To the UMB Community:

Maryland lost one of its greatest public servants yesterday. House Speaker Michael E. Busch succumbed to pneumonia, after waging several heroic health battles in recent years. We are honored that he trusted us with his care.

Speaker Busch, the longest-serving House Speaker in Maryland history, was a powerful voice for the progressive and humane policies that make Maryland the greatest state in the nation. He supported and mentored young people in Anne Arundel County as the youth sports director for 40 years. That dedication earned him the nickname "coach," not only among community members but among his General Assembly colleagues as well. Mike Busch's devotion to children in Anne Arundel County was legendary.

We also are fortunate that his commitment extended across the state, including our West Baltimore community. Under Speaker Busch's leadership, UMB received a $4 million grant to build a new Community Engagement Center so that we might expand enriching programs and services in the neighborhoods near campus. He shared our vision for a strong city, and enthusiastically encouraged this project.

A former teacher himself, Speaker Busch was an advocate for education, and fought to increase spending at every level. He worked tirelessly to ensure the brightest possible future for all Maryland students. Not only did he support UMB and our education mission broadly, he also played a major role in the development and success of MPowering the State. Through our partnership with the University of Maryland, College Park, MPower continues to stimulate joint academic and research programs that improve the human condition, just as Speaker Busch hoped it would.

All of us — at UMB and far beyond — owe an enormous debt to a selfless public servant, Michael Erin Busch. We will miss him. 

Sincerely,

Jay A. Perman, MD
President