Connecting the Southern Maryland community with St. Mary’s College of Maryland is the mission of the College’s new Office of Community Outreach and Engagement. The office will serve as a hub for collaboration and community partnerships, and will work to advance the College’s commitment to civic engagement and public service.
“Community engagement is one of the pillars of the College’s strategic plan, The Rising Tide,” said Tuajuanda Jordan, PhD, president of St. Mary’s College of Maryland. “As the National Public Honors College, St. Mary’s College of Maryland seeks to be an anchor institution, cultivating long-lasting and impactful relationships that contribute to a robust, thriving and resilient community.”
The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement will focus on building meaningful relationships with community organizations, government agencies, businesses and residents. It will support students looking for service opportunities and faculty interested in incorporating community engagement into their teaching and research. It will also work to expand and publicize the College resources available to the community.
The office will offer a range of services and programs, including:
- Outreach: Communicating with the Southern Maryland community, and providing information about college resources available to the public.
- Partnership Development: Establishing and nurturing mutually beneficial partnerships with local organizations.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Coordinating volunteer programs that align with students’ personal and academic interests and career goals.
- Community-Based Learning Programs: Working with faculty to integrate community engagement into the curriculum.
- Community Events: Hosting or facilitating workshops, seminars and events that address community needs and foster intergenerational dialogue.
Caroline King, director of the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, brings a wealth of experience in community outreach and public service to her new role. “I am excited to lead this initiative and work closely with our community partners,” said King. “Together, we can create meaningful change, enrich lives, and build a stronger community.”
The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement is located on campus at Daugherty-Palmer Commons. The office is open to the public, but please call ahead to schedule an appointment. To learn more about the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, visit www.smcm.edu/about/community-hub, connect to the office on social media or reach out to the office directly.
Contact:
Caroline King, Director of Community Outreach and Engagement
240-895-5017
clking@smcm.edu
community@smcm.edu
