{"id":3131,"date":"2025-11-14T16:56:17","date_gmt":"2025-11-14T20:56:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/?page_id=3131"},"modified":"2026-02-13T09:45:54","modified_gmt":"2026-02-13T13:45:54","slug":"provost-faculty-fellows-program-cohort-2","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/provost-faculty-fellows-program\/provost-faculty-fellows-program-cohort-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Fellows Cohort II"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-header-secondary-bg-color-background-color has-background\">PROJECTS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Project I<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 UMES Strategic Plan Priority and Goal<\/strong><br>UMES Strategic Priority III \u2013 Workforce and Economic Development\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Goal 3.7 &#8211; Partner with business and community leaders to better understand and address local and regional economic development needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>B.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Title: Develop a Strategic Plan to Enhance Employer Partner Relationships\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>C.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Description<\/strong><br>The Provost Faculty Fellows will develop a Strategic Plan to Enhance Employer Partner Relationships that will:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Assess current employer partnerships across UMES to\u00a0determine\u00a0existing strengths and opportunities.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify\u00a0new potential partners based on emerging workforce trends, regional economic priorities, and alignment with UMES\u2019s mission and strategic goals.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Establish criteria for evaluating potential partners to ensure compatibility with UMES\u2019s academic programs and institutional values.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Develop clear goals and measurable outcomes for\u00a0different types\u00a0of partnerships (e.g., internships, research collaborations, recruitment pipelines, curriculum development).\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recommend mechanisms to measure partnership success and long-term impact on student outcomes, faculty engagement, and employer satisfaction.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Propose a structure for ongoing oversight and evaluation of employer relationships, including\u00a0identifying\u00a0the\u00a0appropriate UMES\u00a0office or committee to\u00a0monitor\u00a0implementation.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The project will culminate in a comprehensive Employer Partnership Strategic Plan that serves as a roadmap for collaboration and workforce engagement across all UMES schools and departments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Project II<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 UMES Strategic Plan Priority and Goal\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">UMES Strategic Priority I \u2013 Academic Excellence and Innovation&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Goal 1.3 \u2013 Recruit,&nbsp;retain, and develop exceptional faculty and staff, and nurture a dynamic environment in which they thrive \u2013&nbsp;<em>Teaching Excellence<\/em>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>B.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Title:<\/strong> <strong>Implementation of Strategies for Enhancing Faculty Onboarding and Advancing Faculty Well-Being\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>C.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Description<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This project aims to strengthen the faculty lifecycle experience\u2014from onboarding to retention and professional growth\u2014by enhancing institutional practices that promote engagement, connection, and well-being.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Provost Faculty Fellows&nbsp;will review the current onboarding process, gather feedback from recent faculty cohorts, and collaborate with campus stakeholders to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;opportunities for improvement. The revised onboarding framework will include streamlined processes, clear expectations, structured mentorship, and access to essential university resources that promote early success.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simultaneously, the Fellow will develop a comprehensive faculty well-being plan designed to mitigate burnout, promote collegiality and civility, and strengthen faculty morale. This plan will include strategies and recommendations to enhance work-life balance, foster community among faculty, and integrate wellness resources across the institution.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By combining these two areas of focus, the project seeks to create a cohesive and sustainable approach that supports both the professional and personal dimensions of faculty life at UMES.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Fellows will work closely with the Center for Teaching Excellence and the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Project&nbsp;III<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 UMES Strategic Plan Priority and Goal<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">UMES Strategic Priority I \u2013 Academic Excellence and Innovation&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Goal 1.1 \u2013 Attract,&nbsp;retain, and graduate more aspiring students at the undergraduate and graduate levels \u2013&nbsp;<em>Student Success Strategic Plan<\/em>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>B.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Title:\u00a0\u00a0Enhancing Student Success in UMES\u2019 Graduate Programs<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>C.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Description<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Provost Faculty Fellows will conduct a comprehensive review of graduate student experiences at UMES,&nbsp;identify&nbsp;barriers to progression, and propose targeted interventions. The project will:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Assess current graduate student support systems (academic advising, mentoring, career services, financial aid, and wellness resources).\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Collect input from graduate students, faculty advisors, and program coordinators about key challenges.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Benchmark successful models from peer institutions.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pilot new strategies or resources to better support graduate student success, such as structured advising checkpoints, professional development workshops, and enhanced communication about degree milestones.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-header-secondary-bg-color-background-color has-background\">FELLOWS \u2013 COHORT II<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-hero-main-bg-color-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized coblocks-animate\" data-coblocks-animation=\"slideInLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"281\" height=\"291\" src=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/11\/rOUND-cOTTOMON-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3141\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.9511400651465798;width:238px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ms. Corrie Cotton<br><\/strong>Agriculture, Food and Resource Sciences<br><a href=\"mailto:cpcotton@umes.edu\">cpcotton@umes.edu<\/a><br>Project:&nbsp; Enhancing Student Success in UMES&#8217; Graduate Programs<br>Dean Mentor:&nbsp; Dr. Derrek Dunn<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ms. Corrie Cotton<\/strong> is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Agriculture, Food and Resources at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). She earned both her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and Master of Landscape Architecture degrees from Pennsylvania State University in 2004. Her current research centers on agronomic and specialty crop production using conventional methods as well as controlled environments such as greenhouses, growth chambers, and a vertical hydroponic container farm. Additionally, she has conducted research in food safety of fresh produce, plant-microbe interactions, and ethnic crop production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ms. Cotton teaches several courses including the First Year Experience Seminar, Senior Capstone Experience, and Landscape Design Theory. She has also served as program director\/coordinator for three K-12 summer enrichment programs and remains actively involved in academic advising, student recruitment, and retention efforts. Throughout her tenure at UMES, she has received multiple grants supporting her teaching, research, and extension initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-coblocks-dynamic-separator has-background has-header-secondary-bg-color-color is-style-fullwidth\" style=\"height:50px\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-hero-main-bg-color-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized is-style-rounded coblocks-animate\" data-coblocks-animation=\"slideInLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"237\" height=\"356\" src=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/Kathleen-Davis-Bierman.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3250\" style=\"width:209px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/Kathleen-Davis-Bierman.jpg 237w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/Kathleen-Davis-Bierman-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 237px) 100vw, 237px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ms. Kathleen Davis-Bierman<\/strong><br>Hospitality and Tourism Management<br>Lecturer<br><a href=\"mailto:ksdavis@umes.edu\">ksdavis@umes.edu<\/a><br>Project:&nbsp; Implementation of Strategies for Enhancing Faculty Onboarding and Advancing Faculty Well-Being<br>Dean Mentor:&nbsp; Dr. LaKeisha Harris<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Kathleen Davis-Bierman, CHE, DTM<\/strong>, is a higher education leader, educator, and facilitator with extensive experience spanning industry leadership, academic instruction, and system-level service. She currently teaches at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), where her work emphasizes leadership development, experiential learning, and preparing students for professional success. Her teaching is informed by industry experience and a strong commitment to inclusive, student-centered leadership practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the system level, Kathleen serves as Chair of the University System of Maryland Women\u2019s Forum (USMWF), collaborating with the Office of the Chancellor to advance leadership development, professional growth, and community-building for women across the University System of Maryland. In this role, she provides strategic leadership, facilitates dialogue among diverse stakeholders, and supports initiatives that strengthen connection and shared learning across institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kathleen is also an accomplished leader within Toastmasters International, where she has developed strong skills in communication, facilitation, and peer leadership. Through Toastmasters, she has supported member growth, guided group discussions, and fostered environments grounded in encouragement, accountability, and continuous improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Across all of her roles, Kathleen is known for her relational leadership approach. She values peer-to-peer learning, reflective dialogue, and the creation of inclusive spaces where individuals can learn from one another\u2019s experiences. Her leadership is grounded in service, collaboration, and a commitment to empowering others to lead with confidence and purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-coblocks-dynamic-separator has-background has-header-secondary-bg-color-color is-style-fullwidth\" style=\"height:50px\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-hero-main-bg-color-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded coblocks-animate\" data-coblocks-animation=\"slideInLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"342\" height=\"345\" src=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3253\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-2.png 342w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-2-297x300.png 297w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-2-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-2-50x50.png 50w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 342px) 100vw, 342px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong>Dr. Ismail&nbsp;Farajpour<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><br>Department of the Built Environment<br>Associate Professor and Chair<br><a href=\"mailto:ifarajpour@umes.edu\">ifarajpour@umes.edu<\/a><br>Project:&nbsp; Developing a Strategic Plan to Enhance Employer Partner Relationships<br>Dean Mentor:&nbsp; Dr. Sean Vasaitis<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ismail&nbsp;Farajpour, Ph.D<\/strong>. is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of the Built Environment at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Clemson University and has extensive experience in engineering education, academic leadership, and program development.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prior to joining UMES, Dr.&nbsp;Farajpour&nbsp;served on the faculty in the Department of Engineering at South Carolina State University, where he held the role of Associate Professor and served as Academic Program Coordinator for the Civil Engineering program and Faculty Advisor to the ASCE Student Chapter. In these roles, he contributed to curriculum development, student success initiatives, and program advancement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr.&nbsp;Farajpour\u2019s&nbsp;research interests include computational structural analysis, finite element analysis, structural optimization, and uncertainty quantification and model validation. His work emphasizes the application of advanced computational and numerical methods to improve the performance and reliability of structural systems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In his current role, Dr.&nbsp;Farajpour&nbsp;focuses on advancing academic programs, strengthening industry engagement, supporting faculty and student research, and ensuring continuous improvement and&nbsp;accreditation&nbsp;readiness. He is committed to developing dynamic, industry-relevant programs and fostering a collaborative academic environment that supports student success and workforce preparation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-coblocks-dynamic-separator has-background has-header-secondary-bg-color-color is-style-fullwidth\" style=\"height:50px\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-hero-main-bg-color-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized coblocks-animate\" data-coblocks-animation=\"slideInLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"296\" height=\"304\" src=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/11\/Gere.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3142\" style=\"width:305px;height:321px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/11\/Gere.png 296w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/11\/Gere-292x300.png 292w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/11\/Gere-50x50.png 50w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dr. Bryan O. Gere<br><\/strong>Rehabilitation<br>Associate Professor<br><a href=\"mailto:kdas@umes.edu\">bogere@umes.edu<\/a><br>Project: Developing a Strategic Plan to Enhance Employer Partner Relationships&nbsp; <br>Dean Mentor:&nbsp;Dr. Moses Kairo<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dr. Bryan O. Gere<\/strong> is an Associate Professor in the Department of Rehabilitation at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). He previously served as Graduate Program Director for the Master\u2019s in Rehabilitation program and brings over a decade of academic, clinical, and research experience to the field of rehabilitation and behavioral health. Before returning to his alma mater, Dr. Gere served as a faculty member at Alabama A&amp;M University, where he taught and conducted research in psychology and rehabilitation counseling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr. Gere earned his Ph.D. in Rehabilitation from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he was recognized with several distinguished honors, including the Dorothy Dykema Endowed Scholarship, the Lorenz\/Baker Award, and the Dissertation Research Award. He also holds an M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling from UMES, an MBA in Business Administration from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria, and an M.S. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Dr. Gere\u2019s scholarly work and grant-funded projects focus on mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and vocational rehabilitation outcomes. His teaching and research reflect a commitment to advancing equity, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration in rehabilitation education and practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-coblocks-dynamic-separator has-background has-header-secondary-bg-color-color is-style-fullwidth\" style=\"height:50px\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-hero-main-bg-color-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized coblocks-animate\" data-coblocks-animation=\"slideInLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"468\" height=\"467\" src=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/12\/Circle.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3154\" style=\"width:299px;height:302px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/12\/Circle.jpg 468w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/12\/Circle-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/12\/Circle-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/12\/Circle-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2025\/12\/Circle-50x50.jpg 50w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ms. Madhumi Mitra<br><\/strong>Natural Sciences<br><a href=\"mailto:mmitra@umes.edu\">mmitra@umes.edu<\/a><br>Project:&nbsp;Implementation of Strategies for Enhancing Faculty Onboarding and Advancing Faculty Well-Being<br>Dean Mentor:&nbsp;Mr. Chris Harrington<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dr. Madhumi Mitra <\/strong>is a tenured Professor of Biology and Environmental Sciences in the Department of Natural Sciences (DNS) at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), where she coordinates the Biology and Chemistry Education programs and mentors undergraduate and graduate students. She earned her Ph.D. in Botany from North Carolina State University, an M.S. in Botany from the University of Calcutta, a B.Sc. in Botany (Honors) with minors in Geology and Human Physiology from Presidency College, India, and a Master\u2019s in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. She also holds an Executive Certificate in Artificial Intelligence Strategy from Cornell University, and is currently completing the Leadership Maryland Executive Program (Class of 2025). With over 26 years of academic and research experience, she has secured more than $15 million in competitive grants from federal and state agencies. Her interdisciplinary research integrates artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture with emergent technologies, bioenergy, seaweeds, and space agriculture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr. Mitra currently serves as the Regional Editor of the International Journal of Ambient Energy (Taylor &amp; Francis) and as a Governor\u2019s appointee to the Maryland Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council. She exemplifies academic leadership and civic engagement across multiple disciplines. Within the American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE), she has held several key leadership roles, including serving as Newsletter Editor, Treasurer, Program Chair, and Division Chair of the Energy Conversion and Conservation and the Nuclear Engineering Division (ECCNED). Her mentees in Biology Education have gone on to become distinguished educators, earning accolades such as Wicomico County Teacher of the Year, Somerset County Teacher of the Year, Maryland State Teacher of the Year, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The recipient of numerous awards, ASEE Leadership Service Award, Dr. Mitra has published over 50 peer-reviewed papers. proceedings, and book chapters, and authored and co-edited two books: Practices and Perspectives in Sustainable Bioenergy (Springer, 2020) and Era of Artificial Intelligence (Taylor &amp; Francis, 2023). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A passionate advocate for experiential STEM education, she leads initiatives such as the USDA-funded Indoor Urban Sustainable Agriculture with Emergent Technologies (IUSAET) program and the Summer Enrichment Academy in Sustainable Agriculture and Robotics (SEASAR) to advance teacher training, innovation, and workforce development in sustainable technologies. Beyond academia, she is a certified Qigong and yoga teacher, a choreographer, and a student of Indian classical dance. Dr. Mitra has been a featured speaker at regional, national, and international conferences and events, blending science, leadership, and creativity to inspire holistic approaches to education, wellness, and sustainable innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-coblocks-dynamic-separator has-background has-header-secondary-bg-color-color is-style-fullwidth\" style=\"height:50px\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-hero-main-bg-color-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized is-style-rounded coblocks-animate\" data-coblocks-animation=\"slideInLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"312\" height=\"390\" src=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3259\" style=\"width:250px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-3.png 312w, https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/53\/2026\/02\/image-3-240x300.png 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 312px) 100vw, 312px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dr. Simon Zebelo<br><\/strong>Natural Science and Agriculture, Food and Resource Sciences<br><a href=\"mailto:sazebelo@umes.edu\">sazebelo@umes.edu<\/a><br>Project: Enhancing Student Success in UMES&#8217; Graduate Programs<br>Dean Mentor:&nbsp;Dr. Rondall Allen<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dr. Simon Zebelo<\/strong> is an Entomology and Plant Biology Professor in the Department of Natural Sciences and Agriculture, Food, and Resource Sciences at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Dr. Zebelo&#8217;s research interests focus on fundamental and applied aspects of insect behavior, chemical ecology, and integrated pest management (IPM). His basic research uses a broad-based multidisciplinary approach (analytical, behavioral, electrophysiological, and molecular techniques) to address fundamental questions in insect olfaction and plant-insect interactions. His applied research aims to develop and evaluate ecologically-based IPM programs for insect pests and deliver these programs to growers. In addition, Dr. Zebelo has transferred this knowledge to the classroom to enrich student learning and generate opportunities for students. Some of his current projects include: 1) Molecular and biochemical basis of microbe-mediated plant-insect interactions, 2) Insect pests of hemp and their impact on the level of cannabinoids, 3) developing and implementing trap crops that can be used in cucurbit production, 4) Enhancing pollinators in solar panel settings, and 5) the contribution of agricultural drainage ditches to the natural enemy ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-coblocks-dynamic-separator has-background has-header-secondary-bg-color-color is-style-fullwidth\" style=\"height:50px\"\/>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>PROJECTS Project I&nbsp; A.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 UMES Strategic Plan Priority and GoalUMES Strategic Priority III \u2013 Workforce and Economic Development\u00a0 Goal 3.7 &#8211; Partner with business and community leaders to better understand and address local and regional economic development needs.&nbsp; B.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Title: Develop a Strategic Plan to Enhance Employer Partner Relationships\u00a0 C.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 DescriptionThe Provost Faculty Fellows will&#8230;<span class=\"cpschool-read-more-link-holder\"><a class=\"btn btn-basic cpschool-read-more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/provost-faculty-fellows-program\/provost-faculty-fellows-program-cohort-2\/\">Read more <span class=\"sr-only\">Fellows Cohort II<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1236,"featured_media":0,"parent":2864,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","footnotes":""},"folder":[],"class_list":["post-3131","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3131","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1236"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3131"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3131\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2864"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3131"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wwwcp.umes.edu\/academic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/folder?post=3131"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}