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February 9, 2026
Volume 56 Number 12
| | University News & Updates | |
Black History Month Events
Throughout February, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in Black History Month celebrations happening across campus. These programs and events reflect the richness of Black history and FSU's shared commitment to an engaged and informed campus.
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The 2nd Annual Douglass Day Transcribe-a-thon will be held on Friday, Feb. 13 from 12-3 p.m. in CCIT 235. Students, faculty, staff, administrators and community members are invited to assist organizers with transcribing materials related to the Colored Conventions Project. For more information, contact Dr. Amy Branam Armiento at abranam@frostburg.edu.
- The University Programming Council and the Black Student Alliance are partnering to host comedian Joyelle Nicole Johnson on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. in the ARMAH.
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The Office of Alumni Relations has kicked off a social media campaign to highlight African American alumni. If you would like to nominate a Bobcat for recognition, please do so using this form.
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Healthcare Investment
UPMC Western Maryland and Maryland Physicians Care have made a transformative $350,000 investment in FSU to expand scholarship support for students in our nursing and health science programs. This support represents not only financial assistance, but it also reflects a shared commitment to FSU, to the health and well-being of our region and to preparing students to be compassionate and highly skilled healthcare professionals. FSU is thankful for partners who share our mission to educate, inspire and support one another in ways that continue to shape a brighter future for our region and beyond.
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FSU Student Uses Cutting-Edge Technology to Transform Construction Industry Standards
FSU Sustainable Construction Management student Nathan Holaus '27 is on-site at the Arlington Career Center, witnessing the future of the construction industry firsthand. Holaus is completing an internship with A&N Construction, a commercial siding company. His recent work has placed him at the center of technological integration, specifically utilizing Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning to streamline complex architectural projects. Read more.
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Administrative Holiday Observance - March 19 & 20, 2026
President Trump closed Federal Offices on Dec. 24 and Dec. 26, 2025, and Governor Moore closed state offices on Dec. 24, 2025. At FSU, these dates had already been designated as holidays (Columbus Day and Veterans Day).
In accordance with applicable memorandums of understanding (AFSCME, FOP), Interim President Smith has designated March 19 and 20, 2026, as the University’s official observance dates for these holidays. FSU will be closed on both days.
Please note that this decision does not establish a precedent for future days off granted by the President of the U.S. and/or by the Governor. Any additional holidays not recognized by the University System of Maryland (USM) will continue to be determine at the discretion of the FSU President.
Employees must have been actively on payroll as of Dec. 24, 2025, in order to receive these administrative holidays. Employees hired after Dec. 24, 2025, will need to use personal leave or annual leave. This applies to all staff employees in Regular status positions (exempt or nonexempt), and Contingent II positions.
If you have any questions regarding your eligibility or leave options, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 301-687-7085.
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Maryland's Future is Here Campaign Begins
The University System of Maryland recently launched the Maryland’s Future Is Here campaign, which coincides with the Maryland Legislative Session. The campaign features videos of USM students sharing in their own words why they chose a Maryland public university and how they hope to shape the state’s future. Each week throughout the session, USM's Communications Office will share these videos on their social media channels with the goal of reminding legislators who we serve and the future contributions our students will make. The campaign features nearly 40 students from every part of the state, and from every system university and regional higher education center. When you see stories about FSU students, be sure to like and share the videos using the hashtag #MarylandsFuture to ensure maximum engagement, exposure and impact!
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Solo Art Exhibition Now Open
April Pauza, lecturer of Sculpture and Roper Gallery director in the Department of Digital Media and Visual Arts currently has a solo art exhibition that includes 16 works at the Goodall Gallery at Columbia College in Columbia, South Carolina titled: Southern Hospitality. Pauza's maximalist sculptures, constructed from familiar household objects, challenge long-held ideas about domesticity and womanhood drawn from her Southern upbringing. Visitors are invited to rethink the meaning of "home" as Pauza reveals its contradictions and complexities. The closing reception will be held on Feb. 26 from 5-7 p.m. with an artist talk at 6 p.m. The exhibition is open through Feb. 26.
| | | Career and Professional Development Center | |
The Washington Center to Visit Campus Feb. 11
FSU partners with The Washington Center (TWC) to provide students with academic internship opportunities in Washington, D.C., during the spring, summer and fall each year. All majors are welcome, and students receive FSU credits for their experience.
TWC will be on campus Wednesday, Feb. 11, and in an effort to raise awareness about the internship opportunities. They are willing to present in several classrooms throughout the course of the day. There will also be an informational session open to all students later that afternoon at 3 p.m. in Lane Center Room 113.
If you are interested in a presentation from TWC, please contact Amy Shimko '94 at 301-687-4403 or alshimko@frostburg.edu. To learn more about TWC, visit their website.
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Registration for all webinars closes two hours before they begin. Be on the lookout for a reminder email with a link to join the webinar one day prior to the event.
"Social Security: Fundamentals For Every Age"
Social Security isn't just a retirement issue - it's a lifelong planning topic. Learn the fundamentals of how the program works, what affects your future benefits, and how to plan smarter at every stage of life. Feb. 13 at 1 p.m. and Feb. 27 at 11 a.m.
"Getting to Know EMPOWER: Participant Technology in Action"
Explore the tools, technology and experiences that help participants make the most of their retirement journey with EMPOWER. (Presented by Empower, MSRP's Contractor for Plan Administrator). Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. and Feb. 27 at 1 p.m.
“Your Pension, Social Security and MSRP: Retirement Income For Life!”
Wondering how much income you’ll need in retirement, when to claim Social Security and how your State Pension and MSRP savings fit together? Join us to learn how to estimate benefits from all your retirement income sources and plan with confidence. Feb. 20 at 1 p.m.
"Your MSRP 457(b) and 401(k) Benefits: A Smart Start To Financial Security"
Join us for a comprehensive overview of the State of Maryland’s 457(b) and 401(k) Supplemental Retirement Plans, designed to help you make the most of your available retirement benefits. Whether you are a new employee or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will explain how these plans work, outline their key advantages and show how they can support your long-term retirement goals as a public sector employee. Feb. 9 at 1 p.m. and Feb. 13 at 11 a.m.
"Wellbeing And Medicare Essentials: Plan For A Thriving Retirement"
Whether retirement is right around the corner or a few years away, this webinar helps you plan holistically, so you can retire with clarity, confidence and purpose. In this session, you’ll learn Medicare essentials and how smart healthcare choices support your overall wellbeing, peace of mind and quality of life in retirement. Feb. 20 at 11 a.m.
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Now Accepting Nominations for the Annual Leadership and Engagement Awards
The Department of Student Engagement invites you to submit nominations for the annual Leadership and Engagement Awards. These awards recognize the distinguished undergraduate and graduate students, student organizations, faculty and staff for their promotion of leadership, community building, involvement, service, co-curricular excellence and overall enhancement of the student life experience on the campus. Recipients of these awards demonstrate exceptional leadership and service to students, FSU and our community.
Nominations can be submitted year-round. The award period is March 1 – Feb. 28 Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to submit nominations!
NEW THIS YEAR:
- Nominations for the Dr. Mary Mumper and SGA Senior Service awards will be submitted via the nomination form linked below. Nominations will be sent to their respective committees for review and decisions.
- Graduate Student Worker/Graduate Assistant Award – see the description page for more information
Nominations for the 2026 awards are due by Tuesday, March 10. Click HERE for more information.
| | | Important Resources & Reminders | | | | |
Announcements About Weather-Related Delays and Closings
It's that time of year again! Click the link for information on how to find out if Frostburg State University is CLOSED, DELAYED or will CLOSE EARLY on days with inclement weather, and what you should do to be prepared (Frostburg campus ONLY).
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Campus Race to Zero Waste
Campus Race to Zero Waste, formerly known as RecycleMania, began last week. This 8-week nationwide competition is designed to help colleges and universities find pathways toward zero waste on campus. We are competing with dozens of other campuses across the country to promote waste reduction. Please pitch in by bringing all recyclables to any of the recycling stations located across campus to help us rank in the competition. Every little bit helps!
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FSU Foundation Opportunity Grants
Students -- do you know about this opportunity for funding? If not, you need to check it out. Unrestricted gifts to the Annual Fund provide competitive awards each year to fund the following priorities:
- Focus learning on both the acquisition and application of knowledge
- Provide engaging experiences that challenge students to excel
- Expand regional outreach and engagement
- Align University resources
- And more...
Don't forget that the FSU Foundation Scholarship application is currently open for the 2026-2027 academic year. Priority consideration will be given to those who apply by the March 1 deadline. Over $1.5 million will be made available for scholarships next year!
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Paws Pantry is open and available to all FSU students, faculty and staff. Customers will complete a brief online intake and waiver form to register as a pantry member during their first visit. During regular hours, students may come to the pantry and shop from our selection of non-perishable foods, frozen foods and household/hygiene products (when available).
Spring hours are as follows:
- Mon. 11 a.m. to. 5 p.m.
- Tues. 2 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
- Wed. 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Thurs. CLOSED
- Fri. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- 4th Sat. of each month (begins 2/28/26) 2 to 4 p.m.
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Cordts PE Center Hours (Spring 2026 Jan. 26 through March 22)
The facility will have limited hours March 13 – 22.
Closed April 5.
General Facility Hours
Mon. – Thurs. 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Fri. 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sun. 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Fitness Center
Mon. – Thurs. 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri. 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sun. 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Climbing Wall (Beginning Feb. 2)
Mon. and Tues. 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Thurs. and Fri. 4 p.m. -8 p.m.
Swimming Pool (Open Swims are for FSU students, faculty/staff and all AFL pool members.The noon swim is for faculty/staff and adult AFL members only.)
Mon. - Thurs. 11 a.m. – noon: Open Swim; 12-1 p.m.: faculty/staff/Adult AFL members only; 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.: Open Swim
Fri. 11 a.m. – noon: Open Swim; 12-1 p.m.: faculty/staff/Adult AFL members only
Sun. 2-5 p.m.: Open Swim
Raquetball Court
The racquetball court is for racquetball play only. Participants must provide their own equipment. A daily signup sheet will be available each morning. Persons will be permitted to sign up for one 45-minute slot. The racquetball courts are not available for group use. This area will close 30 minutes prior to the building closing.
Room 164 (practice gym) and Main Arena
Hours will vary daily. These areas will close 30 minutes prior to the building closing.
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Lane University Center Game Room Hours
The Lane University Center's game room is now open during the norming operating hours below for the spring 2026 semester:
- Monday - Friday: Noon-9 p.m.
- Saturday: Noon-9 p.m.
- Sunday: 3-8 p.m.
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Etrieve Forms
As the new semester begins, some of you may have received Etrieve forms from the Registrar's Office. Timely review of Etrieve emails is essential, as these notifications often require action that directly supports students and academic operations. The Registrar's Office has created some helpful tips to check out! For questions, email reginfo@frostburg.edu or call 301-687-4281.
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Now Recruiting 2026 Summer Residential Staff
The Upward Bound Program at FSU is now recruiting Tutor/Counselors and a Head Resident for our Summer 2026 Upward Bound Residential Program. They are seeking motivated college students interested in making a positive difference in the lives of underprivileged youth in Allegany County. Students passionate about education, mentorship and youth development are encouraged to apply and join the Upward Bound Summer 2026 team.
All hiring information is available here. Interested students can apply here. Summer positions are also posted on Handshake. Interviews will begin in February.
For additional information, please contact the Upward Bound Office at (301) 687-4994 or upwardbound@frostburg.edu.
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Attention Students: Basic Information Technology Skills (BITS) Test for Tech Fluency
If you still need to fulfill your tech fluency requirement, the BITS (Basic Information Technology Skills) Test is ONE way to do so. This test will tentatively be offered in person for the first of two times this semester on Saturday, Feb. 14 at 9 a.m.
If you are interested in signing up for this exam, please report to CCIT, room 274A any time BEFORE 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11. At that time, you will be given the paperwork and instructions for signing up for the exam. Anyone not meeting this deadline will have to wait until the second test date later in the semester.
Detailed instructions will be forwarded to you once you’ve signed up for the exam. Please note that a testing fee in the amount of $25 will be charged for this exam.
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Accessibility Clean-Up Continues
Thanks go out to Rita Thomas and Michelle Hixon for leading the USM Digital Accessibility Spring Cleaning initiative. A set of resources has been compiled for your reference as you continue updating your digital content. Please feel free to reach out to the Center for Teaching Excellence if you have any questions or need additional support.
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Growing with Canvas Course Modules - short 3–5-minute videos that help break down core concepts and tasks around making digital content accessible to all.
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FSU Accessibility Assistant - FAQ available in the Bobcat Portal to help answer questions about accessibility.
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Six Essential Steps - Consistently completing these six steps when creating online content improves accessibility and gives all members of our community equal access to information and services.
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Join Us For a Series of Digital Accessibility Clean-Up Open Workshops
Ensuring that your course materials meet federal accessibility standards helps all students succeed - and keeps us compliant with the upcoming federal guidelines. During the workshops, you can work on fixing document accessibility issues, Canvas course clean-up, video captions and transcripts and accessible images and alt text.
Open Workshop Dates:
- Feb. 24 from 2-4 p.m.
- March 12 from 1-3 p.m.
- April 9 from 2-4 p.m.
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Teaching Online Certification
Registration is now open for the Spring 2026 Teaching Online Certification (TOC) course. The TOC is an opportunity for professional development and is a required step for all faculty before teaching online. The TOC opened Jan. 23 and will close on May 4.
What to Expect: During the TOC course, you will participate as a student in the TOC course while simultaneously receiving a new Canvas "course shell" to build your own content as an instructor.
Contact Rita Thomas '02/M'07/D'17 at rmthomas@frostburg.edu with any questions about the registration process or the course requirements.
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Activities for Life
Pilates will be held on Mondays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Cordts PE Room 104 Feb. 9, 16 and 23. The fee is $50.
Body Barre will be held on Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Cordts PE Room 104 Feb. 10, 17 and 24. The fee is $50.
Water Aerobics will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:40-7:30 p.m. in the pool Feb. 3 through March 5. The full session fee is $45.
Hatha Flow Yoga will be held on Wednesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Cordts PE Room 104 Feb. 4 through March 11. The fee is $75.
Vin Yin Yoga will be held on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Cordts PE Room 104 Feb. 5 through March 12. The fee is $75.
Auriculotherapy will be held on Feb. 10, 18, 26 and March 2 from 3:30-5 p.m. in PE Rooms 220 and 220B. The sessions are free.
Zumba will be held on Wednesdays from 7-8 p.m. in Cordts PE Room 104, Dance Studio March 25 through May 6. The cost is $75.
Contact anazelrod@frostburg.edu for more information.
| | | FSU 2026 Shuttle Schedules | |
MSOM Doc Trot 5K
Meritus is hosting the inaugural 5K race, the MSOM Doc Trot 5K, benefiting the Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine (MSOM). The event is designed to promote health, wellness and community engagement, with proceeds supporting potential scholarship opportunities for future physicians.
The race will take place on the medical campus and surrounding areas and will be professionally managed in partnership with Racine MultiSports.
Event Details:
- Date: March 21
- Race Start: 9:00 a.m.
- Packet Pickup: 8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.
- Awards: Immediately following the race
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Student Counseling Center Upcoming Events
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Love Your Self, Love Your Body: Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the LUC
- Join the Student Heath and Student Counseling Center to celebrate body positivity and encourage a healthy body image. Stop by and interact in different activities designed to cultivate courageous conversations about being the change you want to see by starting with the person in the mirror!
- Cocoa & Connection: Feb. 23, 8:30-11 a.m. in the LUC
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FSU Athletics Updates
Be sure to subscribe to Town Square to get an update every Monday from Frostburg State Athletics that highlights home contests for the upcoming week. Please use these announcements as a personal invitation to come see our student-athletes and staff members in action.
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Bobcat Dining invites faculty and staff to check out the newly renovated Chesapeake Dining Hall and all the exciting selections. Open 7 days a week, Chesapeake offers an "all-you-care-to-eat" dining experience, now with freshly updated features and menu items.
Every Friday, lunch is $8 for faculty and staff. Don't miss out! Scan the QR code for the daily menu.
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FSU's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance Presents "Voices from the Stage"
FSU's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance will present its choral concert, entitled “Voices from the Stage,” on Saturday, March 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Pealer Recital Hall of FSU’s Woodward D. Pealer Performing Arts Center. Read more
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FSU's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance Presents The Revolutionists
FSU's Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance will present The Revolutionists by Lauren Gunderson, under the direction of Nicole Mattis, on March 5, 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m. and on March 7 and 8 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the F. Perry Smith Studio Theatre of the Woodward D. Pealer Performing Arts Center. Read more
| | | Office of Sponsored Programs Successes & Latest News | |
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On Jan. 16, project director Kristine McGee M'97 (Educational Professions) was awarded $20,000 in Alice Virginia and David W. Fletcher Foundation, Inc. funds through the Frostburg State University Foundation to support the FSU PALS program.
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On Jan. 12, project director Jamil Abdo (Engineering and Sustainable Technologies) was awarded $92,085 ($68,085 in a Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS) award from the University of Maryland, Maryland Technology Enterprise Institute (MTECH) and $24,000 from Intelligent Fusion Technologies, Inc.) for the project, Intelligent Fusion Technology: AI-Driven Insight in Additive Manufacturing.
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On Nov. 20, project director Ashley Daniels '11 (Student Engagement) was awarded $2,820 in Maryland Food Bank – Food First Capacity Grant funds through the Frostburg State University Foundation to support the project, Paws Pantry Community Improvement Grant.
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Process Update: Kuali Proposal Routing
All external grant proposals must now be submitted through the Kuali Research Portal for internal review and approval. Kuali replaces prior paper and email routing and ensures all required departmental and administrative approvals are captured before submission. Faculty planning to pursue external funding this semester are encouraged to reach out for individual Kuali training or support. OSP is available to assist with system navigation, proposal setup, and routing questions.
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Check Out the Bobcat Portal!
The Office of Information Technology is proud to announce the launch of the Bobcat Portal, a reimagined version of the former Faculty/Staff Portal.
The Bobcat Portal is designed to better serve the entire FSU community, including faculty, staff, and now students. This expanded access creates a single, unified entry point for important tools, resources and information across campus.
We encourage you to take advantage of this resource. Check back often to explore the new features and begin experiencing the Bobcat Portal.
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