Dear Friends:

Although the current climate in higher education presents us with some challenges, we have more reason than ever to celebrate the achievements made at the University of Maryland, Baltimore in 2009.  Our faculty, students, alumni, and supporters continue to “make an impact ” not just in Baltimore and Maryland, but across the nation and around the globe as we work to advance health, law, and social justice.

Each October, the campus community gathers during Founders Week to honor the strides that have been made throughout the year.  During Founders Week 2009, the celebrations will be even more meaningful with the opening of our Southern Management Corporation Campus Center—a place for the rich collaboration of our campus community to flourish as we continue to grow in national stature.

Leading off the week is our hallmark Founders event, the black-tie gala, which will be held at The Hilton Baltimore on Monday, Oct. 19.  The gala will include video clips of our Founders Week Award winners, including Research Lecturer of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Public Servant of the Year and Teacher of the Year.  Later in the week, the Researcher of the Year will present a lecture and the Entrepreneur of the Year will be honored at a reception.

Celebrating with our students is a favorite event scheduled at the School of Nursing courtyard on Wednesday, Oct. 21.  Before or after a cookout lunch, students can take the opportunity to explore the Campus Center.  Our final event, the Staff Luncheon, is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 22, to thank our hard-working UMB staff members.

Complete details on events and ticket information will be updated here; please check back often or call university events at 410-706-8035.  And thank you for your support, not just during Founders Week, but also throughout the year.  We cannot do it without you.

Sincerely,

David J. Ramsay, DM, DPhil

President