To the UMB Community: 

I appreciate those who engaged in the political process by voting, whether by sending a mail-in ballot or putting on a mask and practicing physical distancing to cast your ballot in person. As individuals we have done our part and now must continue to peacefully await the decision as states continue to count all the votes. 

As I said before this presidential election, I hope that you, as a member of the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community, remember our core values as we interact and communicate with each other, regardless of our politics. I hope you lean into our core values of civility and diversity — remembering that the differences we celebrate as a diverse community include not just differences of race, religion, nationality, gender, and sexual identity, but also of experience, opinion, and political affiliation and ideology.  

Coupled with the pandemic, the election has been a source of significant stress for many. Please know that taking care of your mental health is important, and UMB has counselors available if you feel the need to talk. Please contact the Student Counseling Center or the Employee Assistance Program to schedule an appointment.

Regardless of the outcome of the election, UMB will focus our interaction with the Trump or Biden administration on the issues that we care about most: health care access and delivery; education; innovation; social justice; and fair treatment for all. Our mission to improve the human condition and serve the public good is irrespective of the person or party in political power. 

Sincerely,

Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS 

President