Dear St. Mary’s College Community,
As we chart a bold course for the future of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, we recognize our responsibility as The National Public Honors College to empower our students with the versatile skills they need to thrive as responsible and thoughtful citizens and leaders. The LEAD (Learning through Experiential and Applied Discovery) Initiative is our compass. It blends an all-honors education seamlessly with professional skills development, an ethic of service, and a spirit of caring to help our graduates navigate a modern, changing world.
Since its inception, the LEAD Initiative has had a tremendous impact on our campus. It was the catalyst for developing new business administration, neuroscience, performing arts and marine science programs as well as the track and field varsity sport. The Honors College Promise, a hallmark of the LEAD Initiative, is our commitment to provide the necessary resources so that all students can engage in an international, research or internship experience. Last year over 1,100 of our students completed a Professional Pathways course, 405 were mentored by our alumni, and 388 completed internships.
To fully implement all that the LEAD Initiative can offer, we launched Taking the LEAD: The Campaign for St. Mary’s College of Maryland. More than 100 generous donors have provided $13.6 million in the quiet phase toward a goal of $20 million. This campaign anchors the College’s new “The Rising Tide” strategic plan, creating an innovative academic identity, fostering inclusivity and connecting our students with the community. You can learn more about the campaign by visiting go.smcm.edu/taking-the-lead – there is a video that is sure to inspire!
By supporting Taking the LEAD with a gift large or small to the LEAD Fund, you are helping today’s students here and now. Your donations will strengthen our unique liberal arts student experience to prepare them for their next steps after graduation. I ask you to join us now in Taking the LEAD – steering our College toward a brighter future for generations to come. Your support is vital.
Thank you for helping us embark on this phenomenal journey,
Tuajuanda C. Jordan, President
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
