The University System of Maryland (USM) is celebrating 25 years of serving as Maryland’s public higher education system. USM benefits students and citizens of Maryland by offering access to affordable educational opportunities while promoting economic growth and workforce development. It is comprised of 12 institutions, two regional higher education centers, and a system office. USM’s academic programs and activities have a significant impact on the quality of life in Maryland, creating social and economic benefits for people throughout the state.

Jennifer Vasquez is a 2012 graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park Communication program at the Universities at Shady Grove, where she attended on a full-tuition Clifford and Camille Kendall scholarship. She is now employed as a field producer for NBC News on Capitol Hill.