Faculty Excellence initiatives support recruitment, retention, development, and overall success of faculty at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). These initiatives bring together faculty from across the university to provide opportunities for community building, knowledge sharing, mentoring, support, and collaboration.
For additional information about the network, contact the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at diversity@umaryland.edu.
Faculty Excellence: Panel Discussion
On October 29, 2025, the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion hosted a panel discussion on “Academic Freedom in a Changing Landscape: Curriculum, Research, and Community Engagement.” The panel explored the evolving meaning and application of academic freedom in today's complex academic and sociopolitical climate. Topics included curriculum design, research priorities, and community engagement, especially in disciplines serving vulnerable populations. The discussion also covered using data to support inclusive instruction, specialized programming, and community-based research.
Panelists:
Donald B. Tobin, JD
Professor and Former Dean, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
Kenneth H. Wong, PhD
Dean, University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies, and Vice Provost for Graduate Education, University of Maryland, Baltimore
Wendy Shaia, MSW, EdD
Clinical Professor and Executive Director, Center for Restorative Change, University of Maryland School of Social Work
Spring 2025 Faculty Excellence Event
The Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion proudly hosted a Faculty Excellence networking event — a dynamic gathering designed to foster cross-disciplinary connections among faculty from all seven schools.
The event served as a vibrant networking opportunity, allowing faculty to:
- Share insights about their disciplines, research, and current projects
- Explore potential collaborations across academic disciplines
- Engage in meaningful dialogue around innovative and responsive pedagogical practices
A common theme that emerged was the shared commitment to integrating teaching strategies that reflect the unique needs of UMB’s diverse student body and surrounding communities. The exchange of ideas, knowledge, and effective practices underscored UMB's dedication to inclusive excellence.
Through events like this, our Office continues to advance the principles and practices of access, engagement, and accountability to further support UMB’s core values that are at the heart of our mission to “improve the human condition and serve the public good of Maryland and society at-large through education . . .” by empowering faculty to lead with equity, innovation, and collaboration.