2018
SCHOLAR LIFE
1
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND INCENTIVE AWARDS PROGRAM Shortly after former President C. D. Mote Jr. began his tenure at the University of Maryland in 1998, he noticed an alarming trend: Few students from Baltimore City public high schools applied to and subsequently enrolled at the state’s flagship university. Of particular concern was the fact that the overwhelming majority of the students who did came from three city high schools: Baltimore City College, Baltimore Polytechnic and Western. There was little or no representation from the other high schools in the city. 2
Mote had encountered a similar situation when serving as vice chancellor for university relations at the University of California, Berkeley. Berkeley initiated a highly successful program aimed at students from underrepresented areas. Indeed, it was a program for which he raised $22 million. In 2000, Maryland created a program based on the Berkeley model. The University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program is designed to recognize and promote scholarship, leadership and community
responsibility among students from select high schools, and to make it financially possible to enroll at the University of Maryland. The program identifies and selects students who have demonstrated uncommon persistence, ingenuity and maturity by maintaining good academic performance in the face of challenging circumstances. Launched as a pilot program in Baltimore, the program expanded to select schools in Prince George’s County in 2006. A generous gift in 2012 allowed further expansion to KIPP public charter schools in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Each student has been awarded financial support for four years and will benefit from a strong, nurturing community of advisors, mentors and administrative staff while at Maryland. The program is not defined by its scholarship component, however. The distinguishing characteristic is its focus on developing character, critical thinking skills and leadership in the context of an intimate community of peers. This “community within a community” is what sustains students and challenges them to develop the skills that will benefit them and their hometowns. In addition to the advising network, the camaraderie provided by the peer group encourages students to persist. Students have been empowered to assume leadership roles within the group and exercise autonomy in planning social and community-building activities. They are encouraged to shape the culture of the group, with each new cohort making its unique impression on the community. The University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program values a spirit of reciprocity.
Scholars embrace this spirit by maintaining strong ties to their home and school communities, regularly returning to their high schools to serve as role models for younger students. Throughout the year, they engage their peers in discussions, sharing with them their own Maryland experiences and the importance of proper academic preparation for college. The intent is for their success—attained through hard work—to be an incentive for others to persist toward high school graduation, pursue higher education and achieve in the face of adversity. Eighteen years after the program’s inception, the university’s commitment continues under the leadership of President Wallace Loh. “The Incentive Awards Program is a vital part of the University of Maryland, providing opportunities for some of the state’s most talented and dedicated students to excel academically and professionally,” he says. “Ultimately these students give back to their communities, inspiring another generation of high-achieving leaders. The combination of service and achievement is what makes this program so exceptional.” As students graduate and the alumni base continues to grow, the positive impact will be even more profound on the communities that these students call home. Throughout all future endeavors, they will hone those skills nurtured through the University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program and use them in every aspect of their lives.
3
4
5 CLASS OF 2021
CLASS OF 2022
SCHOOL PARTNERS At every participating high school, at least one staff person assists the University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program with its outreach efforts and the nomination and selection processes. These individuals are committed to helping students realize their dreams of a college education and have proven to be invaluable partners in the success of the program. We wholeheartedly thank them for their support.
6
INTRODUCING
THE CLASS OF 2022 Another cadre of outstanding high school students has been selected to participate in the University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program, designed to recognize and promote academic excellence and leadership among exceptional students from our partner high schools. In this, the 18th year of the program, we are proud to welcome this new cohort of scholars.
Christopher Acha
Elias Kallon
Academy of Health Sciences at Prince George's Community College
Eleanor Roosevelt High School
Ayomide Awobajo
Gabrielle-Demi Morris Eleanor Roosevelt High School
Bowie High School
Jemar Burden
Ogheneruro Odedoyin Baltimore Polytechnic Institute
Baltimore City College
Elian Contreras
Ashley PeĂąa Digital Harbor High School
Northwestern High School
Brian Escobar
Jayme Savoy Paul Laurence Dunbar High School
Northwestern High School
Alma Hernandez
Thomasina Smith Fairmont Heights High School
High Point High School
Kira Isbert
Brian Spates Bowie High School
Baltimore Polytechnic Institute
7
Christopher Acha ACADEMY OF HEALTH SCIENCES AT PRINCE GEORGE’S COMMUNITY COLLEGE SPECIAL HONOR: Gemstone Honors Program PEOPLE SAY: “Chris is an outstanding student both in and out of the classroom, as exemplified by his excellent grades and noteworthy (and long) devotion to research and community service. He is the one student who has made an impression on professors, counselors and mentors with his hard work ethic, insightful and challenging questions, wit and enthusiasm. Chris is in the top 1% of all undergraduate students I ever met and the top high school student I have mentored.”
8
Ayomide Awobajo BOWIE HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL HONOR: First-Year Innovation and Research Experience (FIRE) PEOPLE SAY: “Ayomide’s character comes through in everything he does. He approaches both academics and extracurricular activities with an equal balance of prowess and determination. In the classroom, he is the type of student every teacher yearns to have: perceptive, thoughtful, diligent and eager to learn more. I consider myself quite lucky to have had the opportunity to work with such a bright and talented young man.”
9
Jemar Burden BALTIMORE CITY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL PEOPLE SAY: “Through class participation, a willingness to learn, and most importantly, his attitude, Jemar has influenced his peers in a positive way. His commitment to his education is evident in the quality of his work; it is obvious that he spends a lot of time and effort on his assigned tasks. Jemar works well in a cooperative group setting and will benefit from and be supported by the students in the Incentive Awards Program.�
10
Elian Contreras NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL PEOPLE SAY: “When I met Elian in my class, he demonstrated the ability to clearly articulate his thoughts, and always took on the role of a leader in any group he worked in. It was such a pleasure to meet a young man who was confident in his abilities and had a strong work ethic. He is constantly striving to be the best he can be.�
11
Brian Escobar NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL PEOPLE SAY: “Brian always demonstrated a level of analysis and understanding that only the top students reach. His work is always impeccable, and he brings a positive energy everywhere he goes. Words cannot express how proud I am of him and how much I admire his work ethic. He is constantly working on one project or another, and trying to make his world a better place to live.�
12
Alma Hernandez HIGH POINT HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL HONOR: First-Year Innovation and Research Experience (FIRE) PEOPLE SAY: “Alma is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated and focused in her pursuits. She consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student. Alma is truly a standout individual who will impress everyone she meets. I am certain that she is going to continue to do great and creative things.�
13
Kira Isbert BALTIMORE POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE SPECIAL HONOR: Carillon Communities PEOPLE SAY: “Kira exhibits an exceptional work ethic, persistence and commitment to her studies. Naturally empathetic and a great listener, she can be counted on to lend a hand to students in need. Kira is truly excited for college and intends to take full advantage of all the opportunities that await her. I am confident in her readiness, motivation and great potential for success.�
14
Elias Kallon ELEANOR ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL HONOR: Honors College PEOPLE SAY: “Elias was without a doubt one of the best students that I have had the opportunity to teach. He has demonstrated a high level of engagement and determination as well as a willingness to push himself. Elias is always trying to better himself in any task or challenge he takes on. He also demonstrates at all times a maturity and a sense of ethics that I find remarkable.�
15
Gabrielle-Demi Morris ELEANOR ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL HONOR: College Park Scholars PEOPLE SAY: “Demi went through a highly rigorous intern selection process to be in our school’s internship program. She is highly dedicated, responsible and trustworthy. She is persistent, pays attention to details and takes initiative to solve problems and to help others. In addition to her academic success, Demi is also a kind, caring, considerate and wellrounded young lady.”
16
Ogheneruro Odedoyin BALTIMORE POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE PEOPLE SAY: “Ogheneruro (Ruro) is a bright, friendly and respectful young man. He is a founding leader of Poly’s I.T. club and valued member of our school community. An inquisitive student with a highly engaging personality, Ruro has a passion for learning. His determination served him well at Poly and has put him on solid footing for a strong transition to college.”
17
Ashley Peña DIGITAL HARBOR HIGH SCHOOL PEOPLE SAY: “Ashley is a respectful, responsible, motivated student and friend who supports others in and out of the classroom. She was a pleasure to have in class, and her positive attitude and belief in herself, even in the face of difficulty, are immensely admirable assets. At Maryland, I'm confident that she will continue to demonstrate the same diligence, perseverance and optimism that she showed her peers in high school.”
18
Jayme Savoy PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL HONOR: Gemstone Honors Program PEOPLE SAY: “Jayme is one of the most exceptional students that I have encountered in my years of teaching. She is a very talented, intelligent student with charisma, confidence and strong values. Jayme possesses a profound love for learning and is always eager to share her knowledge with others. Personally, she is always willing to evolve and grow, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well not only at Maryland, but throughout her life.�
19
Thomasina Smith FAIRMONT HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL PEOPLE SAY: “Thomasina Smith inspires me every day to be the best that I can be as her AP literature teacher. She is very diligent and fastidious about her work and her drive and tenacity is unmatched by any students I have ever taught. She has never ceased to amaze me with her ability to rise to the demanding academic challenges that ultimately help her to learn and grow as a scholar.�
20
Brian Spates BOWIE HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL HONOR: Global Communities PEOPLE SAY: “Brian is one of the brightest students I’ve ever seen in 23 years of youth ministry. He is studious and capable, and has added to that a fearless, ‘head- on’ mentality that he tackles all of his tasks with. I can’t wait to see how that will translate into his college years, where I expect that he’ll distinguish himself.”
21
INCENTIVE AWARDS PROGRAM 2018 GRADUATING SENIORS
NELSON ARANAVASQUEZ Economics Mentor Brandon Clark, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
DAVID EGBUFOAMA Public Health Science Mentor Robert Infantino, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences
22
DOROTHY BUI
PRAISE CARSON
Community Health Mentor Ann Smith, Office of Undergraduate Studies
Family Science
ALLEXXUS FARLEYTHOMAS
JUAN HERRERA
Architecture Mentor Mary Hummel, Division of Student Affairs
Minor: Black Women’s Studies and Business: Innovation and Entrepreneurship Mentor Tiara Lowe, College of Arts and Humanities
Journalism Mentor Joshua Madden, Philip Merrill College of Journalism
SABRINA CHRISTIAN
JORDAN DANTZLER
Sociology Mentor T.C. Lloyd, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Mechanical Engineering Mentor Nina Harris, School of Public Policy
CYNTHIA KEARNS Biology Mentor Kecia Hansard, Robert H. Smith School of Business; Robert Infantino, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences
QUINN KELLY Astronomy and Physics Mentor Ebony Terrell Shockley, College of Education
CHUKWUMA ODIGWE
DJELLZA RAMADANI
LADEJA ROBINSON
ZALANDRIA SPANN
YONAS WOLDEAB
Electrical Engineering Mentor Tony Randall, Division of Student Affairs
Sociology Mentor T.C. Lloyd, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Bioengineering Mentor Deborah Reid Bryant, Letters and Sciences
Accounting and Finance Mentor Melanie Ashton, Robert H. Smith School of Business
Biochemistry Mentor Robert Infantino, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences
2018 SELECTION COMMITTEE
Rahn V. Barnes Healthy Neighborhoods
D. Stuart Bowers ‘81 DST Brokerage Solutions
Beatrice Key ‘88, CPA Key & Associates
Jonathan Barrett ‘87 Verizon
Michael F. Canning Sr. ‘61 Manis Canning & Associates
Pranav Saha ‘02 Booz Allen Hamilton Inc.
Christie Bianco ‘97 Suitcase Swagger
Sheila D. Jones, Esq. ‘74 Law Office of Sheila D. Jones
Robert B. Schaftel ‘62 Riggs, Counselman, Michaels & Downs Inc.
Gloria Aparicio Blackwell ‘92 University of Maryland
Gary L. Kaplan ‘94 Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP
Rodney Washington ‘87 U.S. Department of the Treasury
ADVISORY BOARD
Chuck Daggs ‘69 KIPP Bay Area Schools Barbara Gill ‘85 University of Maryland Barry Gossett The Gossett Group
Dan Millman ‘84 Chairman Turner Impact Capital LLC C.D. Mote Jr. Honorary Chairman National Academy of Engineering University of Maryland
J. Keith Scroggins ‘79 Baltimore City Public Schools Craig Thompson ‘92, Esq. Venable LLP
23
TO OUR DONORS It is the power of education and the contributions of many that will help transform students’ lives and secure the future of the University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program. We are grateful to the friends who have joined with us to make this life-changing opportunity for our students a reality through named scholarships and other support. Thank you.
24
Rosalyn E. Anderson-Howell Dekebra D. Arrington Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Theta Nu Chapter In Memory of Dr. Thomas Aylward Jr. Latise and Jeffrey Baker Theresa and Henry Baker Olivia L. Bankole Ann and Jonathan R. Barrett Wenona C. Belton, J.D. Dr. Emile A. Bendit Christie M. Bianco Bridget N. Blount D. Stuart Bowers Joshua S. Brown Meghan C. Butler Praise H. Carson Maragatham and Thyagaraj Chandrasekaran Sheanice R. Charles Sabrina A. Christian Darrell J. Claiborne Jonathan E. Claiborne Katherine M. Coleman Jennifer and James Congdon Charlene D. Cooper Jennifer D. Covahey Carolyn W. Crews
Grace J. Crussiah and Ralph R. Bauer Genevieve and Francis X. Cuomo Dawn M. Daggett, Ph.D. Michael S. Dana and family Kendall S. Davis Steve and Miriam Dubin David Egbufoama Beverly J. English Shelvia English Brittany M. Eshun Marlon D. Everett Adina E. Ferguson Diana S. Forbus Crystal R. Foster Jean M. Fregeau
Derrick L. Gunter Dr. Georgette H. Hardy Cheryl K. Harrison James R. Hawkins Dulce A. Hernandez Karen J. Hernandez Lauri and Rufino Hidalgo Susan and Douglas S. Hoff Lori M. Hughes Zenita and Cheo Hurley Galina and Andrey I. Ivanov Jessica O. Jackson Wendy Jamieson Sheila D. Jones, Esq. Rebecca Lynn Johnson Anulekha and Thomas G.
Meredith and William H. Frost
Kallarakal
Alecia M. Frye
Anna Kalmykov
Jonathan J. Fuentes
In Memory of Jan B. Kaplan
Renee E. Funches, M.D.
Cynthia M. Kearns
Mark A. Getchis
Jerry Kickenson and
Julia C. Gluck
Dr. Kathleen Michaels
Victoria Y. Gold
Dr. Catalina Elena Kopetz
Paul W. Goldstein
Ganiyat Lawal
Barry P. Gossett
Jacqueline W. Lee
Robyn and Leslie E. Grange
Legum Foundation, Inc.
Averi Gray
MSheila S. Leiss
Sarah H. Grebow
Mary E. Lockwood
Frances Kelley Green Fund
Rafael A. Lovo Panameno
25
Robert V. Lyda
Jennifer Santos
In Memory of Richard Higby
Noelle M. Majorczak
Dr. JV Sapinoso
Dr. Emily H. Van Zee
Henri E. Makembe
Robert B. Schaftel
Tyasia A. Velines
MDolores Martos
Donald C. Scheeler
Rodney F. Washington
Warren McKay
J. Keith Scroggins
Teri L. Weathers
MKatherine K. Medina
Carol and Martin Segal
Wanda Wheeler
France-Merrick Foundation
Elaine L. Selby, Ph.D.
Daniel I. Millman
In Memory of David and Julia Semer
Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
David R. Morris Demi Morris Dr. C.D. Mote and Patsy Mote
26
Usha R. Sharma-Charya Victoria L. Shay Maurice A. Shelton
Eileen A. Nivera
Dominic A. Smith
Jessica M. Nolasco
Graylin E. Smith
Anne M. Oh
Maiya Spell
Stephanie Sprow Owens
Rengasudharsan Srinivasan, M.S.
Robert L. Page
Carl F. Starkey
Christina M. Parrish
Dr. Cynthia K. Stevens
Randall L. Phyall
Shavonta' C. Stratton
Paul A. Pierre-Louis
Martha J. Terrell
Christopher M. Pirtle
The Shelter Foundation, Inc.
Robert J. Ratliff
Shamon Thomas-Green
Winona F. Roach
Eileen M. Thompson
Evan J. Rosenberg
Davina T. Tobin
Barbara and Elliot Rosenthal
Dr. Anthony Tocci
MJuanita Walker Russell
Pegah Touradji, Ph.D.
Pranav Saha
Quanielle J. Turner-Moore
Ajit S. Samra
Suzanne G. Valenstein
Suzanne B. Wiener Fitzgerald, MBA, CCP Dr. Alexis Y. Williams Inga Ferguson Williams and James Alexander Williams Charmaine J. Wilson-Jones Tiana D. Wynn Afia J. Yeboah Robyn and Barry Zeller
Donors from June 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018
27
28
SCHOLAR LIFE
INCENTIVE AWARDS PROGRAM SUZANNE G. AND MURRAY A. VALENSTEIN BALTIMORE INCENTIVE AWARDS PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY INCENTIVE AWARDS 1103 Cole Field House, 4090 Union Drive, College Park, MD 20742
umincentiveawards.umd.edu umincentiveawards@umd.edu facebook.com/UMIAP twitter.com/UMD_IAP instagram.com/UMD_IAP