From the Chair

Cassie Moore

WELCOME FROM REGION II CHAIR

Hi All,

Not gonna lie, it’s been a rocky start to 2025. But I will say it’s so much better to be uncertain and confused with my Region II colleagues than it is alone. The jokes we share, the little check-ins, and the community we’ve built keep me going each day, and I hope the same is true for everyone reading this. I want to thank everyone in our region for continuing to show up and bring their best, even in the midst of these strange days. And with that, I welcome the Region II 2025 Steering Committee:

• Rebecca O’Brien (Chair-Elect and Volunteer and Membership Development Committee Chair)
• Stephanie Alfieri (Secretary and Communications Committee Chair)
• Jennifer Vessio (Treasurer)
• Sandy Collier (Immediate Past Chair and Leadership Development & Nominating Committee Chair)
• Cynthia Kane (Professional Development Committee Chair)
• Margarita Cardona (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Chair)
• Jennifer Harman (Mentor Me Committee Chair)
• Catherine Parker (Meeting Program Committee)
• Lamar Oglesby (Regionally Elected National Board Member)
• Charles Bartunek (Member at Large)
• Adam Greenberg (Member at Large)
• Anusha Naganathan (Member at Large)
• Becca Steiner (Member at Large)

I’d also like to thank all of our outgoing board members: Albana Cejne, Rashonda Harris, Mary Louise Healy, Laura Kingsley, and Chea Smith. We APPRECIATE all you have done and continue to do for the region!

As always, feel free to contact me or any member of the Steering Committee if you have suggestions for Region II activities, educational offerings, or just want to chat. 

Cassie Moore

Region II Chair

University of Maryland, College Park

cmoore17@umd.edu

Featured Event

📰 Science in Action: Stand Up for Science 2025 🧪✨

In a time when scientific integrity, funding, and public trust are more important than ever, we are excited to spotlight Stand Up for Science 2025—a nationwide event advocating for science-driven policy and public engagement.

🔹 Stand Up for Science – Washington, DC & Nationwide

📍 Multiple Locations | 🗓 Friday, March 7, 2025

🌎 Learn more: standupforscience2025.org

As recent events highlight the need for evidence-based decision-making in public health, environmental policy, and research funding, this movement brings together scientists, advocates, and communities to champion the role of science in shaping our future.

🗣 Why It Matters:

• Promotes science education and outreach
• Advocates for policies based on scientific evidence
• Strengthens public trust in research and innovation

Whether you attend in person or support from afar, let’s stand together for science! 🏛🔬 #StandUpForScience2025

NCURA Board Update: A Vision for the Future amid Present Uncertainty

Lamar Oglesby

The NCURA Board gathered in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from February 7-9 for an energizing and forward-thinking meeting. The weekend kicked off Friday evening, just as the NIH issued new supplemental guidance around indirect costs. While this development certainly caught our attention, the Board, composed of research administration leaders from institutions across the country, remained focused and engaged.

With enthusiasm and a commitment to progress, we delved into strategic planning for the future, ensuring that NCURA continues to thrive in an evolving research landscape. The board received updates from our standing and select committees and discussed the implications of the presidential executive orders on our organization and our membership. Lastly, there was a strong collective sentiment to remain committed to our core values, now more than ever. It was inspiring to witness the dedication NCURA’s Board has toward its members.

With such a dynamic and engaged board, NCURA is well-positioned to navigate the challenges ahead and embrace the opportunities of the future. Stay tuned for more updates, including the Board Update that appears in each issue of the NCURA Magazine, as we continue this exciting journey together!

Lamar Oglesby, Region II Elected Board Representative

Professional Development Committee

Cynthia Kane

Host a Region II Professional Development Workshop

Our PDC Workshops offer an exciting opportunity to bring valuable learning experiences to your institution or broader community of research and sponsored programs professionals.

Region II’s Workshops:

• provide detailed information that participants can use immediately
• focus on current general and specific topics in research and sponsored projects administration
• are presented by recognized leaders in research and sponsored projects administration from Region II
• foster local networks of colleagues
• are cost-effective, one-day events offered in locations where participants will not require overnight travel

Hosting a workshop is a FANTASTIC way to make an impact on your community.

Current offerings are being reviewed and refreshed as you read this!

Popular topics include:

• Building Blocks for Research Administration (Beginner)
• Contracts: Common Issues and Best Practices for All Sponsor Types
• Building a Budget
• Internal Controls
• …and more!

Interested in bringing this valuable resource to your location? Contact Cynthia Kane at cjk418@lehigh.edu to learn more.

Join the Region II Professional Development Committee

Do you have a passion for sharing knowledge, collaborating with dynamic professionals, and advancing the field? We’ve got the perfect fit for you—volunteering for the Region II Professional Development Committee!

We’re on the lookout for talented and dedicated individuals who want to make a real impact in supporting our regional members and strengthening the community of research administrators.

Why Volunteer?

1. You’re Helping Shape the Future: From supporting and creating engaging training opportunities to organizing events that connect professionals across the region, your work will directly influence how research administrators evolve and grow.
2. Networking Opportunities Like No Other: If you’re looking to build meaningful relationships with other passionate research administrators, look no further. As a volunteer, you’ll collaborate with a talented, motivated team of professionals who are just as committed to the future of research as you are. Plus, who doesn’t love expanding their professional network?
3. Develop New Skills: Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing! As a member of the committee, you’ll develop leadership, communication, and event-planning skills that will enhance your career. And the best part? You’ll learn from fellow committee members, gaining insights from a broad range of experiences and knowledge.
4. Make a Difference: By volunteering, you help provide tools, resources, and development opportunities that empower professionals to thrive.

How Do You Get Involved? Simple! Just reach out to the current chair, Cynthia Kane, cjk418@lehigh.edu and let us know you’re interested. We’re excited to welcome new members and new ideas.

So, what are you waiting for? The Region II PDC is calling……will you answer?

2025 Fall Meeting

 Catherine Parker

SAVE THE DATE!

NCURA Region II is excited to announce that our 2025 Regional Meeting will be held at the Gideon Putnam Resort in Saratoga Springs, NY, from October 19-22, 2025! Stay tuned to emails, Facebook, and our Region II website in the coming weeks and months for information concerning registration, hotel blocks, and more!

In the meantime, consider joining this year’s Program Committee! We are searching for approximately 20 to 25 volunteers who can attend regular conference calls and otherwise assist behind the scenes in shaping this year’s conference in Saratoga. Volunteers are involved in such activities as reviewing and choosing the sessions for each track, organizing the fun events, and helping with meeting logistics.

The Program Committee meets once per month, and subcommittees will meet 1-2 times per month as needed.

If you are interested in volunteering or have questions, please email our Program Chair Catherine Parker at caparker@umd.edu. 

Mentor Me Program

 Jennifer Harman

The Cheryl Lee Howard Mentor Me Program is now accepting applications for the 8th cohort, which begins in April.

The program is a 10-month commitment for mentees which culminates in both a pre-fall regional meeting retreat (Saturday night to Sunday, October 18–19) and a presentation at the 2025 Regional Meeting in Saratoga Springs, NY. During the 10-month program, mentees are paired with a primary mentor with whom they meet regularly. Participation also includes a monthly meeting with all mentees and mentors. Please visit the Region II website for more information and application materials. For questions, contact Jennifer Harman at jennifer_harman@urmc.rochester.edu.

Interested in Joining Region II’s Fantastic Volunteers?

Rebecca O’Brien

Are you interested in contributing to the NCURA Magazine? We are looking for volunteers to write content for the Work Smart Column! The Work Smart Column provides helpful tips, tricks, and best practices to be shared with the readers in case they are facing similar situations and can benefit from the solutions of their peers. The article is brief, approximately 250-300 words in length. Click here for examples in past issues. Upcoming topics of interest include AI – The Next Frontier, UG – A Year Later, and Turning the Page. If you are interested, please contact Rebecca O’Brien, robrien@towson.edu, to learn more!

Getting to Know our Members!

🌟 Get to Know Your Membership Region! 🌟

We’re building a stronger community, and what better way to start than by getting to know each other? This month, we’re featuring a fun interactive activity to help you connect with fellow members in your region!

🗺 Activity: "Where in the Region?"

• Share a fun fact or a favorite place in your area.
• Post a picture of a local landmark, event, or hidden gem.
• Answer this question: What’s something unique about living and working in your region? 

📩 How to Participate:

Click here to submit your responses! Let’s celebrate the diversity and strengths of our membership region. 🌍✨

We’ll feature some of your submissions in the next edition—so get sharing! 🎉

Stay connected with us!

Follow our social media pages to stay updated on the latest news, events, and opportunities. Don’t miss out—join the conversation and engage with our community today!