President Ginsberg

To the Towson University community:

It is my great honor to write to you today as the next president of Towson University. When Chancellor Perman called to let me know the University System of Maryland Board of Regents had selected me to lead this great institution, I was overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to join an incredible community. I thank him, Regent Ellen Fish and the rest of the Board of Regents, as well as the members of the TU search committee for trusting me to be your next leader.

As a Maryland resident of more than 40 years, I’ve witnessed TU’s remarkable rise in becoming not only one of the most respected institutions in our state, but one of the best in the nation. I was able to learn much about TU throughout the search process and have been very impressed by its programs, activities and initiatives. At every juncture, it became clear to me that TU is truly special. I have been blown away by the energy, vibrancy and passion that surround the campus, and by the unparalleled priority the university has in support of diversity, equity, inclusion and a genuine commitment to “belonging.”

I was drawn to TU because of its mission and everything it embodies: academic innovation, personal and workforce development, inclusive excellence and community stewardship. TU is an engine for success for its students, the Greater Baltimore region and the entire state. As we enter the next phase of growth together, I believe we have the opportunity, and a shared responsibility, to go from “great to even greater.”

Education is one of the most powerful tools we have in our society. I’ve built my life and career around it: since receiving my Ph.D., I’ve spent many years working in higher education – including as a faculty member and department chair at Johns Hopkins and 13 years as a dean then provost at George Mason. I also spent 11 years as the Executive Director and CEO of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and have continued to remain involved as a member of numerous academic and education-focused associations. My dedication to education and devotion to a career as an educator runs in my family, as my wife, Elaine, and my son, Andrew, both have been faculty members at the University of Maryland.

As a psychologist, I believe genuine relationships are essential for success. As a leader, I believe in putting people first. And above all, I believe students are the lifeline of a university and faculty and staff are the essential catalysts for their success. It will be among my top priorities to build a collaborative community where co-creation, engagement, inclusion, caring and compassion are the cornerstones of our campus.

I’ve already had the pleasure of communicating with Dr. Melanie Perreault, who has served the TU community as a fantastic leader as interim president and throughout her four years as provost. We share a vision for the future of TU academics – one aimed at bolstering student success, supporting faculty and staff growth, and conducting cutting-edge research. Dr. Perreault, the TU leadership team and the entire university community will be invaluable as I begin the transition into my new role.

While I don’t officially begin my tenure until October 30, I plan to visit the campus frequently before getting started later in the fall. In the weeks and months ahead, I’ll be immersing myself in all there is to know about Towson University, and your engagement will be crucial as we together develop meaningful goals for the university’s future.

I can’t wait to get to campus soon and meet as many of you as possible throughout the fall. Until then, have a great rest of your summer and Go Tigers!

Sincerely,

Mark R. Ginsberg Signature

Mark R. Ginsberg, Ph.D.
Incoming President of Towson University