UMD INFO College Vision, Diversity, and History

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TerrapinSTRONG is a shared vision for the entire campus community — a shared understanding and set of values from which we work to improve the sense of community, connection, and inclusion on our campus.

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Vision

We envision a world where information and technology break down barriers and create exciting new possibilities so that individuals, communities, and organizations can explore their full potential and enjoy an enriched quality of life – a world where information and technology can be fully leveraged to solve real-world problems and foster a culture of trust and respect.

Mission

We improve lives and opportunities for people through information. With groundbreaking research and innovative academic programs, we strengthen information institutions, foster responsible information use, increase information reliability, and ensure equitable access to information. We harness data and technology for social, economic, and environmental good. We prepare the next generation of information professionals and thought leaders. We harness information for the benefit of all.

Strategic Plan

The UMD INFO College’s 2019 strategic plan identifies four focus areas to guide research and academic growth:

  1. Support information institutions and infrastructures
  2. Increase trustworthy information
  3. Democratize discovery
  4. Support data and tech for social good

Full Strategic Plan

Diversity & Inclusion at the INFO College

With a history of activism, the UMD INFO College continues today to champion accessibility, diversity, inclusion, and democratization of information. Our faculty, staff, and 2600+ students come to us from over 61 countries and create a welcoming and encouraging environment. 43% of our students identify as female and 66% of our students identify as Asian (29%), Black (24%), Hispanic/Latino (9%), American Indian or Alaskan Native (<1%), Pacific Islander (<1%), or Biracial (4%). Diversity and inclusion are central to the mission of the college, with many of our courses, research projects, events, and community partnerships designed to address challenges and promote inclusion of historically excluded communities.

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History & Timeline

The UMD INFO College is proud of its 50+ years of educating and providing thought leadership for information professionals.