Dear UMB Community,

The past few weeks have ushered in significant changes at the federal level, raising important questions about funding, our shared values, and the future of our work. Moments like these challenge us to adapt, think strategically, and remain steady in the face of uncertainty. While we don’t have all the answers yet, we are taking deliberate, proactive steps to stay informed, prepared, and ready to meet both the challenges and opportunities ahead. We recognize that these changes impact each of us differently, and we are committed to navigating them with transparency, collaboration, and purpose.

Since we launched the Issues Management Advisory Group (IMAG) on Jan. 27, 2025, several IMAG task forces have been created to focus on key areas affected by evolving federal policies, including Research, International Programs, and Non-Discrimination & Compliance. These groups bring together faculty, staff, students, and leadership from across the University to assess challenges, develop strategies, and provide recommendations for our community. Additionally, we are launching a new IMAG Communications Task Force today to ensure clear and effective engagement on this important topic. As part of this effort, we also are developing a website that will serve as a central hub to keep you updated on evolving policy, resources, and institutional guidance. We will provide more details about the website soon.

Additionally, we have received guidance from Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown to support navigating diversity, equity, and inclusion-related employment issues. This guidance provides practical insights for human resources teams or those supporting faculty recruitment, communications, and employment practices, and we encourage you to review it and integrate it into your work.

Uncertainty may test us, but it also reminds us of what truly anchors us — our resilience, our dedication, and our shared purpose. UMB remains a place where knowledge drives progress, innovation leads to impact, and our mission remains clear: to improve the human condition and serve the public good. That will not change. And as we look ahead, we will move forward — together.

Thank you for your continued dedication, insight, and partnership in our important work.

Sincerely,

Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS 

President