Happy Monday: Joy and Possibility

Dear UMBC community,

There is something special about the beginning of a new academic year. Walking across campus on the first day of classes, I felt such joy in watching our undergraduate and graduate students begin the year—some confident, some finding their way, and many filled with anticipation and wonder. 

I saw members of our community offer directions, hand out snacks, answer questions, and provide reassurance. I also watched faculty teach their first classes, recalling the excitement I always felt delivering that first lecture of the semester.

Everywhere, I saw joy and possibility.

We are a community that believes in people and what is possible for them. Thank you for all you do to support our students and each other.

What a wonderful start to the new academic year. Happy Monday!

President Valerie Sheares Ashby