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For University of Maryland Global Campus’s 75th anniversary, we spoke with alumna Mary Anne Hakes about some of her favorite UMGC experiences and where she hopes to see the university in years to come. Hakes earned her master’s degree in marketing from UMGC in 1990. She was president of the UMGC Alumni Advisory Board from 1999 to 2000 and received the Edward A. Parnell Outstanding Alumna Award in 2004. Hakes was the director of physician alliance at Suburban Hospital before she retired. 

When you were applying to school, what made ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ standout (why did you select UMGC)?

It was convenient: flexible hours and a good location. Initially I was just interested in a few courses to broaden my horizons, but I ended up getting a bachelor’s and a master's.

What was your favorite part about studying at UMGC?

The real-life experiences of classmates and instructors who were currently employed in businesses and other fields and could relate outside of textbooks.

How has your ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ degrees helped you today?

It made me wiser in areas of business management as I was trying to transition from nursing.

Is there a quote that you feel best represents your time at UMGC or a quote you heard at ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ that meant something to you?

The many success stories from our graduates make me proud and encourage giving back so others can have opportunities.

If you had one word to describe your experience at UMGC, what would it be and why?

Easy to navigate, even in the 80s!

What one piece of advice would you want to share with ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ students as they pursue their educational goals?

Stick with it. Reach out if you need help.

UMGC is celebrating 75 years of excellence in education. What does that history mean to you? Why is it important?

It shows a commitment to scholarship and a desire to make it available to everyone, everywhere.

Where do you hope to see UMGC in the next 75 years?

Mostly online and teaching in real-time. The university's ability to be agile and develop courses as needed is a real plus. Working directly with employers to create specific workforces is important, as technology changes so quickly.