Student organizations provide you with an opportunity to grow, meet others, and to feel a sense of belonging within University of Maryland Global Campus. Join us in celebrating the winners of this year’s awards!
Student Organization of the Year
History Student Society
The History Student Society has won the top prize for the fourth year in a row. In addition to holding its’ annual International Undergraduate History Conference, the History Student Society added new programming, including virtual events where alumni spoke about how they incorporated their previous work experience and their passion for history into their current careers. The History Student Society also worked to develop badges for the members who participated in the planning and management of the groups’ events.
Do you have an interest in history? You too can join the award-winning History Student Society for free through or can learn of upcoming events through the .
Student Organization of the Year Honorable Mention
Graphic Designer Student Association
The Graphic Designer Student Association is being awarded an honorable mention due to its strong engagement as a new student organization. In its first year, the group held monthly meetings to create a strong community. Discussion topics included suggestions for classes, advice about future goals, celebrating members’ artwork and achievements, and hosting guest speakers who were able to provide insight and advice.
Student Organization Leader Award
Dwight Smith, American Marketing Association (AMA) Chapter
Dwight Smith, an undergraduate student, served as the vice president of programs and acting president in the AMA Chapter at t şÚÁĎÉçÇř. In addition to regularly participating in meetings, Smith effectively communicates with the leadership team, engages with UMGC faculty and staff, and organizes interesting and informative events. This spring, Smith suggested an informal peer-to-peer networking meeting held once a quarter, which will allow members to interact with each other on a more regular basis. Smith's leadership inspires other UMGC students and has contributed to an increase in membership.
Stephanie Rodriguez, History Student Society
Stephanie Rodriguez, an alum, is one of the founding leaders of the History Student Society and an active member in the organization. Her commitment to the organization has enhanced the group’s programming and community. She has volunteered in the group’s three annual conferences, often taking whatever task or role is needed. In addition, once she graduated and obtained a position that combines her project management experience with her interest in history, she hosted an event to share her journey and provide tips to others. Joining the History Student Society gave Rodriguez a sense of community when she needed it, and now she is proud to share her story with other members.
Student Organization Member Award
Alexis Beardsley, multiple organizations
Alexis Beardsley has demonstrated consistent commitment to personal and professional growth through being involved in several student organizations. She has been an active member of the Student Veteran’s Association at t şÚÁĎÉçÇř, serving as secretary and helping students feel connected and informed. In addition, she attends guest speaker webinars through her membership with the National Society of Leadership and Success and is also a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. She appreciates how the groups help students feel connected at t şÚÁĎÉçÇř.
Student Organization Member Honorable Mention
Callaway Donovan, STEM Club
Callaway Donovan has been an active and enthusiastic member of the new STEM Club which hosts events on the UMGC Europe campus. In addition to participating in club meetings and events, they demonstrated leadership and community engagement by volunteering at a local elementary school STEM event. There, they helped introduce young students to science and technology through hands-on activities and demonstrations.
Student Organization Advisor Award
Nandi Holmes, National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)
Professor Nandi Holmes’ dedication, guidance, and mentorship has been instrumental in getting the NSCS Chapter at t şÚÁĎÉçÇř back in action. Professor Holmes ensures the group’s activities are engaging, relevant, and beneficial for members. Her no-nonsense, proactive approach keeps the student leaders on track. She encourages student leaders to take initiative, helping them build confidence and leadership skills. “Being the NSCS advisor has been rewarding in a lot of ways,” shares Holmes. “Each student leader has brought their own value, experiences, and insight to serve the greater good.”
“Best in Show” Activities and Events Award
International Undergraduate History Conference, History Student Society
For the third year in a row, the International Undergraduate History Conference is being recognized as the event continues to grow. This year’s conference received thirty-five proposals from students and had sixty-two attendees. Proposals came from at least one institution that did not receive direct outreach from the History Student Society, showing that the conference’s reputation is growing in reach. This year, the student leaders collaborated with the Office of Legal Affairs to ensure conference recordings can be shared and worked one-on-one with the students whose proposals were selected to ensure the sessions ran successfully. Â
Student organization awards nominations open in the spring semester for work done in the past academic year, and a committee within Student Affairs reviews the applications. Students are encouraged to explore the different student organizations offered at t şÚÁĎÉçÇř and to get involved!