DR. THORNE'S WELCOME
GREETINGS ALUMNAE,
PARENTS, AND FRIENDS OF HONORS
from University Honors Director Barbara Thorne
The University of Maryland's Honors program began in 1966 under the inspirational and visionary leadership of Dr. John Portz. By our calculation there are now over 9000 Honors graduates.
The vital signs of today's University Honors program are extremely vigorous. The popularity of Honors and the University of Maryland reflects broad recognition of our academic excellence, phenomenal peer group, and strong community. We anticipate a terrific year with over 3000 wonderful Honors students on campus. Please explore this website to get a sense of the exciting diversity of Honors' academic and extra-curricular programs as well as the impressive accomplishments of our talented students.
My philosophy as the very lucky Director of University Honors is simple. Opportunities provided and investments made in these exceptional students now will multiply to yield immeasurable personal and professional contributions in years to come. Creating a buffet of sophisticated academic offerings for these wonderful students; allowing them to learn, live, and laugh together with a diverse group of bright peers; and facilitating opportunities for them to meet outstanding faculty in and out of the classroom are the fundamentals of this highly successful program. The Honors program provides intellectual stimulation, freedom, choice, mentorship, and community. The students think, thrive, mature, support one another in times of need, and go on to satisfying and productive lives that were positively influenced by their Honors friends and experiences. The Honors faculty and staff consider it our privilege to work towards this mission on behalf of our beloved, amazing students.
Sincerely,
Barbara Thorne, Professor and Director
