Partnership Council

The Partnership Council is a new approach to how degree programs are offered on USG’s campus. It is designed to strengthen collaboration and communication between University System of Maryland (USM) partner institutions, connect degree pathways to career preparation, and advance shared decision-making across the System to center student success. 

As the council moves forward into its role as a governance body at USG, it will replace the Academic Program Advisory Committee.  Currently, the council members are meeting to develop policies and processes to secure approval from provosts and System officials.  

Purpose

The Partnership Council provides a forum for academic leaders from each partner university to engage with USG leadership in planning and decision-making related to academic programs and initiatives.

The council focuses on aligning program offerings with institutional priorities, regional workforce needs, and USG’s mission to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality educational pathways.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Council is charged with:

• Developing a 3–5 Year Academic Plan that identifies strategic academic priorities and guides program development at USG.
• Establishing a Collaborative Review Process and annual timeline for evaluating new academic program opportunities identified through USG’s academic planning process and industry sector framework. 
• Strengthening Communication Channels between university provosts, deans, department chairs, and USG program directors.
• Facilitating Regular Convenings with USG leadership and university provosts.
• Encouraging Faculty and Staff Engagement in USG industry sector hub  meetings and collaborative initiatives.

Membership

Partner university deans or provosts appoint two representatives to the Partnership Council. Members should hold leadership roles within the provost’s office, as a dean, or as a department chair — individuals empowered to participate in academic decision-making. USG and USM appointees are leading the discussion and work of the council, led by Dr. Alison Wrynn, Dr. Anne Khademian, and Mary Lang.