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America's Best Leaders: Freeman Hrabowski, University of Maryland-Baltimore County

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Dr. Hrabowski inspired me to step out of my own comfort area. When I learned of the work that he was pushing with young men in Baltimore City, I myself signed on to be a teacher in urban Philadelphia. My experiences can not be replicated, and I can't help but think to myself that it would have all been impossible had I not had the chance to attend UMBC and to be in the presence of Dr. Hrabowski and the rest of the outstanding UMBC faculty. Kudos to you, Dr. Hrabowski!

Pamela Greenlee of PA 4:08PM December 03, 2008

President Dr. Hrabowski has been an outstanding leader for all groups on campus at UMBC as well as for many other institutions, programs and individuals on a global scale. I am a staff member, Co-Chair of the President's Commission for Women, as well as a graduate of the ACTiVATE program that teaches women to start technology companies. In all areas Dr. Hrabowski has provided strong support and the kind of exceptional leadership we all need in moving forward. Dr. Hrabowski is always encouraging us to move to a higher level in our own lives as we reach out to help others. Dr. Hrabowski sets and example we all should follow and he has certainly earned the honor of America's Best Leader.

Lorraine Charity, M.B.A. of MD 10:05AM December 02, 2008

As one of the proteges of Dr. Hrabowski, I think what makes him unique is his genuine commitment and passion to make this world a better place than he came to find it.He believes in making a positive difference in people's lives without expecting any rewards. One of the keys to his success is that he listens without being judgmental, knows how to elicit a response without coercion and provides guidance with compassion. He treats people with respect and as such he does not have to ask for it. He is empathetic but does not compromise on a drive for excellence and good moral values for himself or others.
All you need to be convinced about these attributes is to walk across the UMBC campus with him (rain or shine) and watch his interaction with students, faculty and staff. If you are not yet convinced, follow him to a national conference/meeting of his peers and watch how he interacts with them. A fellow president at a Midwest public university made an unsolicited statement about him: "Dr. Hrabowski is known not only for what he has accomplished but for the person he is!" That says it all and I CONCUR. We need more leaders like Dr. Freeman Hrabowski.

Dan Wubah of FL 4:44PM December 01, 2008

Dr. Hrabowski deserves all of kudos he receives. On a very personal note, as a faculty member at UMBC, Freeman took his precious time to help me through some very difficult personal problems, for which I am extremely grateful. I am proud to be a member of the UMBC community that Dr. Hrabowski heads with passion, heart, and mind. You always wonder how real leaders are that you read about; well, this one is for real.

L. Larrabee Strow of MD 10:05AM December 01, 2008

To describe Dr. Hrabowski with simply one word of leader does not properly characterize the convictions, passion, fervor, enthusiasm, and love that Dr. Hrabowski exudes in all of his endeavors and encounters. His personality is so infectious and heart so genuine that he could inspire and motivate anyone to "reach beyond their grasp." Additionally his focus on excellence has made UMBC and the Meyerhoff Scholars Program the pinnacle of academic excellence, social responsibility and compassionate humanity. I am very grateful to have been and continue to be a part of that experience as a student, staff member and mentee.

Oliver J. Myers of MS 7:56AM November 26, 2008

Never have I met a more sincere and authentic human being in my life. An unconditional educator, leader, president, and friend, Dr. Hrabowski's commitment and dedication to the ability of people is motivating and touching. So often we speak about what leadership is and/or what it should do. Instead of theorizing about it, we need only to look at Dr. Hrabowski and his unbelivable talent to expand everyone's capacity that he comes in contact with to see leadership in action.

David L. Heiber of MD 11:37PM November 24, 2008

Dr. Hrabowski is both a friend and classmate who recruited both of my children to the Meyerhoff Program from prestigious schools that were willing to fund their education. I realized early on that UMBC was unique in it's ability to provide unparalleled experience and education. The all encompassing focus of excellence, responsibility and duty to one's self and community inspires even the parents of scholars and alumni to get involved.
I readily join all of the others who celebrate and acknowledge Dr Hrabowski and his mission. As I have told him personally, I am reminded of a quote attributed to Phillip of Macedonia upon hearing that he had a son. He approached Aristole and said "I am not so grateful that I have a son but rather that he was born in an age with you." With that, Aristole undertook the education of Phillip's son Alexander, later Alexander the Great.

John Brooks, Jr. of VA 9:58AM November 24, 2008

Freeman Hrabowski is more than an outstanding President of the University of Maryland Baltimore County and outstanding member of the leadership team of the University System of Maryland, Freeman Hrabowki is the compleat role model of the successful president: rapport with students, faculty, and alumni, fund-raiser, and advocate for higher education among the community of public and private decision makers. He is a visionary leader who understands what education can achieve, and the challenges education faces. He is a realist who faces challenges as an opportunity not to be missed. Most of all, Freeman Hrabowksi is a role model for all of us in the Academy: outgoing, cordial, open, candid, and willing to take the time to explain his positions and needs to all who will listen, and to persevere to addres the reluctant listener.

Gaylen Bradley of PA 11:50AM November 21, 2008

Having been a student when Dr, Hrabowski came to UMBC in 1987 and now a member of the Alumni Association Board, I can attest to the absolutely amazing transformation that the university has undergone under his stewardship. There are very few people who have the gift to inspire a commitment to excellence as does Dr. Hrabowski.
...and just so no one is left thinking that his interest lies solely in the sciences, proof that he is committed to a fully rounded education for all students is evidenced by UMBC's soon-to-be-built multi-million dollar arts building in which every student will attend class at some point in their academic career.

Bennett Moe of 9:43AM November 21, 2008