For more information:
Laura Cech at lcech@umd.edu
Nov. 30, 2021 – Some of University of Maryland’s outstanding graduating seniors worked to address climate change, education gaps, and diversity, equity and inclusion. One senior wrote a textbook. Another has already been admitted to Harvard Law School, but first will serve in the Teach for America Corps in D.C.
However, the Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars program does more than recognize these seniors for their accomplishments, prestigious internships and impressive GPAs. It honors faculty and K-12 teachers who helped mentor them.
Each of the 19 Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars being honored this week credits grade school and high school teachers and UMD faculty who helped guide, inspire, coach, tutor and challenge them in both big and small ways.
“Programs like these are critical to our students’ success,” said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. “They celebrate invaluable mentorship that will have a long lasting impact on the lives of our students, while on campus and beyond. We are incredibly grateful for the individuals who have been instrumental to our students’ progress during their academic journeys.”
The late Philip Merrill, friend of the University and long-time Washington area publisher, created the Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars Program in 2004 to build a community of scholars, faculty members and K-12 teachers who recognize the importance of teaching and mentoring the next generation. The Scholars are selected by the academic colleges and schools with undergraduate major programs. The program provides $1,000 scholarships, which are awarded in the K-12 teacher’s name to another student from that school district who will attend UMD in the fall of 2022.
“The Merrill Presidential Scholars Program is creating an important legacy,” said William A. Cohen, Associate Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Studies. “In recognizing that mentorship is at the heart of academic and personal achievement, these scholarships honor the K-12 teachers and UMD undergraduate faculty who support student success through academic guidance, encouragement, and support.”
A reception will be held on Dec. 3 at University House. The teachers also attend a workshop with Maryland faculty designed to strengthen collaboration between the University and K-12 schools.
The Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars for 2021-22 are: