Excellence in Graduate Education Committee (EGEC) Mission Statement

Mission

The mission of the SCMNS Graduate Studies is to provide innovative, practice-driven programs led by a dedicated faculty. We are committed to producing the next generation of leaders in SCMNS who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and character necessary to effect change at the community, regional, national, and international levels. As part of Maryland’s premier Urban Research University, our goal is to foster engaged citizenship, promote diversity and inclusion, and create value for society and the economy. Our graduates are prepared to navigate complexity and uncertainty, motivate and inspire teams, and use their mastery of knowledge to make a positive impact in the world.

 Vision

We envision a future where our graduates are at the forefront of innovation and transformation in the fields of CMNS. They are recognized globally for their expertise, leadership, and commitment to social and economic progress. Through their work, they have tackled some of the world's most pressing challenges, from advancing cutting-edge research to addressing issues of social justice, sustainability, and technology. They have built strong and diverse communities that thrive on collaboration, creativity, and inclusion. Our graduates are catalysts for positive change, driving solutions that benefit society and the economy for generations to come.

EGEC is committed to providing an intellectually stimulating and dynamic learning environment that promotes the success of our graduate students. Using data-driven approaches, we will continuously evaluate and enhance our graduate programs, while also developing new and innovative academic programs. We will establish structured systems for financial scholarships, recruitment, assessment, awards, and internships to ensure equitable access and opportunity for all students. Our goal is to prepare our students to address complex real-world problems by emphasizing leadership, ethics, community engagement, personal wellness, and diversity and inclusion. Through research, education, practice, and partnership, we will cultivate a culture of excellence that inspires our students to achieve their full potential and make a positive impact in their fields and communities.

Overall Objectives

1. Develop a culture of academic excellence that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among graduate students.
2. Create a supportive learning environment that promotes mentorship, collaboration, and networking among graduate students, faculty, and alumni.
3. Foster a sense of community and belonging among graduate students from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
4. Encourage graduate students to engage in research and scholarly activities that address real-world problems and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their fields.
5. Promote ethical decision-making and social responsibility among graduate students through coursework, experiential learning, and community service opportunities.
6. Equip graduate students with the skills and knowledge needed to be effective leaders in their fields and communities.
7. Provide graduate students with the resources and support needed to maintain their physical and mental well-being while pursuing their academic and professional goals.
8. Emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion in graduate education, and actively work to recruit and retain students from underrepresented groups.
9. Develop partnerships with industry, government, academia, and non-profit organizations that offer meaningful and impactful experiential learning opportunities for graduate students.
10. Encourage graduate students to become active and engaged members of their professional communities, and to use their knowledge and skills to create positive social and economic change.