As we wrap up 2024, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the progress we've made, the challenges we've overcome, and the values that have anchored us throughout the year. At UMB, we are proud of the collective effort that drives our mission and strengthens our community. This year, we’ve seen firsthand the power of our Core Values in action—values that guide us in creating a more inclusive, equitable, and impactful environment for everyone.
The Staff Senate celebrates the remarkable work of our colleagues through our Core Values Champions. These individuals exemplify our core values, making a profound impact on our community. Their commitment inspires us all to keep striving for excellence as we look ahead to the new year.
We invite you to join in recognizing a colleague who embodies these values by visiting our Core Values Champions page.
Let’s celebrate those who inspire us to be our best.
As your Equity and Action Officer, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the growth we've made together and to think about how we can continue to champion these values in the months ahead. Here’s to a strong finish to 2024 and an exciting start to 2025!
Happy holidays,
Nia Speaks
Sr. Business Manager
The Center for Restorative Change “Building Relationships for Liberation”
University of Maryland School of Social Work
UMB Staff Senate, Equity and Action Officer
Advocating on behalf of UMB staff umaryland.edu/ssenate
News from Across Campus
UMB’s 2025 Holiday Calendar
UMB's 2025 Holiday Schedule is now available. Supervisors are encouraged to work with employees in accommodating requests to observe religious holidays that are not listed on the holiday schedule; employees may use, with sufficient notice, their personal/annual leave or floating holidays.
Nominations for USM Board of Regents Staff Awards: Deadline Extended to January
The University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents Staff Awards nomination period for 2024-2025 has been extended to Jan. 10, 2025.
The awards are a Council of University System Staff initiative based on the nominee’s work quality within their institution, community, or surrounding environment.
The awards are the highest honor bestowed by the board for the achievements and impact of the work of exempt and non-exempt staff employees from USM institutions.
To nominate yourself or a colleague for an award, go to this link:
Please join University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, and Diane Forbes Berthoud, PhD, MA, vice president and chief equity, diversity, and inclusion officer, in collaboration with the Office of the Provost, for the third Convening of Schools.
The School of Medicine will give a summary of the state of EDI in its school.
SMC Campus Center, Elm Rooms & Zoom
Monday, Jan. 13, 2025
3-4 p.m.
Accepting Nominations for Employee Recognition Awards
Please help us recognize the outstanding staff members we have across the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) by applying for or nominating someone for one of the following Employee Recognition Awards:
Community Service Award (Nominate or apply by Jan. 31, 2025)
James T. Hill Scholarship (Apply by Jan. 31, 2025)
Feb. 6: 2025 MLK and Black History Month Celebration
UMB will hold its Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Month 2025 celebration on Feb. 6, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at MSTF Leadership Hall, with a reception/light lunch to follow in the atrium outside the auditorium.
The keynote speaker will be Darrick Hamilton, PhD. The spoken-word performance will be given by Lady Brion, MFA.
What’s something you’ve accomplished on the Staff Senate during your time as a Senator?
I'm a new staff senator and co-chair of the Board of Regents (BOR) Staff Awards Committee. I look forward to presenting UMB's exceptional nominees to the Council of University System Staff (CUSS).
As representative to the UMB Council for the Arts & Culture, I am excited to enhance our workplace through art installations and cultural events that improve employee engagement.
What’s a fun vacation that you’ve taken or would like to take?
My father's family is from Montana, often called "the last best place." The expansive wilderness and breathtaking beauty put life into perspective. I’d like to take the Empire Builder train from Chicago through Montana's Glacier National Park, following the Lewis and Clark trail. I'd also love to explore Switzerland's even more majestic mountain peaks.
What’s your most prized possession and why?
I have my great-grandfather's gold medal from a midnight motorcycle race he won on January 1, 1922, in New York City. The beautiful medallion hangs on a long gold chain, a cherished family heirloom from my mother. When I wear it, I feel like I'm carrying my family's strength and legacy with me.
What’s the theme song to your life?
"Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles has guided me through challenging times. It represents hope, relief, and renewal, perfectly fitting whatever season of life I'm navigating.
See You Soon!
Our next meeting is Thursday, January 30th from noon to 2 p.m.
All UMB staff members are welcome and encouraged to attend.