Mon, 20 Oct 2003 04:00:00 -0400
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A Voice for Students in Maryland

In a time of budget challenges for Maryland, UMBC is fortunate to have an experienced voice for students’ interests as a member of the University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents. Phil Shockley, only the second UMBC student to be named to the governing body for the 11-campus system, was appointed by Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich in July for a one-year term.

“Phil Shockley has already begun his career in public service, demonstrated by his various academic and community accomplishments,” said Ehrlich. “His dedication to his fellow students will serve as an asset to the Board.”

“I hope to not only represent the student voice, but also represent those who have a vested interest in the future of higher education in Maryland,” Shockley says. “Having a chance to shape the future of higher education in this state is an awesome opportunity.”

Shockley’s goals for his term include improving communication between the Board and student governments at all System schools and working to increase financial aid available to all students in the midst of significant tuition increases throughout the System.

“I have found that one of UMBC’s core values is making each student feel special, and I want to bring that approach to my position on the Board of Regents,” said Shockley. “I hope to ensure my fellow students that their voice will not only be heard, but listened to as well.”

Shockley, a native of Snow Hill on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, has already learned how to work with both sides of the political spectrum. He previously interned with Democratic former Governor Parris Glendening and former Lieutenant Governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, while being appointed by Ehrlich, a Republican.

Shockley also has extensive student government experience, having served as UMBC Student Government Association president from 2002 to 2003. He will graduate next year with a BS in information systems, a BA in political science, and a certificate in public administration and policy.

Shockley is a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society, the Honors College at UMBC, and interned as a business analyst in the summer of 2001 with T. Rowe Price. Shockley is also a T. Rowe Price scholar and received several other scholarships including the Byrd Scholarship from the Maryland Department of Education.

Shockley’s post-graduation plans include law school followed by entering the political realm. His ultimate future goal is to one day become Governor of Maryland, and possibly the President of the United States. But for now his focus is on representing his fellow students.