Reflections on Innovation and Discovery
At the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), our core values are more than words, they are our way of life — the demonstration of what we stand for and the guide for our behaviors.
Our core values of Respect and Integrity, Well-Being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery are at the heart of our mission to improve the human condition and serve the public good of Maryland and society at-large.
Since May, we have been exploring UMB’s core value of Innovation and Discovery — We imagine and explore new and improved ways to accomplish our mission through education, research, clinical care, and service — by posing thought-provoking questions for you to respond to.
Several people have taken this opportunity to engage with this core value in an intentional way and share their insights with the UMB community:
Community insights on the value set of Innovation and Discovery:
“To me, innovation means finding ways to improve something in a way that makes it more effective, efficient, or valuable. It's not just about creating something entirely new — it can also be about making small changes that lead to better outcomes. Whether in learning or work, innovation is about thinking differently, solving problems creatively, and always looking for ways to grow and improve.” ~ Anu Varghese, Provost’s Office
“Creating an environment where new ideas and questions are encouraged requires intentional culture-building rooted in openness, curiosity, and collaboration. In my role as a researcher embedded in a clinical department, I serve as a bridge between the bench and bedside, helping foster a mindset where both basic science rigor and clinical relevance drive discovery. I believe that innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are welcomed and when trainees—especially future surgeon-scientists and translational researchers—are empowered to ask bold, boundary-crossing questions.
This environment is built through multidisciplinary collaboration, shared intellectual spaces, and leadership that models humility and active listening. By facilitating regular interaction between clinicians, basic scientists, engineers, and data scientists, we break down silos and create fertile ground for new ideas. Equally important is ensuring that trainees feel psychologically safe to challenge assumptions and propose novel approaches. I actively work to build this culture by mentoring across disciplines, designing translational research programs, and fostering bidirectional learning between basic and clinical investigators. In a time when the pace of innovation depends on our ability to connect disciplines, fostering such an environment is not only productive—it’s essential.” ~ Valeria Mas, School of Medicine Faculty Member
“Discovery at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry Shady Grove Oral Health Services rotation site happens every day! It is in the moments of curiosity, learning, and patient care. I recognize it in myself when I find a better way to treat a dental patient or learn something new from the staff, a colleague or a case. In others, it shows in their openness to share ideas, ask meaningful questions, or take an innovative approach to improve an outcome.
In our dental facility, Innovation & Discovery isn't just about big breakthroughs, it is about continuously improving how we serve our dental patients and support one another. By embracing new techniques, technologies, and perspectives, we live this core value and help advance UMB's mission to improve education, clinical care and service.” ~ Halima Karim, School of Dentistry Faculty
“I recognize discovery in myself when I uncover new insights about who I am—whether it's identifying a personal strength, developing a new skill, or understanding a concept on a deeper level. It often comes through reflection, curiosity, and the willingness to explore unfamiliar ideas. In others, I see discovery when they become energized by learning, ask thoughtful questions, or show openness to different perspectives. Aligned with UMB’s core value of Discovery, I believe this process drives not only personal growth but also contributes to meaningful advancements in our communities and fields of study.” ~ Anu Varghese, Provost’s Office
Thinking about what helps create an environment where new ideas and questions are encouraged:
“Psychologically safe, open space for all to Contribute freely” ~ Danielle McCamey, Faculty
“An environment that is both collaborative and supportive—where leadership and direct supervisors actively encourage open dialogue, welcome diverse perspectives, and remain receptive to new ideas—fosters innovation, engagement, and continuous growth.” ~ Anu Varghese, Provost’s Office
Thinking about how one can encourage others to share ideas or take risks without fear of judgment:
“When asking for ideas, be willing to truly consider those ideas. People will figure out quickly if asking to give ideas was only a formality. And, if that is the case, you can pretty much forget ever having people volunteer new ideas.” ~ Mary Ann Williams, Health Sciences and Human Services Library Staff
“I will create a space where colleagues feel safe to share ideas and take thoughtful risks without fear of judgment. During meetings this week, I’ll actively invite input by asking open-ended questions like, “What can we do to improve or streamline our workflow?” I’ll also model curiosity by sharing some of my own in-progress ideas to show that innovation often starts with uncertainty. By recognizing all contributions and reinforcing that every suggestion is valued, I hope to foster a collaborative environment where creativity and experimentation can thrive.” ~ Anu Varghese, Provost’s Office
Thank you to everyone who engaged in the Core Values Conversation focused on Innovation and Discovery.