Q&A with President Ginsberg

By Kailey Adams on December 14, 2023

Dr. Mark R. Ginsberg began his tenure as Towson University’s 15^th president on Oct. 30 for what he’s stated is the final stop of his career. He didn’t expect to leave his former position at George Mason University—where he spent 13 years as a provost, dean and faculty member—but when the opportunity arose to join what he calls one of the country’s best universities, he couldn’t resist. President Ginsberg now hopes to build on TU’s history of academic and inclusive excellence to make, as he says, “a great university even greater.”

Ginsberg and his wife Elaine have spent their entire adulthood as Maryland residents—living in Takoma Park for more than 40 years. They now split their time between there and Towson, currently staying in an on-campus residence hall—a decision that allows Ginsberg to spend as much time as possible interacting with TU students and other members of our university community.

During his first six weeks at TU, he’s made it a priority to meet with and listen to as many students, faculty and staff as his schedule allows. He’ll continue this effort in the spring semester, with public forums and group meetings to be announced soon.

In the meantime, get to know the newest member of the Tiger community.

What is your favorite meal you've had on campus so far?

I’ve had a lot of good food in the dining halls. Some great Indian food at the Glen and several soups and a roasted chicken dish I really liked at Newell. I love the feeling of Newell. I was eating with students recently and one mentioned that Newell feels like Hogwarts, and I love that.

What is your favorite holiday tradition?

My wife and I give each other a book every year. We celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah, and for more than 40 years, we’ve given each other a book and we write something personal in it. That’s definitely my favorite tradition.

What policies are you hoping to implement as president?

Well, I don’t want to set anything in stone yet. That's what listening is all about, and as I’ve said, listening is my top priority right now. Listening to understand the context of TU, why certain policies are put into place and how we can improve the university experience for all members of our community.

Throughout your career as an administrator, you’ve also remained a professor. You have mentioned you hope to return to the classroom in the future, even as president. Why do you want to continue teaching?

I just love to be with students. I get inspired when I see them get inspired. I love to be around students, to talk about ideas with them and learn what they are passionate about. I know the impact professors have on students, and I am gratified and inspired if I can help make a difference in their lives.

What class do you want to teach?

I’m not sure yet. I’ll need to talk with the deans and department chairs to see what is needed. My background is in psychology, education and the human services. I’d also welcome teaching a course on leadership.

What do you like to do on the weekend?

My wife would say I like to do laundry, but that’s not really true. Mostly, I enjoy being with family. Elaine and I enjoy going out for meals and trying new places. We like to find smaller, simple restaurants. If anyone has local recommendations, I would love to hear them! I’m also a huge sports fan, so I’m always either watching or attending sporting events. Especially rooting on the Orioles, my alma mater Penn State and, of course, our TU Tigers. I’m getting into the Ravens too!

What are your favorite movies & TV shows?

I love ”Casablanca.” It’s one of my all-time favorites and the first that comes to mind. For TV shows, I used to like “24” a lot when it was on. “The Wire” is also one of my favorites. I was working at Hopkins when it aired, and it was such a vivid portrayal of Baltimore. I also love “Seinfeld” and other shows like that, which capture life’s most precious everyday moments.

Who are your favorite musical artists?

I really enjoy music. Billy Joel, Hall and Oates, the Eagles—a lot of groups and artists from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s—James Taylor, Al Stewart, Carole King. Those are some of my favorites.

What is your favorite book?

“Seasons of a Man's Life” by Daniel Levinson, a former mentor of mine. It’s a terrific book. I also really admire the philosopher Milton Mayerhoff, who was a professor of mine as an undergraduate. I really enjoy his classic book, “On Caring.”

Do you have any favorite moments in your career as an educator?

It’d be hard to pinpoint one single moment. The instances when you see students have an aha moment, seeing it all click for them—that’s what it’s all about. I’ve also mentored a number of doctoral students, and to see them finish that achievement, knowing all the hard work that goes into that, is very rewarding.

What do you want TU students to know about you that they'd be surprised to learn?

I want to emphasize I genuinely enjoy getting to know them. I remember as an undergraduate, some of my most memorable experiences were when I had the opportunity to get to know faculty members. I always wanted to be the kind of teacher, and now leader, who is approachable. So when I’m in the dining halls or around campus, if you have a chance to stop and chat with me, I truly hope you will!