Maryland Governor Wes Moore had some inspiring words for Salisbury University students when he visited campus on his 100th day in office. Talking to political science majors and students in SU’s Multicultural Alliance, he shared the importance of community engagement and encouraged them to shape the future of the state.
SU students were excited to have the opportunity to talk one-on-one with the state’s highest ranking official. Ihemanma Ugo-Akwada said that as a Black political science major, it was amazing to hear the perspective of a current, Black political figure.
“During my recent political science course, we looked at American policies with an intersectional lens and how legislation and aspects of government impact different social groups,” Ugo-Akwada said. “So, to talk to a governor who is actively striving for equity and challenging those barriers that groups face made my time in my class come full circle.”
SU Director of Multicultural Affairs Vanice Antrum said there was an audible cheer when Gov. Moore came around the corner of SU’s Wight Center for Equity, Justice and Inclusion because the students were so excited.
“It meant a lot that he took time to shake hands, take pictures and have conversations with the students,” she said. “He also spent a time talking with them about how much they are needed and valued in our state. It meant a lot because we know that the Governor and his administration value diversity and we hope this will lead to further opportunities for our students.”
Students taking courses on state and local government, American public policy, public administration, and civil rights/liberties all got a chance to meet the Governor. Dr. Adam Hoffman, professor of political science, said his students explored the Governor’s priorities for the legislative session in the week preceding his visit.
Dr. Michelle Fletcher, assistant professor of political science, added: “My students enjoyed hearing him discuss his policy agenda. The topics discussed during the meeting overlap with my course instruction in public policy, constitutional law and policy implementation.”
Ugo-Akwada echoed how much the visit meant to students.
“I am very interested in improving opportunities for people of color,” she said, “and seeing someone who looks like me in the office and talking about issues that I am also passionate about emboldens me as a student.”
Earlier in the semester the Governor spoke with students presenting at SU’s Posters on the Bay event in Annapolis. They shared their research with him, as well as SU alumni and others.
Gov. Moore wasn’t the only Maryland official to visit campus recently: Newly elected Comptroller Brooke Lierman also toured SU, meeting with SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre and talking with students, faculty and staff.
