Warm Connections in Winter

As winter continues, we’re reminded how much warmth we find in our connections with one another. This February, we celebrate the conversations, partnerships, and shared efforts that create a sense of belonging across our campus community. Every day, small acts—whether offering help, sharing a smile, or checking in with a colleague—strengthen the bonds that make our campus feel like home. These connections remind us that even in the quietest, coldest months, we are surrounded by support.

Across departments and teams, collaboration fuels our momentum and helps us meet challenges with resilience and creativity. When we take the time to encourage one another, we brighten not only individual days but also the broader spirit of our workplace. Together, we build an environment where everyone feels valued and welcomed. The warmth we create now carries into our classrooms, offices, and student spaces, shaping a campus culture defined by care. In this season, we honor the meaningful relationships that keep our community thriving, no matter the temperature outside.

If you ever want to connect — to share a concern, ask a question, or just say hello — our anonymous feedback form is always open.

Attention Duo Mobile Users: Possible Update Needed

To keep your log-in smooth and secure, Duo Security is updating its Certificate Authority (CA) pinning bundle. If you use Duo for authentication — whether you're a UMB student, faculty member, or staff member — we recommend reviewing and updating your Duo-enabled applications and devices as soon as possible. Upgrading now will help you avoid any service interruptions and ensure your access continues seamlessly. 

In the coming weeks, the Center for Information Technology Services Help Desk will be sending email communications to users impacted by this update, but anyone who uses Duo for multifactor authentication is encouraged to ensure their Duo Mobile app is version 4.85.0 or newer.  

To learn more about the recent change to Duo, visit the Duo Updates and Support Changes webpage.  

 

UMB’s Career Development Month: Sign Up for a Résumé/CV Review

Sign up for a résumé/CV review as part of UMB's Career Development Month! UMB's career development professionals across multiple schools and programs are offering résumé and CV reviews during February and March 2026 in support of UMB's Career Development Month. 

This opportunty is open to UMB students, postdocs, faculty, and staff. Upload a copy of your résumé or CV. You will receive an email connecting you with a UMB career development professional.  

Quantum One Go-Live Date Extended to Oct. 12, 2026

The Quantum Human Capital Management (QHCM) Project timeline has been extended, which will directly affect the launch of Quantum One, the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s new human resources and payroll system. The new go-live date for Quantum One will be Oct. 12, 2026. More details on the reasons for this extension can be found on the QHCM Project website, where new system cutover deadlines will also be posted as soon as possible.

UMB Town Hall on a Safer Baltimore with City Police Commissioner Worley

On Feb. 4, Worley joined UMB President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, for a wide-ranging discussion of crime and safety in Baltimore in a UMB community town hall. Worley, who became commissioner in 2023, is a native Baltimorean who began his police career in 1998 as a BPD patrol officer.

The program also includes questions from a live audience at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law Moot Courtroom, as well as a much larger virtual audience. Watch the video as the commissioner discusses the city’s success at reducing violent crime with a community-focused approach during the event with President Jarrell here.

Feb. 26: UMB Launch Your Life Webinar: ‘Matters of the Heart’

This interactive well-being workshop focuses on cardiovascular health and resilience, exploring key factors that influence heart health across the lifespan. Topics include risk factors and prevention, blood pressure management, stroke, and heart disease. Participants will learn practical, heart‑healthy strategies to help reduce cardiovascular risk and support overall well-being.

Hosted by:
Katie Kecman, Senior Wellness Specialist
Launch Your Life (LYL) Wellness Program

Time: 11-11:45 a.m.

Join the webinar here.

Questions? Email HRWell@umaryland.edu

I Was Mugged; Four Tips to Stop It from Happening to You

The crime didn’t happen at UMB, but the lessons learned can help our community. This story emphasizes how easy it is to become complacent during familiar routines and highlights four practical tips that could help prevent similar crimes: stay alert and avoid distractions, secure personal belongings in bags that are harder to grab, choose well-traveled routes, and seek or offer support in moments of crisis.

You can read the full story here.

If you have experienced trauma or need support, UMB’s Student Counseling Center and Employee Assistance Program offer free 24/7 assistance. For victim or witness support, contact UMB Police and Public Safety at 410‑706‑6882. 

Mindful Moment: Dropping the Suitcases of Worries and Regrets

Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:15 PM

Take a calming 15 minutes to reset with a guided meditation designed to release mental clutter, ease stress, and create space for clearer, more intentional choices. This Mindful Moment supports both emotional and financial wellbeing, aligning with March’s focus on smart spending and healthy habits.

Join the Mindful Moment

Hosted by Katie Kecman, Senior Wellness Specialist
Open to all UMB faculty and staff.

Questions? Email HRWell@umaryland.edu

LYL Wellbeing Webinar: Eating Healthy on a Budget

Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM

In recognition of National Nutrition Month and our March Financial Wellbeing focus, this interactive webinar blends smart budgeting with practical nutrition strategies. Learn how to stretch your food dollars, shop intentionally, use grocery tools effectively, and prepare simple, healthy, affordable meals.

Join the webinar

Hosted by Katie Kecman, Senior Wellness Specialist
Open to all UMB faculty and staff.

Questions? Email HRWell@umaryland.edu

Save the Date: UMBPACE Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon on April 22

Please save the date for the next University of Maryland, Baltimore's Professional Administrative(s) Committed to Excellence's (UMBPACE) Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon on April 22 at 11 a.m.  

The event will include a speaker, exhibits, and lunch. Registration will be required. Please mark your calendar and look for more information soon!

April 22 

Exhibits open at 11 a.m.

Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m.

SMC Campus Center, Elm Ballrooms A and B

This event is open to all UMB support staff!  

What’s something you’ve accomplished on the Staff Senate during your time as a Senator?
Connecting a colleague in the School of Medicine's Epidemiology and Public Health Department with a colleague in the School of Social Work, with the assistance of fellow Staff Senator Jamie Haskel, to explore community partnerships benefiting elementary school children in Baltimore City.