University of Baltimore Students Experience Government in Action During Day in Annapolis

Annapolis, MD – For the past 25 years, the University of Baltimore (UBalt) has hosted a “Day in Annapolis” event, providing students with a firsthand look at the Maryland state government in action during the General Assembly. This year’s event, held on February 19, 2026, drew approximately 70 students, exceeding capacity and resulting in a waitlist, demonstrating a growing interest in civic engagement among the UBalt student body.

A Tradition of Civic Engagement

The annual event is a collaborative effort between UBalt’s Office of Government and Public Affairs, the William Donald Schaefer Center for Public Policy, and the Rosenberg Center for Student Engagement and Involvement. Students participating in the Day in Annapolis had the opportunity to tour the Maryland State House, observe live sessions of the House and Senate, and hear from a diverse group of speakers, including UBalt alumni working in various roles within state government.

Witnessing Policymaking Firsthand

Ivan Sascha Sheehan, interim dean for UBalt’s College of Public Affairs, emphasized the value of the experience, stating that it “bridges the gap between classroom learning and the lived realities of policymaking.” He noted how concepts discussed in academic settings – such as coalition-building, governance structures, and ethical decision-making – develop into more tangible when observed in a real-world political environment.

Bill Signing and Alumni Insights

This year’s Day in Annapolis was particularly memorable as students witnessed the signing of a bill prohibiting Maryland jurisdictions from deputizing officers for federal civil immigration enforcement. Delegates Regina T. Boyce, MPA ‘14, District 43A, and Adrian Boafo, B.A. ‘16, District 23, sponsored the bill. Governor Wes Moore signed the bill into law while students were present, and John Willis, a research fellow at the College of Public Affairs, provided an impromptu explanation of the bill signing process.

Throughout the day, students interacted with numerous UBalt alumni who have established careers in public service. Malcolm Ruff, J.D. ‘11, representing District 41, shared his journey from growing up in Baltimore’s Park Heights neighborhood to serving as a state delegate. Manny Welsh, MPA ‘16, deputy chief of staff for the Maryland Governor’s Office, highlighted the unmatched value of UBalt’s faculty, staff, and mentors.

Inspiring Future Public Servants

The event resonated with students aspiring to careers in public service. Yvonne Cox, an MPA student focused on public policy, expressed her inspiration after touring the State House and hopes to one day serve as a delegate or senator advocating for the needs of Baltimore’s youth. Students like Justice Dangerfield, a B.A. In Policy, Politics and International Affairs student, and Hammna Asif, also a B.A. In Policy, Politics and International Affairs student, found the experience solidified their career aspirations. Tinatin Guruli, a M.S. In Negotiations and Conflict Management student, gained new insights into immigration law.

UBalt’s Commitment to Civic Engagement

The Day in Annapolis is just one example of UBalt’s broader commitment to civic engagement. The University’s NextGen Leaders for Public Service program connects students with paid internships in public service roles. UBalt has also received recognition for its voter participation efforts, earning accolades from the ALL-IN Challenge and a 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement.

“At The University of Baltimore, civic engagement is not peripheral to our mission—it is central to it,” Sheehan said. Nicole Marano, vice president for student success and chief student affairs officer, added that the goal is to see more UBalt students transition into public service roles and build a positive impact on the lives of Marylanders.

About the Maryland State House

The Maryland State House, located in Annapolis, is the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, dating back to 1772. It served as the capitol building of the United States Congress of the Confederation in 1783 and 1784 and is where Ratification Day, marking the formal finish of the American Revolutionary War, occurred. The building is topped by the largest wooden dome in the United States constructed without nails.