Student Life

Parent University

Overview

PARENT UNIVERSITY OVERVIEW

UMES Parent University is a comprehensive parent and family engagement initiative designed to strengthen the partnership between the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and the families who support our students. Through a series of informative, interactive, and engaging sessions, Parent University provides parents and families with essential information about the college experience, university policies and processes, student development, academic success, financial planning, wellness, and campus resources.

The program is designed to help families better understand their evolving role as supporters and partners in their student’s educational journey. Each session will connect parents and families with University leaders, subject-matter experts, and campus resources while equipping them with practical knowledge and tools to support student success.

Parent University will also provide opportunities for families to connect with the UMES community, ask questions, and gain a greater understanding of the resources and experiences available to their students throughout their collegiate journey.

Faculty

MEET YOUR PARENT UNIVERSITY FACULTY

Dr. Brian Clemmons
Vice President, Enrollment Management and Student Experience

Dr. Reginald Garcon
Associate Vice President and Registrar

Dr. April Johnson
Associate Vice President

Dr. D. Jamar Simmons
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students

Fall 2026 Sessions

FALL SEMESTER 2026 SESSIONS

SEPTEMBER 29, 6:00–8:00 P.M.
Understanding Student Conduct and Residential Life
Instructors: Dr. April Johnson, Dr. D. Jamar Simmons

This session will provide parents and families with an overview of the University’s expectations for student behavior and community living. Participants will learn about the Student Conduct process, student rights and responsibilities, behavioral expectations, and how the University addresses potential policy violations. The session will also provide important information regarding residential living, housing expectations, and the shared responsibility of maintaining safe and respectful residential communities.

Focus: Student Conduct and Community Standards, Residence Life

Join the Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2609098287?pwd=aD

Meeting ID: 260 909 8287

Passcode: 234117

OCTOBER 20, 6:00–8:00 P.M.
Beyond the Classroom: Campus Engagement and Career Readiness
Instructors: Dr. April Johnson, Dr. D. Jamar Simmons

College success extends beyond the classroom. This session will highlight the importance of student involvement, leadership development, campus engagement, and career preparation. Parents and families will learn how parents and families can contribute to belonging, leadership development, personal growth, and career readiness of their students. The session will also introduce important Career Services resources that support students as they explore career options, prepare for internships, and develop professional skills.

Focus: Student Organizations, Leadership Development, Career Services, Student Engagement

Join the Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2609098287?pwd=aD

Meeting ID: 260 909 8287

Passcode: 234117

NOVEMBER 11, 6:00–8:00 P.M.
Navigating Academic Planning, Registration, and Paying for College
Instructor: Dr. Reginald Garcon

This comprehensive session will help parents and families better understand the academic and financial processes that support a student’s continued enrollment and progress toward graduation. Families will receive information regarding FERPA and the appropriate role of parents in supporting students as they make academic decisions. The session will also address degree planning, registration, academic standing, and common barriers such as registration holds. Additionally, participants will receive guidance related to financial aid, scholarships, payment plans, budgeting, managing college expenses, and avoiding excessive student debt.

Focus: Academic Planning, Registration, FERPA, Financial Aid, Scholarships, Payment Plans

Join the Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2609098287?pwd=aD

Meeting ID: 260 909 8287

Passcode: 234117

DECEMBER (Date and Time TBD)
UMES Parent University Virtual Holiday Celebration
Instructors: UMES Parent University Team

Parent University participants from all cohorts will come together for a virtual holiday celebration designed to strengthen relationships and build community among UMES families. The event will provide an opportunity for families to connect with University representatives, celebrate the accomplishments of the semester, receive important updates, and prepare for the upcoming spring semester.

Focus: Parent and Family Engagement, Community Building, University Updates

Join the Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2609098287?pwd=aD

Meeting ID: 260 909 8287

Passcode: 234117

Helping Your Hawk Soar

HELPING YOUR HAWK SOAR ABOVE & BEYOND
From the Dean of Students

The transition to college is one of the most significant periods of personal growth in a student’s life. Students will develop academically, socially, emotionally, and professionally while learning independence and responsibility.

The Office of the Dean of Students is committed to ensuring every student has access to the resources, support systems, and opportunities necessary to thrive. We partner with students, families, faculty, and staff to remove barriers, solve problems, and create an environment where every Hawk can succeed.

At UMES, every student matters.

The Office of the Dean of Students is committed to helping students overcome obstacles, build resilience, discover their purpose, and achieve success inside and outside the classroom through advocacy, mentorship, support, and connection.

WHAT DOES THE DEAN OF STUDENTS OFFICE DO?

The Office of the Dean of Students serves as a central resource for students experiencing challenges both inside and outside the classroom.

We provide: