University System of Maryland at Hagerstown names new executive director

Jacob Ashby has been named the next executive director of the University System of Maryland at Hagerstown, according to a news release from the downtown institution.

The appointment comes after an extensive search chaired by Frostburg State University Vice President for Student Affairs Artie Travis and a search committee including local business and community leaders.

Ashby will serve as the third executive director for the regional higher education center and replaces Mark Halsey who retired in July, according to the release.

Why did the USMH search committee choose Ashby?

Ashby currently serves as the assistant dean of academic assessment and articulation at Frederick Community College. He has been employed in various roles at FCC since 2011, including a limited-term position as associate vice president of the center for teaching and learning, where he helped the institution navigate academic operations during the unprecedented pandemic, according to the release.

Ashby has taught as an adjunct instructor and a lecturer at both FCC and Hagerstown Community College.

“On behalf of the University System of Maryland, we are excited about Dr. Ashby joining USM-H as its next executive director,” Ronald Nowaczyk, president of Frostburg State University, the coordinating institution for USM-H, said in the news release. “His ties to the local community and region as well as his experience with and commitment to higher education will help USM-H address the educational needs for the residents and businesses in the region.”

Background:USMH leader retiring after decade on the job

Ashby said that he has tried to boost student achievement his entire career, and he said USMH is a good fit for him.

“The system’s regional higher education centers offer students an opportunity to access quality bachelor's and graduate degree programs with smaller class sizes, local access to academic support, and additional scholarships," he said in the release. "Creating the right environments for student learning and helping foster upward mobility for students is something I have dedicated my professional life to within the region.

"I look forward to partnering with the committed advisory board, FSU, university partners, local community leaders, and local businesses to expand educational opportunities and help students achieve their educational goals at USM-H.”

What is Ashby's own educational background, and when will he start?

Ashby earned his doctorate in organizational leadership in higher education from Shenandoah University in Virginia, his master’s in integrated marketing communications from West Virginia University, and his bachelor’s in business administration and marketing from Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania. He began his education at HCC.

Ashby will officially assume his position on April 5, according to the news release.

Lisa McCulloh, business manager, will serve as the interim until that time.

Lawrence Weill served as interim executive director from August through February.

USMH is a regional higher education center that offers upper-division-undergraduate and graduate academic programs from universities within the University System of Maryland.

The institution works collaboratively to develop innovative partnerships with local community colleges, businesses and civic leaders to ensure access and affordability through a seamless and quality learning experience for students in the region.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Jacob Ashby takes over as USMH leader