The Key, December 2023 Edition

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

DECEMBER 2023

A newsletter for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends

Flying high, soaring higher UMES recognizes the achievements of new graduates at 2023 winter commencement It was a roller coaster of emotions for Sophia Cruzado on the morning of Dec. 16.

For Cruzado, a Beltsville, Md. native, it was an exciting time for her and her family as the first-generation college student at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore was receiving her bachelor’s degree in biology.

Sophia Cruzado But there was also a bit of nerves as she was selected to give the student commentary for the 26th winter commencement ceremony. But she pushed through those nerves with a statement that epitomized the journey she and her peers took to arrive at the momentous occasion.

“We found ourselves facing obstacles, including a global pandemic but still found a way for us to all be gathered here, not just as individuals, but as a collective force of resilience and dedication pursuing our dreams against all odds that are constantly placed upon us,” she said. “We are a family that took a chance, as a union, to dream beyond the limitations set.”

Cruzado was one of 163 students awarded bachelor, master’s, and doctoral degrees from UMES at the William P. Hytche Athletic Center.

Ebony Jenkins completed her journey of being a triple graduate from the institution as she received her doctorate in food and agricultural science.

Jenkins, whose research on edible insects was featured on the PBS series “NOVA”, said her decision to study insects as a food source was a personal Ebony Jenkins one.

“My son suffers from asthma and allergies,” she said. “So, when I found out that honey, specifically locally sourced honey, could combat asthma and allergies, I knew I had to cast my fears aside in order to push forward and work with insects.”

Jenkins, who plans to create her own business focusing on insects as a renewable food source, said while her goal wasn’t what she initially envisioned, she is glad she followed this path.

“If an opportunity is given to you, try it,” she said. “You never know if you might like it. Sometimes, you might end up liking it better than your original plan.”

For Abdul-Hakeem Kargbo, who received his bachelor of science in rehabilitation psychology, commencement was a bittersweet moment.

Following in the footsteps of his brother Hamza, who graduated in 2021, Abdul-Hakeem wanted to emulate his parents — who are nurses — in helping others. He’s also been a presence in both the “Thunderin’ Hawks” pep band, and the gospel choir.

Dawrae Gibbons of Salisbury worked in law enforcement before deciding to major in English at UMES. Originally from Bermuda, Gibbons made an impact in the Department of English and Modern Languages, becoming a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Sigma Tau Delta, the English Honor Society, and working in UMES’s writing center.

“My biggest accomplishment was proving to myself that I could do this,” said Gibbons, who wants to teach college-level English one day. “I’m an international student and not your typical student because I decided to come back to school later in life.”

Cruzado, who incorporated Spanish into her speech to honor her family and other Spanish speakers in the audience, closed her oration with the message that having faith in oneself can bring the desired result.

“Today we are not just graduates, we are also dreamers who took a chance and found a home away from home that took a chance on us,” she said. “Today, we are proof that dreams do come true, and that hard work pays off.”

Allen J. Singleton, a 1959 alumnus, also received an honorary doctorate degree of humane letters. He credited then Maryland State College and business educator Dr. Vernon W. Stone for their roles in propelling him towards success.

Dr. Adel Karara, a professor of pharmaceutical sciences, was recognized with Allen J. Singleton the honor of Professor Emeritus.

IN THIS ISSUE

PAGE 2 Jevon Brooks

PAGE 3 School News

PAGE 4 Devon Kramer

PAGE 5

Esraa Alhassan

PAGES 6-7

Commencement Photos

PAGE 8 Cidnee Boykin

PAGE 9

Building Ground Breaking

PAGE 10 Vet School

PAGE 11 Athletics

PAGE 12 Happy Holidays

2 THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023

JEVON BROOKS

A future engineered by the UMES experience Class of 2023 graduate pursues career in engineering In the new year, Jevon Brooks, of Bowie, Md., will commute closer to home for his position as an associate computer engineer with Northrup Grumman in Baltimore, Md. after receiving his bachelor of science degree in engineering (concentration: computers) during the Dec. 16 winter commencement ceremony. Although the distance between home and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore was “not too far, but just far enough,” Brooks credits the UMES admissions team with helping him decide to become a Hawk. “I have to credit the amazing admissions team. They were calling me all the time.”

Overcoming some personal challenges during his time at UMES, Brooks says “I developed my character. You can’t compare yourself to other people. Everyone’s path is different.”

“In regard to growth, it comes down to persistence and consistency. Having those successes and failures has inspired me,” he said.

Brooks recognized Dr. Payam Matin (Engineering), Dr. Alvernon Walker (Engineering), Dr. Russell Kohl (Mathematics), and Dr. Lei Zheng (Engineering) as educators who have greatly impacted him during his time at UMES. “He is definitely one of those professional people I want grow up to be based on my career. There is always something new that I learned in his class. He brings back foundational things that you may have forgotten. He is a good teacher,” Brooks said about Matin.

“When you take time to talk with the professors you get to see from where their knowledge comes. You see why they have that doctorate degree or master’s degree,” he said regarding Walker and core concepts in engineering.

“I have to give a shout out to Dr. Kohl. Dr. Russel Kohl is one of the best math teachers I’ve ever had,” he said regarding calculus and statistics lessons.

“He gave me a lot of constructive criticism. It goes without saying that he wants to make sure that when I am out of UMES that I put my best foot forward in the engineering industry,” he said bout Zheng.

“Jevon is an exemplary student that the engineering pro-

gram at UMES produces. Our program prepares many students like Jevon to be ready for taking on challenges in today’s technology revolution and to become future leaders in our society,” said Dr. Yuanwei Jin (Professor and Chairperson for the Department of Engineering) on Brooks success.

Brooks had the following advice for those considering UMES for their educational pursuits: “Take advantage of the opportunities UMES gives you.

Go to the conferences.”

“Always speak up.”

“Don’t let the idea of failure stop you.”

SCHOOL NEWS

THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023 3

STEM STARS Holiday Reception

The inaugural cohort of the STEM STARS (Students Achieving Results in Science) program celebrated the holiday season during a reception Dec. 6. The end of the student’s first semester came quickly as they have been busy with projects and milestones. Amaris Cary worked on a group honors project about invasive plant species. Lena Spiller had her first solo flight lesson in November. Qureyin Wilkinson, Victoria Casteel and Gilbert Pinkett are involved in some faculty-led research projects focusing on animal bone declassification (diseases stemming from bone abnormalities), cancer cells in mice in relation to glycolysis, and how liquid reacts in free-fall environment (non-gravity space) by sending a payload into space, respectively.

Nine UMES Honors Program graduates received honors medals for their rigorous coursework & matriculation at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Dec. 15.

The students received their bachelor’s degrees during commencement Dec. 16. Their accomplishments include obtaining their private professional pilot certification (Heinz), research on understanding brain tumors and pursuing career as a physician assistant (Puwo Tameko), and starting a career with Lockheed Martin (Smith).

Top Row (L-R): Yazmyn Stewart, Leeyah Hyppolite, Ray’Sean Smith; Middle Row (L-R): Jenny-Joe Puwo Tameko, Braydan Graham, Abigail Heinz Bottom Row (LR): Ragina White, Honors Program Director Dr. Michael Lane, Doria Wheeler, & Jadaya Strand (not pictured) Seated: Maryland State College Alumni Tony-nominated Theater & Film Actress Dr. Starletta DuPois (MSC ’68) & Dr. Allen Singleton (MSC ‘59)

The STEM STARS program is made possible by $2.5 million grant (dispersed over six years) from Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). The University of Maryland Eastern Shore is one of six universities and the first Historically Black University to receive the award.

Standing (L-R): Amaris Cary, Dr. Robert Mock (Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff), Gilbert Pinkett, Makai Martin, Paul Foster, Emmanuel Johnson III, and Dr. Tiara Cornelius (Executive Director of the STEM STARS program & Chairperson and an Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics).

Seated (L-R): President Heidi M. Anderson, Alleyah Britton, Victoria Casteel, Qureyin Wilkinson, Lena Spiller, and Dr. Jonathan Cumming (Member of leadership team for STEM STARS program & Chairperson and Professor, Department of Natural Sciences).

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore surpassed its goal of $31,886, receiving $33,858 from generous donors on Giving Tuesday Nov. 28. Thank you for your generous support and commitment to helping UMES students “Soar Above and Beyond.”

4 THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023

DEVON KRAMER

Soaring and Serving: UMES graduate pursuing hospitality passion Hospitality and tourism major urges students to pursue scholarships

Devon Kramer exemplified hard work and dedication throughout her journey as a University of Maryland Eastern Shore student. Graduating high school at 16, transferring from Wor-Wic Community College to UMES’ hospitality and tourism management program, and working throughout her three and a half years (includes roles with Sodexo and in catering operations at the Ocean City Convention Center) as an undergraduate has culminated in her current position as an accountant and administrative assistant with CP Cases, Inc. in Delaware. The company creates custom cases for specific items or equipment that requires that level of protection ranging from electrical, healthcare, and military equipment.

The Ocean City, Md. native made her way to UMES to pursue a career in hospitality and tourism management at the recommendation of her then mentor and community college advisor Dr. George Ojie-Ahamioje, who is currently an associate professor at UMES. Her desire to pursue a career in hospitality stems from her love of food and beverage, cooking with her mom, and her family’s pursuit of opening a hotel in El Salvador. Although that goal wasn’t realized, the experience ignited Kramer’s passion for going into the hospitality industry and provided her with the experience of living abroad and being bilingual.

“Devon is a dedicated student with the spirit to serve and lead. Whenever she’s been called to serve, she does it with pride. Based on her academic achievements. I was proud to have inducted her into Eta Sigma Delta (International Hospitality Honor Society). She would be a dedicated professional in the hospitality industry because she has the attitude, and answers the call to service as a badge of honor,” Ojie-Ahamioje said.

“Dr. Ojie-Ahamioje really helped me save a lot of time and money with telling me about UMES,” she said. Kramer advises other students to “put the effort in to get scholarships because it really helps.”

“I will have my associate’s degree from Wor-Wic Community College and my bachelor’s degree from UMES debt free,” said Kramer.

“I met some phenomenal professors in the program who did a lot to give us access to programs and trips. I think they fostered a really great environment and they helped me a lot along my path,” Kramer said about her UMES experience.

Kramer crossed the stage to receive her bachelor of science degree Dec. 16 during UMES’ winter commencement ceremony.

(L-R) Author, businesswoman, & widow of the late Frank Perdue (Perdue Farms) Mitzi Perdue and Devon Kramer.

Kramer (center) was hired by Mitzi Perdue to work among the hospitality staff during a special Nov. 8 dinner event at Perdue’s home, which raised money for landmine clearing in the Ukraine.

ESRAA ALHASSAN

THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023 5

From the Sudan to Egypt to Texas to the Eastern Shore Graduating senior’s journey leads to place she feels “at home” When Esraa Alhassan arrived at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in the spring of 2022, it was her most recent stop in a journey that began across the globe.

Growing up in the Sudan, Esraa then moved to Egypt, before later immigrating to the United States with her family at age 19 and earning her associate of science degree.

Each locale had an impact in leading her to where she is right now, graduating with a bachelor of science in biology with a 4.0 GPA. “Making the move away from my parents was very difficult, but I had goals I wanted to meet I knew this university was going to help me get where I wanted,” she said.

Alhassan’s interest in medicine, began with “a series of events” in the Sudan, starting with the loss of her grandmother due to multi-system organ failure, a failure that began with a kidney infection.

“I was so curious about how that something like a kidney infection developed into that so quickly,” she said. “Unfortunately, the healthcare system and the equipment in the Sudan is not the best, especially in the rural areas.”

Alhassan then moved to Egypt, and attended the Ain Shams University’s School of Pharmacy, where she graduated in 2018.

During her and her family’s transition to the United States, Esraa played the role of interpreter for her family, helping them navigate our complex healthcare system in order to enhance their well-being.

“It was a little bit tough in the very beginning,” she said.

“I got weird looks and mean comments about my English as it was not perfect, it was a struggle. It just forced me to grow very thick skin.”

Those experiences prepared her to excel upon her arrival at UMES. Alhassan became involved with a number of organizations, including becoming vice president of the Biology Society and helping children develop mathematics skills as a member of the Y.E.E.S W.E. C.A.N program.

She attributes her successes to the mentorship provided by her professors, including Natural Sciences Department chair Dr. Jonathan Cumming, who she made an instant con-

nection with, and Dr. Eric May, who she has worked with on several research projects identifying and characterizing bacteria of bodies of water in Ocean City.

“If it wasn’t for people like Dr. Cumming, Dr. May, and others, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” she said. “They were guiding us to being not only better students, but better people as well. That’s what really sets UMES apart.”

Alhassan said while she hasn’t yet decided what medical field to pursue. She has an interest in neurology but her ultimate goal is to be in a position to help others who have had similar journeys.

“Hopefully, one day I can help improve the healthcare system in the Sudan,” she said. “I want to give back to my people and those immigrant patients who are going through what I went through.”

COMMENCEMENT

6 THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023

WINTER COMME Sophia Cruzado, the student commentary speaker, earned her bachelor of science degree in biology. Cruzado delivered a bilingual message of inspiration and she plans to pursue a career in dentistry.

Captured in a proud moment with President Heidi M. Anderson, Michael Amo (engineering) accepted a software engineering position with Lockheed Martin. Congratulations!

Vernajh Pinder (left), Rahjane Wheeler, and Gabrielle Pinto (far right) are now two-time UMES alumni receiving their master of education degrees Dec. 16.

Jarrilyn Peralta is one of the firstgeneration college graduates to matriculate at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. She earned her bachelor of science degree in rehabilitation psychology.

COMMENCEMENT

THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023 7

ENCEMENT 2023 Commencement was a family event for brothers Isaiah Nance, at left, (master of science, food & agriculture science) and Xavier Nance (bachelor of science business administration) who are pictured with their father Reginald Nance.

Pictured with his nephew James and niece Deborah during the President’s luncheon Dec. 16.

Dawrae Gibbons of Bermuda, earned her bachelor of arts degree in english.

Dr. Singleton and fellow Maryland State College Alumni Charles Laws (’59) and Dorothy Wood Fall (’58) celebrate the momentous occasion in UMES’ Allen Singleton Multipurpose Room.

Braydan Graham of Seaford, Del. earned his bachelor of science degree in environmental science. He looks forward to pursuing a career as a officer in a branch of the U.S. Military.

Dr. Allen Singleton, a 1959 alumnus of then Maryland State College, was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. The 93-year-old was recognized for his many years of service and dedication as an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. “I fell in love with this institution when I first came here in 1951. I do what I can for this institution because it first loved me,” he said. Singleton acknowledged Dr. Vernon W. Stone who helped him with a financial obstacle ($200 in the 1950’s) during his education that he repaid during his first teaching position and has repaid many times over in the numerous lives that he continues to touch. Thank you for your embodiment of the university motto “deeds not words” through your constant service and dedication. Congratulations Dr. Singleton!

8 THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023

CIDNEE BOYKIN

“Counseling isn’t merely a profession but a passionate commitment for me”

By Cidnee Boykin

I found my path toward a master’s in rehabilitation counseling driven by a desire to spark change in the lives around me. My journey began with a bachelor’s in child and adolescent studies from Bowie State University. After teaching first grade for two years, I realized my aspiration to make a broader impact on people’s lives. This realization led me to Rehabilitation Counseling, where the power of counseling to forge empowering relationships reso-

nated deeply with me.

Counseling, to me, embodies the capacity to foster connections that empower diverse individuals to enhance their mental well-being, achieve their aspirations, and foster personal growth. These attributes, integral to a counselor’s role, are values I cherish dearly. Counseling isn’t merely a profession but a passionate commitment for me. The joy of aiding others and being part of their transformative journey fills my heart with warmth and purpose.

My time at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore has been nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout my journey in the program, I’ve accumulated invaluable knowledge, access to resources, job prospects, meaningful connections, and enduring friendships. The impact on my life and aspirations has been profound, all thanks to the guidance and expertise of my professors.

Their wisdom and mentorship have been instrumental, guiding me through every phase of the program, refining my skills, expanding my knowledge, and preparing me comprehensively for the counseling profession. Choosing UMES was deliberate; it stands as one of the select HBCUs offering a master’s in counseling. The significance of representation in education cannot be overstated. For me, it was pivotal to

pursue higher education at an HBCU and to be part of a community where representation matters deeply. Being here has reinforced the belief that quality education is not just attainable but flourishes within the nurturing environment of an HBCU. It’s about setting a precedent, showing others that they too can receive an exceptional education, and forging enduring bonds with professors and peers, making a lasting impact. For anyone considering entering this field, my advice is simple: dive in headfirst. Whatever your aspirations may be, throw yourself into them with full dedication. Trust that by fully immersing yourself in this program, you’ll emerge not just as a graduate but as a transformed individual—a more adept leader, a seasoned counselor, and someone ready to guide the future generation.

The key to success in anything is wholehearted commitment. Embrace this journey, absorb all it offers, and believe that you have the capacity to emerge stronger, more knowledgeable, and thoroughly equipped to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

In reflection, I’m profoundly grateful for the divine guidance that led me to this remarkable point in my life. I firmly believe that every step I’ve taken has been orchestrated by God, crafting an unforgettable chapter in my life. It’s crystal clear that without this master’s program, my path would not have aligned as it has today. This experience has been pivotal, shaping me into the person I am now and arming me with the skills and knowledge essential for the goals I aspire to achieve. With absolute certainty, I acknowledge that the University of Maryland Eastern Shore has been the cornerstone of my growth and preparation for the endeavors that lie ahead. I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to this program for shaping my present and paving the way for my future accomplishments.

Boykin completed her rehabilitation counseling internship with Chesapeake Healthcare in Salisbury, Md. The Upper Marlboro, Md. native earned her master of science degree in rehabilitation counseling Dec. 16.

BUILDING GROUNDBREAKING

THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023 9

UMES breaks ground on agricultural research building Helping support agribusiness throughout Maryland and beyond

Ceremonial shovels broke ground Nov. 30, paving the way for the start of construction for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s new Agricultural Research & Education Center. The facility is expected to enhance delivery of research, extension and teaching programs in agriculture at the university. It is designed to support agribusiness and other economic development activities in the state, particularly on the Eastern Shore.

“This new center will provide modern research and education space to allow faculty and students to conduct 21st-century science to serve our clientele in an efficient and more effective manner,” said Dr. Moses T. Kairo, dean of the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences.

The project is supported in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the Maryland Legislature.

“Agriculture is a key driver of the Eastern Shore’s economy – and we rely on our farmers, growers and producers to help feed the region and the country. To support their efforts, UMES has long worked to keep Maryland at the forefront of agricultural innovation. That’s why we fought to secure more than $9 million in federal investments for the construction of this new education and research center that will prepare a diverse pipeline of students with the tools to lead the next generation of agribusiness,” said U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), a member of the Appropriations Committee.

The building, in the planning stages since 2013, weathered uncertainty when post-pandemic market conditions in the construction industry rose.

Plans for the 25,231-square-foot agricultural facility include specialized research laboratories along with traditional classrooms, conference rooms and faculty offices. The design also includes offices and support space for agricultural extension services, including six greenhouses comprising 7,500 square feet.

“By supporting our undergraduate programs in agriculture, the building will provide space and technology for educational experiences, allowing UMES students and the community the opportunity to support the future of the agri-

culture industry,” said UMES President Heidi M. Anderson.

Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, the USDA under secretary for Research, Education and Economics, delivered the keynote address.

The project emphasizes UMES’ mission as a land-grant institution, Kairo said. Founded originally for the establishment and support of agriculture experiment stations to advance research in farming, ranching and food production, an additional focus is now on the triumvirate areas of agricultural research, teaching and extension.

The building will be located at the corner of College Backbone Road and John Wilson Lane.

By Gail Stephens / Photos: Todd Dudek Photo: From left: Alissa Hastings representing U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (D-MD); Bill Reddish representing U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD 1st District); LeeAnn Linton representing Danny Thompson, executive director for Somerset County Economic Development; Owen Johnson, UMES Board of Visitors; Anastasia Rodriguez, UMES vice president for finance and administration; Dr. Moses T. Kairo, dean of UMES’ School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences; Dr. Heidi M. Anderson, UMES president; Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, the USDA under secretary for Research, Education and Economics/Chief Scientist; Mary Beth Carozza (R-District 38) Maryland State Senate; Charles Otto (R-District 38A) Maryland House of Delegates; Wayne Hartman (R-District 38C) Maryland House of Delegates; Rob Jadick, vice president of Bancroft Construction; Eric Butler, senior project manager with Bancroft Construction; and Marvin Kemp with Design Collective.

10 THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023

VET SCHOOL

UMES responds to national vet shortage with new School “This new HBCU vet school aims to help move the needle in the right direction”

By Gail Stephens

A new School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore is becoming a reality. The USM Board of Regents approved the program Dec. 15 that will be the second veterinary school across the nation’s HBCUs. When the first anticipated students are accepted in fall 2026, it will also be Maryland’s first stand-alone program.

“Our new veterinary medicine school will help UMES fill an unmet need on the Eastern Shore and throughout the state,” said UMES President Dr. Heidi M. Anderson. “Deeply rooted in our 1890 land-grant mission, this program will enable us to serve farmers, the food industry and the 50% of Marylanders who own a pet. It will also increase both the diversity of the profession and address the workforce needs of the industry. We’re deeply grateful to the Maryland Board of Regents and for the widespread support this program has garnered.”

The timing could not be more appropriate, according to UMES’ Dean of the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences Dr. Moses T. Kairo.

“In terms of demand based on labor statistics, we are looking at 19% projected growth in the field over the next seven years,” Kairo said. “Black veterinarians make up only 3% of the population in this country, indicating a tremendous need to diversify the profession.”

Compared to traditional four-year programs, the proposed program calls for three-year completion. This will allow UMES veterinary students to learn the same critical components found in existing programs but more expeditiously.

“Our goal is to use student time more effectively in order to graduate students a year earlier,” he said.

The program has been approved by the USM Board of Regents and final approval by the Maryland Higher Education Commission is expected shortly.

A consultative visit from the American Veterinary Medicine Association-Council on Education is expected in the latter part of 2024.

The university is proceeding with advocacy, fundraising and planning for infrastructural developments. Dr. Kimberly Braxton, an assistant professor and veterinarian at UMES, will serve as the interim founding dean until a search for a permanent dean next year.

Braxton (UMES ’07) has served as the pre-veterinary faculty advisor for the past five years, having started her career at UMES in 2018. She is also the IACUC attending veterinarian.

Braxton said it has been a “collective unified front” advocating for the opportunity to help fill an ever-increasing demand for veterinarians on the Eastern Shore and throughout the state, partic-

ularly those of color. The state’s only veterinary program to date is the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, stemming from a land-grant partnership between the two universities.

“The current number of veterinary schools cannot keep up with the increase in demand for veterinarians to handle the national shortage,” Braxton said. “We have to be open to different styles of teaching this next generation of professionals. This new HBCU vet school aims to help move the needle in the right direction.”

Representation and inclusion, she said, are fundamental tools needed to resolve the shortage.

“Today’s students, particularly underserved, become passionate about a career because they see someone that look likes them in that profession being successful,” Braxton said. “If they choose to remain in the state to practice veterinary medicine, all the better.”

“UMES having a vet school would make me feel more confident about my future graduate school and career goals,” said Kaila Tyree-Castro, a second-year UMES pre-vet student from Prince George’s County. “It would provide a comfortable environment not having to move far from home and being able to stay connected to the HBCU community.”

AT H L E T I C S

THE KEY | DECEMBER 2023 11

UMES names Aaron Robinson as new head softball coach The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has named Aaron Robinson as the softball program’s new head coach.

“This is a tremendous opportunity and a great place to be,” Robinson says. “I am looking forward to working with our student-athletes, developing our team chemistry and establishing a positive culture of success on and off the field.”

Robinson comes to UMES with coaching and player development experience on the college, high school and youth levels which includes stops at Notre Dame of Maryland University and Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School.

“We enthusiastically welcome Coach Robinson to the UMES community and look forward to his leadership of Hawk softball,” says UMES Vice President of Athletics Tara A. Owens. “Coach Robinson has an unquestioned work ethic. He comes to the program with a great vision and plan to position our student-athletes to be successful on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.”

Serving as the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator at NDMU for two seasons, Robinson recruited the program’s largest class ever, helped lead the Gators to its most wins in a single season, developed five All-CSAC Conference selections. Under his tutelage, the team’s offense improved as batting average increased from .236 in 2020 to .306 in 2022 and .311 in 2023. The program’s OPS improved each season as well going from .568 in 2020 to .722 2022 and .786 last season. NDMU also improved in the categories of runs, hits, homeruns, runs batted in, stolen bases and total bases each year.

Robinson’s teams showed similar improved while he was head coaching at Bethesda-Chevy Chase. While coaching the high school for two seasons, the team had five All-Conference First Team selections, six All-Conference Second Team selections and three All-Conference Honorable Mentions. The team improved statistically in batting average go-

ing from .291 to .308. The other areas of improvement under Robinson included on base percentage, slugging percentage, hits, runs batted in, run, and stolen bases.

In addition to his college and high school coaching experience, Robinson has been the head coach the Virginia Glory which is an 18 and under fastpitch program. He also spent one season serving as the Athletic Director and head softball coach at Welborn Academy of Science & Technology. Robinson also directs the Greatness Leadership Hardwork LLC which is modeled to serve as a growth-centered skill and mental sports training organization, offering a wide range of training programs for individual athletes, small groups, and teams in the Baltimore area.

Attending Calvert Hall College High School in Towson, Maryland, Robinson went on to Frostburg State University where he was a member of the basketball program. He went on to attend Towson University and earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2010. In 2017, Robinson earned his master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Baltimore.

Robinson is certified as a C.U.D.I.T. Concentric Hitting Instructor and is a member of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association.

Robinson takes over a Hawks softball program that went 14-30 overall last season with an 8-10 record in MEAC competition.

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ON BEHALF OF THE HAWK FAMILY & PRESIDENT HEIDI M. ANDERSON

We wish you and yours the best this holiday season and in the New Year.

The Key / December 2023

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