Dear USMSM Students, Faculty, Staff, and Community Members,
It is my distinct pleasure to close out this academic year by expressing my deep gratitude to each of you. Whether you came to USMSM to learn, to teach, to serve, or to grow, your commitment to this institution and to your own goals continues to inspire me. Having served in higher education, government, and the private sector, I know firsthand that you have many options in your professional and personal journey — and I am truly honored that you have chosen USMSM as your partner.
My sincerest thanks go to our university partners — Bowie State University, Salisbury University, Towson University, the University of Maryland College Park, and the University of Maryland Global Campus — whose programs serve students at every stage, from undergraduates launching their careers to mid-career professionals pursuing cutting-edge credentials. I extend special recognition to the University of Maryland College Park's A. James Clark School of Engineering Matrix Lab and the Kennedy Krieger Institute for bringing world-class research and practice to our region and campus.
This year, USMSM was proud to play a pivotal role in the passage of Maryland Senate Bill 529, landmark legislation establishing the Southern Maryland Early College Teacher Pathway Program Workgroup. We are grateful to Governor Moore, our legislative partners, Chancellor Jay Perman, the University System of Maryland leadership, and all regional stakeholders who championed this bill. Its impact on early college access and teacher preparation will be felt for years to come.
Looking ahead, there is much to anticipate. Given the significant presence of federal, state, and local government agencies and military installations across our three-county region, we are putting the finishing touches on a "Doing Business With the Government" speaker series — free and open to the public — designed to help community members and businesses engage more effectively with our public sector partners. Additionally, our colleagues at the UMD Clark School of Engineering are finalizing a Professional Certificate in the Development and Certification of Autonomous Systems, expected to launch during the 2026–27 academic year.
Closer to home, we have invested in your day-to-day experience on campus. This year, we updated classrooms, upgraded technology resources, and — with your input — created a new student lounge (complete with coffee!) in Powell Hall (Building II). I hope these improvements reflect our ongoing commitment to making USMSM a place where you can thrive.
As part of the University System of Maryland — one of three regional higher education centers within a network of 12 public universities serving more than 170,000 students worldwide — USMSM remains focused on what matters most: serving the students, families, and communities of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's Counties. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me or my team to learn more about our programs, partnerships, and upcoming initiatives.
It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside you this past year. Thank you.
Warm regards,
Dale Nesbary, PhD, MPA Interim Executive Director, USMSM