Seahawk Athletics
Dodge PerformingA Message from the President
St. Mary’s College of Maryland is the nation’s first stand-alone honors college with a long tradition of providing excellence in education. Joining as the eighth President July 1, 2025, is truly an honor, and a privilege, to work with distinguished faculty and board members, highly motivated students, dedicated staff and engaged alums. Further, SMCM is positioned in an unparalleled location in a state supportive of higher education and co-located with a historic treasure in Historic St. Mary’s City. A major asset to our location is that of the nearby Pax River Naval Air Station. All these factors combine to present the opportunity to enhance and position SMCM for an even brighter, stronger future. Together, we will achieve new heights.
The 100 Day Listening Tour included many meetings from one-on-one discussions to large groups to receptions for alums, students, staff and faculty. Additionally, it included an intense 38-day communications and outreach plan to connect with community members, alums and other external stakeholders. The idea behind the tour was to provide opportunity for me to learn as much as possible by meeting with those who are part of the SMCM community. In total, there were over 265 meetings conducted over the 100-day period, with 105 of those specifically for the listening tour. Of course, the conversations for the other meetings often centered on my learning. Hundreds of people attended and nearly 200 provided feedback via the online listening tour link, connected to the Office of the President webpage for which there were over 1,300 visits during the timeframe.
Updated Jan. 13, 2026: I have summarized in the report linked below some of the perspectives of our students, alumni, staff, faculty and trustees, and the many elected officials and community members who contribute to this very special community. The report is categorized by major topics, and includes initial actions which have been taken to address pressing issues. Now we are starting the next phase of strategic planning, in alignment with the collective feedback shared these past few months.
More updates and opportunities to make your voices heard will take place as we work through the strategic planning process during the spring semester.
Upcoming Opportunities to Meet President Phillips
Tuesday
September 16
7 p.m. - 8:15 p.m.
Nancy R. and Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center - Concert Hall
Constitution Day Lecture
President Phillips will be attending the 2025 Constitution Day Lecture delivered by Jamelle Bouie. This event is open to all.
Wednesday
September 24
5-6:30 p.m.
Greenwell Foundation
St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours
Local business leaders can meet President Rhonda Phillips at the St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Event.
First 100 Days Listening Tour
Over my first 100 days, I've had the pleasure of meeting with Students, Staff, Faculty, State Legislature, State Government, County Government, Board of Trustees, SMCM Foundation Board, Peer Institutions, Parents, Alumni, Local Community Leaders. Below is a list of who I've met with. It will grow as I meet more and more of you over the rest of the 100 days and beyond.
