By Jack Wynn
The University of Maryland Senate held their seventh meeting of the year over Zoom on Wednesday afternoon, discussing new initiatives surrounding mental health, on-campus projects to combat climate change and updates with the library’s systems.
During the meeting, Jennifer King Rice, senior vice president and provost, emphasized the university’s investment in campus mental health. UMD is implementing increased access to remote/virtual therapy for students, T.E.R.P.S. suicide prevention training, a counseling center fee to support new services and other important measures, she said.
“We know that mental health is a serious issue in higher education,” Rice said. “We have to take action to support the wellbeing of our community, and we’ve been doing that.”
Rice also delivered a “strategic plan update” to improve the direction of UMD, starting with a celebration of the Fearlessly Forward initiative.
Rice credited Fearlessly Forward with the implementation of numerous university committees in fall 2022, the collection of important general data regarding campus activity and a plan to work collaboratively with students, faculty and staff down the road.
Rice also emphasized the university’s commitment to teaching innovation as she referenced a combined $4 million invested in grants across 139 projects and over 200 courses.
Additionally, UMD is working on action to combat climate change. The university’s net greenhouse gas emissions are down 54% from 2005-2022, Rice said, and that UMD is acquiring all their electricity from renewable sources.
With UMD now on track to be carbon neutral by 2025 and the creation of the very popular sustainability studies minor, UMD has been making real progress in their sustainability efforts.
Rice also took the opportunity to honor the life of University Senator Rance Cleaveland, who passed away this year while serving his term.
Finally, Rice concluded her address with an update on campus “excellence.” Maryland’s ranks first in colleges for LGBTQ+ students, fifth in undergraduate entrepreneurship and 19th among public schools and national universities.
“These collective rankings show not only our excellence in academia, but they reflect the inclusivity of our campus and our commitment to cultivating an excellent and inclusive workplace,” Rice said.
Dean of Libraries Adriene Lim and Associate Dean of Digital Services and Technologies David Dahl followed Rice’s speech with an update of their own regarding new management systems for libraries.
In a decision that was announced in January 2023, UMD Libraries and other associated members/groups will be moving to Alma and Primo searching systems. This change will allow for advancement in resource sharing, knowledge organization, circulation of materials and other upgrades.
“This is a once in a generation change for the libraries to make,” Dahl said. “It’s grounded in necessity and in investment in future opportunities for us.”
Rice also discussed how at the May 7 meeting, the current term for University Senators will end and the transition for newly-elected Senators will begin. The new Chair-elect is elected at this meeting, and the election process for all elected committees and councils will begin as well.
Despite the important nature of topics discussed at University Senate meetings, many students are unaware of what is being discussed and the role the Senate plays in campus life.
“I honestly do not know that much about the UMD senate,” said sophomore mechanical engineering major Mason Epstein. “I do know that they help communicate the needs of students… I would like to see them put forth more effort into making UMD a safe and inclusive campus for all.”
Featured Image: Marie Mount Hall, where the UMD Senate office are located, on Oct. 31, 2022. Photo by Maya Patel.