husband of 24 years and son, a senior mechanical engineering student at UMBC. She is currently pursuing a B.S. degree at UMUC in gerontology and aging services and has recently been inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society for maintaining a 3.7 GPA. Donique’s dream of becoming a college graduate is an important goal and her son is one of her greatest motivators. She loves spending time with family and friends and cruising.
Wendy Martin ’87, biochemistry and molecular biology, has been with UMBC’s Office of Technology Development (OTD) since 1995. Prior to coming to UMBC, Wendy worked on various research projects at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. It was there that she began to appreciate how commercialization can be a determining factor in realizing real impact from your innovation. As the director of OTD, Wendy has focused on building a campus culture conducive to establishing and attracting new companies and strengthening UMBC’s external partnerships throughout the state. Her collaboration with faculty from across disciplines, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, have been instrumental in growing the university’s reputation as a strong driver of economic development for the region. Wendy’s mastery of the challenging and complex world of patents and funding has helped faculty continue their important work. In addition to her UMBC degree, Wendy has an MBA from Loyola College in Maryland.
Mike Yates believes that a building is an interesting thing. When you drive down a city street they all look so permanent and unchanging. In actuality, they are constantly changing and the ones that last require a lot of care and attention. For the last 28 of his 35 years in the University System, Mike has been the steward of the Rita Rossi Colwell Center (formerly the Columbus Center). His unwavering commitment, attention to detail, and dogged persistence has kept the building not only in exceptional operating condition but has also maintained a functional, stunning, multi-purpose space in the heart of downtown Baltimore. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of every system in the building, which he can explain even in the simplest terms to those who need it in the simplest of terms. Most importantly, he cares deeply about the building and goes to great lengths to ensure that it remains in top condition.
Celebrating 40 Years of Service
Janice R. Jackson ’89, music, started her career at UMBC as a student. She has worked in the Career Development and Placement Center, the Graduate School, and University College. Janice spent eight years in the biological sciences department as a secretary and graduate program coordinator. As a professor, Jackson has been a voice faculty member of the music department since 1995. She also serves as choral director of the UMBC Jubilee Singers and the UMBC Gospel Choirs. She has performed as a soloist in concert halls and church edifices in the U.S., Germany, Switzerland, France, Austria, Italy, St. Thomas, St. Croix, and Tortola British Virgin Islands. Janice is also on faculty at the Carter School of Music at New Shiloh Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland; and serves as minister of worship and fine arts at the Christian Community Church of God where Melvin C. Green serves as pastor. She holds a B.A. degree from UMBC and a M.M. degree from University of Maryland, College Park. Janice has also studied abroad at the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria, and received an honorary doctoral degree in sacred music from the Eastern Theological Seminary.
Elaine (Volkman) O’Heir ’81 political science, joined UMBC in 1999. Previously, she worked downtown at the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus for nine years in human resources and then at the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services for seven years as an office manager in education and certification. As the department coordinator for the psychology department, Elaine’s responsibilities encompass the scheduling of graduate and undergraduate classes, managing the department’s facilities, solving a wide range of problems, and assisting the department chair in all the aspects of the day-to-day affairs related to running a large academic department. Elaine loves working in academia, learns something new every day, and generously shares the wealth of her institutional knowledge and history with all of the members of the department.
Steve Ostrove’s four-decade career at UMBC showcases his enduring impact. Joining us in 1998 after 15 years at College Park, he transformed our computer labs to Windows 2000 and played a key role in designing our still-active Windows Active Directory. For over 15 years, Steve has been a pillar of our Middleware Infrastructure group, supporting crucial areas such as Identity Management and PeopleSoft. His exceptional ability to collaborate beyond his department is one of his most valuable assets. Steve’s role as a mentor—guiding team members at all levels—underscores his expertise and commitment to helping others. His dedication and contributions have enriched our university community.
Barry Riley first came to UMBC in 1980 as an undergraduate student, and began working in October of that year as a student employee in the Athletics department. He began his full-time employment with UMBC as an athletic equipment specialist while continuing his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. He briefly worked at Howard Community College before returning to the Athletics department at UMBC, subsequently becoming the facilities coordinator in July 1986. He was promoted to the position of assistant athletic director for operations before accepting the position of manager of contracted services in the Facilities Management department in January 1998. For the past 25 years, Barry has been an integral member of Facilities Management, and has had the responsibility for various functions including the automotive, landscape and grounds, and lock shops, along with his current management of facility support/contractual services, work control, central receiving, and the student workforce.
Bridget Stone ’03, sociology, began her career at UMBC in 1983 in the Office of Student Affairs. In 1985, she accepted a full-time position in the Office of Special Sessions, Workshops, and Institutes (now the Office of Summer, Winter, and Special Programs). This department would eventually become part of the Division of Professional Studies (DPS), which is responsible for growth and service in Summer, Winter, and Special Programs, Professional Programs, UMBC at the Universities at Shady Grove, and UMBC’s Institute for Extended Learning. Bridget held a variety of positions in DPS, including program management specialist, public affairs officer, and database administrator, and she also spent six years in Institutional Advancement managing the alumni database, while pursuing and receiving her bachelor’s degree. Bridget is currently the director of finance and administration in DPS, where she manages a team of dedicated individuals and develops efficiencies within accounting and finance. She believes each of her positions contributed to her success and well-rounded expertise while allowing her to serve countless faculty, staff, and students, and develop numerous friendships along the way.
Laura Weathers ’80, Afro-American studies, M.A. ’87, history, has had a long and valued career at UMBC. She has been a dedicated full-time staff member of the Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery since March 1983. Laura is a kind and respectful colleague who is willing to go above and beyond when working with others and managing the serials collection. She also has a wonderful sense of humor. Regardless of the task, her attention to detail and careful assessment of process creates the best possible outcomes. One of the most recent and most impactful examples is her leadership regarding our efforts to house the entire serials collection on the second floor of the library. She saw the benefits to our users and presented a proposal for the project that was so thoroughly conceived and well articulated that the project has proceeded with very few modifications since it was originally submitted in 2018. When working on committees or in groups, she is always prepared and thoughtful in her approach to the work. Laura’s long tenure at UMBC is a textbook example of what being committed to working with the students and faculty for the best outcomes looks like. When not at work Laura loves to read, to study Nile Valley civilization, travel, and spend time with family and friends.
Retirees
Lisa Akchin retired from UMBC with 28 years of service to the university in the Office of Institutional Advancement. Initially focused on marketing and communications, her portfolio expanded dramatically throughout her tenure, and she played a critical role in many of UMBC’s milestone accomplishments, including three comprehensive fundraising campaigns and the university’s 2015 strategic plan. As she worked to position UMBC locally and nationally and develop the communications and marketing team, she also advocated for UMBC with local and state officials and helped to deepen UMBC’s engagement with surrounding communities. Among her service to the university were roles as president’s liaison to the University Steering Committee and as co-chair of the Campus Climate Coordinating Group and UMBC Neighbor Relations Group.
Cathy Allison joined UMBC in 1984 as assistant to the chair of the physics department, before joining the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences as assistant to the dean in 2005. In 2011, she joined the Office of the Vice President for Research and Creative Achievement as executive administrative assistant, where she provided invaluable support to ensure the research office and its affiliated centers were running smoothly. She managed the payroll, new hires, and re-appointments, and ensured that the many aspects of the research office ran smoothly. The entire office is thankful to Cathy for her 39 years of dedicated service to UMBC.
Kenneth Boyd retired from UMBC’s Facilities Management department after 26 years of service as the auto shop supervisor. Kenny started at UMBC in 1996 as an auto service mechanic. In 2005, after becoming ASE Certified, he was promoted to auto service mechanic chief II. In both capacities, he specialized in small engine repair and was instrumental in keeping UMBC’s grounds’ and the Athletics department’s equipment in top notch condition. In addition to equipment, he helped maintain an inventory of nearly 200 vehicles. Kenny was promoted to the auto shop supervisor in 2015 and continued his service to UMBC through great leadership, efficiency, and innovative ideas. In his spare time, he enjoys deep sea fishing and spending time with friends and family, especially his two sons. Since retiring, Kenny has become a grandfather and is enjoying each day in his new role.
Pete Caringi, Jr. came to UMBC in the fall of 1991 as the men’s soccer coach and eight years later, the program earned the program’s first NCAA Tournament bid. After winning America East Conference titles in 2010, 2012, and 2013, his 2014 squad captured a fourth crown, advanced via shutout in four consecutive road NCAA contests and earned a trip to the College Cup in Cary, North Carolina. The Baltimore native earned National Coach of the Year honors from the sport’s governing body, the NSCAA (now United Soccer Coaches) and Soccer America, in the 2014 season. Caringi surpassed former UMBC Head Baseball Coach John Jancuska long run (1978 – 2011), when he completed his 32 seasons as the Retrievers’ head coach in 2022.
Terry Cook joined UMBC in 2008 after serving as senior associate vice president at the University of Maryland Global Campus for almost four years. Prior to that, Terry spent 15 years at the University of Maryland, Baltimore in both facilities management and procurement senior management roles. Over her nearly 15 years at UMBC, Terry provided executive oversight and supervision to Facilities Management, Procurement and Strategic Sourcing, Environmental Safety and Health, Management Advisory Services, the Bookstore, and Campus Card/Mail Services. She also directly managed dining services and Chesapeake Employers Insurance (CEI) Arena management contracts and handled all real property matters. She was widely known and respected for her professionalism and integrity, attention to detail, extraordinary work ethic, and strategic thinking and planning skills. Her ability to keep multiple projects on track is unmatched. Terry’s expertise was key to numerous unique and transformative projects, including the transition of the Rita Rossi Colwell Center (formerly the Columbus Center) in the Inner Harbor to UMBC’s management, launching the UMBC CEI Arena, facilitating the return of the District Courthouse property to UMBC, establishing the campus’s first Enterprise Risk Management Program, and managing and facilitating the transfer of the 175-acre Spring Grove property to UMBC.
Dave Gleason, M.S. ’04, information systems, began his UMBC career in 1992 in the dual role of contracts and grants manager in the Office of Sponsored Programs and technology administrator in the Office of Technology Development. In 1994, he became UMBC’s first full-time technology transfer officer. In 1996, he left UMBC, but returned in 1997 to a position as university counsel in legal affairs (later the Office of the General Counsel). Following his master’s program, he also took on a dual role, serving as associate vice president for research, an interim position he held for six years. In 2006, he was promoted to general counsel. He maintained this role until his retirement in April 2023.
Renay Horton started at the Yum Shoppe as a part-time cashier in 1995, when the Yum Shoppe and Bookstore were located in the University Center. Quickly, she became an invaluable member of the staff and started her full-time role as merchandiser in 1999. In 2002, when the Bookstore and Yum Shoppe moved to The Commons, Renay took over as Yum Shoppe assistant buyer. And finally, when long-time Yum Shoppe buyer Harry Scarpulla retired in 2020, Renay stepped into the role. For those who frequented the Yum Shoppe, you know Renay was always there to greet you with a smile and would help you track down that sweet or salty craving. In March 2022, Renay decided she was ready to move on from UMBC to an opportunity that allowed her more time with her granddaughter.
Pat Jenkins came to the UMBC Bookstore in 1998, first stepping into the role of buyer’s clerk to help manage the Yum Shoppe. One of Pat’s greatest loves is reading—it’s what drew Pat to the Bookstore to begin with. In 2001, the position of trade book buyer opened and Pat leapt at the opportunity. As online sourcing of items grew, the Bookstore’s trade book and course material department began to change shape and in 2010, Pat moved into the course material department. In 2020, again, as the course material world shifted into more digital options, Pat moved into the Bookstore receiving department. In May 2023, Pat retired after 30 years with the state and to spend her time reading and hiking with her already retired spouse.
Mary Lilly joined UMBC in 1996 as a primary receptionist in the Athletics Department before joining Facilities Management in 2000. In 2007, she joined the Office of Research Protections and Compliance as executive administrative assistant in the research office, where she provided invaluable support to UMBC’s Institutional Review Board and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee in reviewing and coordinating human and animal subject-based research projects across the entire campus community. She also provided financial and travel support for senior members of the research office. The team is thankful to Mary for her 27 years of dedicated service to UMBC. During retirement, Mary plans on spending more time with her grandchildren and traveling with her husband.
Patty McGonigle began working at UMBC in July 1992 as an office secretary II in MIPAR (Maryland Institute for Policy Analysis and Research). From MIPAR, Patty moved to what is now the Hilltop Institute, where she held several positions and eventually became a business services specialist. After Hilltop, Patty moved briefly to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry before finding her home with the education department. Patty worked there for 17 years before retiring in December 2022. But you can’t keep Patty away from UMBC. She returned to campus in March 2023 and currently works as an accounting associate in the Department of Information Systems. Patty is a huge local sports fan, and she raised two daughters while working at UMBC. One is a UMBC alumna and director of the UMBC Bookstore. The other daughter is a University of Maryland, College Park alumna.
Susan Mocko began her state service in 1982 working for the Bureau of Support Enforcement as a typist clerk IV and advanced to the level of office secretary II, leaving there in 1985. From 1985 to 1988, she worked for the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council as an office secretary II. At that time, she transferred to the University System of Maryland working for UMBC in the Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering. She was promoted to secretary III and then to administrative assistant I. She transferred to the Division of Professional Studies in 1995, and in 1997 she moved to the Office of the Provost as an executive administrative assistant I, where she worked until she retired August 31, 2023. Although Susan is retired, she continues to work. She accepted an amazing job working for a local government agency. She enjoys spending time with her incredible daughter, Andrea (working at UMBC in DOIT) and other family members. She continues to have her small farm and enjoys her daily life with family and her fur babies!
Chris Peregoy ’81, visual and performing arts, M.F.A. ’99, joined UMBC in 1979 and started working as a student lab monitor for visual arts in 1980. Shortly after he graduated in 1981, he was hired as a lab instructor, teaching labs sections of photography and managing the photography facilities. And in 1987, Chris was promoted to associate staff program assistant. While working full-time, Chris earned his M.F.A. from the IMDA graduate program. Chris was promoted to program manager, overseeing print media, photography, and art print, and the visual arts large format printing lab in 2016. After more than 40 years as a UMBC Retriever, Chris retired on July 1, 2023, and plans to continue pursuing his love of photography and historic photographic processes.
Sue Plitt’s tremendous contributions for over 20 years centered within the Division of Student Affairs including Event and Conference Services, Campus Life, and the Career Center. As the associate director for employer relations and recruitment programs, Sue made a lasting impact on the career journeys of thousands of students and alumni. Sue served as the central driver in elevating UMBC as a top source of talent across industry sectors. She successfully elevated our Career Center operations and employer relations over her tenure at UMBC. Sue received the 2018 Jakubik Family Endowment Award in recognition of her contributions. Sue’s deep relationships across campus were built on excellence, trust, and a healthy dose of humor. The Career Center was very fortunate to have had Sue as part of the management team for so many years and value her exceptional contributions to students’ career success and the university in general.
Denise Plummer began her state service at UMBC in 1996 as an administrative assistant at The Hilltop Institute (then called the Center for Health Program Development and Management). She originally provided administrative support to the deputy director and the long-term care unit. In 2004, Denise moved to Hilltop’s new business office and remained in the position of business services specialist until her retirement. She performed clerical activities essential to accounting and was responsible for processing all orders, purchases, and travel expense statements. Denise ensured that all staff followed internal controls for ordering goods and services, charges were posted and reallocated to the correct funds, all purchases were legitimate, and proper signature approvals were fulfilled. Denise was essential to Hilltop’s operations and will be greatly missed by the team, they wish her well.
Emma Sellers ’03, English, M.A. ’08, instructional development systems, joined UMBC in 1992. She served in a variety of positions that included all aspects of operations in the Department of Political Science, as well as taught student success and first-year seminar courses. Education is important to Sellers, and she earned two degrees from UMBC. Emma was awarded several awards before she retired from UMBC, namely, Employee of the month – 1996; University System of Maryland Board of Regents Outstanding Service to Students 2005 – 2006; President’s Commission for Women Achievement Award 2010 – 2011; and the Karen L. Wensch Endowment Staff Award 2022 – 2023. Emma’s thirst for learning has not stopped. She continues to serve at her local church as a staff writer, election judge for the State of Maryland, and an active board member of the Graystone Community Association. Emma is now taking Spanish classes at her local community center. In addition, she has partnered with her daughter in a non-profit organization, Young Moms Odyssey Network, dedicated to empowering young women to build a successful future for themselves and their families. She enjoys spending time with her family. Sellers has discovered that retirement is not a time to rest, but a chance to truly live and fulfill the desires of her heart. Emma’s retirement has opened other doors for future success stories.
Jo Ann Smith was a stalwart member of the Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery staff from the time she joined as a library technician I in September 1996 until she retired as a library services specialist in technical services on June 30, 2023. Technical services keeps jigsaw puzzles around for staff during coffee breaks, lunch breaks, or even just passing through, and Jo Ann enjoyed them. However, she was also willing to solve any puzzle related to cataloging and processing materials. Whether it was a missing, misplaced, mislabeled, or mis-cataloged item, she could solve the mystery! She also served as the music cataloger in residence and standing order expert. When the library repaired materials in-house, it was Jo Ann’s handiwork that enabled them to get the materials back on the shelves for users. In addition to her job responsibilities, she regularly volunteered to help with the Library Cheers Committee, always contributing to the picnic, winter party, or cakewalks. She was known for her delicious deviled eggs! The library team is very happy for Jo Ann but misses her because she was a wonderful colleague. They report that retirement suits Jo Ann. She is enjoying time with her retired friends, volunteering at the senior center, crafting, and taking art classes.
Wanda Soares Nottingham is emeritus staff and a highly experienced and accomplished administrative assistant, having recently retired after an impressive 26-year career in office management. Throughout her tenure in Africana studies, she consistently demonstrated exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. As an administrative assistant, Wanda was responsible for overseeing and coordinating various office operations, including managing schedules, arranging travel, and maintaining confidential records. Her extensive experience allowed her to handle multiple administrative tasks proficiently, ensuring that the office ran smoothly and efficiently. Wanda’s expertise extended beyond routine administrative duties. She was known for her ability to anticipate needs and proactively address any challenges. Her exceptional problem-solving skills and resourcefulness allowed her to easily navigate complex situations and find creative solutions to improve office processes. In addition to her administrative skills, Wanda was highly regarded for her exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities. She fostered a collaborative and productive work environment through positive relationships built with colleagues, clients, students, and executives. Wanda remained up-to-date with the latest office technologies and software applications throughout her career. She was quick to adapt to new tools and embraced opportunities to enhance efficiency and productivity. After an illustrious 26-year career, Wanda retired as a highly respected and valued member of the office management profession. Her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence have impacted her colleagues and the organizations she served.
Tim Sparklin began his career at the University of Maryland, Baltimore in 1983. He came to UMBC in 1992 to support grants and contracts management. He then created a system of providing campus-wide administrative oversight for all research compliance. After 30 years of working at UMBC, he ended his career on January 31, 2023, as the director of the Office of Research Protections and Compliance. Tim was awarded emeritus staff status recognizing his almost 40 years of dedicated service to USM and UMBC. Tim now spends his time in retirement with his spouse, Kim, his children and grandchildren and in his Catonsville garden.
Dinah Winnick led UMBC’s award-winning communications team from 2013 to 2023, after beginning as a communications manager in 2010. She worked to promote the university’s national visibility and reputation with a focus on UMBC’s values. Dinah represented the university as a spokesperson, launched UMBC News and UMBC’s social media strategy, and garnered coverage in outlets from the Chronicle of Higher Education to The New York Times. She served for four years as a Professional Staff Senate senator and for a decade on the board of UMBC’s Women’s Center. She also served as lead faculty for the CASE Media Relations Conference and on APLU’s Public Impact Research Working Group.