Each month, The President’s Message updates the UMB community on University initiatives; spotlights faculty, staff, and student achievements; and promotes upcoming UMB events.

May 2023

Commencement is a joyous time at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). Our graduates’ hard work, perseverance, and dedication have paid off, and they will soon have their degrees. This is a momentous accomplishment of which they should be very, very proud. I’m grateful to everyone who has helped get our graduates to this point including their friends and families as well as the faculty and staff at UMB.

Graduates, as you prepare to embark on the next stage of your lives, I want to remind you of the core values that have been instilled in you during your time at the University. At UMB we are guided by our core values of Respect and Integrity, Well-Being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery. I hope that these core values will guide you as you leave UMB and embark upon the careers for which you have been prepared.

• Respect and Integrity: Respect and integrity are foundational to a career in health and human services. Treat every person with dignity and respect, adhere to ethical standards, and be honest and transparent in your interactions. This will make you a better professional and someone who will inspire trust from your patients and clients.
• Well-Being and Sustainability: Remember that our resources are our responsibility, so treat them wisely. Think about the world you want future generations to inherit, and do what you can today to make it healthy and vibrant. Take time to take care of yourself so that you can take care of others. Your well-being impacts everything you do.
• Equity and Justice: Be committed to a world where everyone has equal access to opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances. Channel what you’ve learned at UMB and speak out when you see injustice or indifference. Know that you can make a difference, and take action to do so. Do not wait for others to address inequity.
• Innovation and Discovery: The world is constantly changing. I encourage you to embrace that fact and continue to be curious so that you learn and grow throughout your life. Use your knowledge and creativity to make a difference in the world. Seek new discoveries and innovate for the future.

Commencement marks an important end point, but it’s also a new beginning. As our graduates enter the professional world, we celebrate the incredible work they have completed so far and look forward to seeing what they do next. 
Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

Sincerely,

Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS
President