SPP graduate student Lynn-Marie Edwards MPM '23 has been recognized with the Outstanding Graduate Student Distinguished Service award. Edwards’ commitment to academic excellence and her exceptional contributions to the UMD campus and surrounding community were instrumental in earning this prestigious honor.
Edwards has continuously served her school community throughout her time at UMD. She has made significant contributions as a teaching assistant, supporting faculty in preparing course materials and grading papers on crucial policy issues confronting the U.S. She also serves as a graduate assistant, guiding undergraduate students in appropriate course selection, providing updates on sustainability-related matters through a monthly newsletter and ensuring they meet the necessary graduation requirements. These efforts play a crucial role in students’ academic success.
Some of Edwards’ most rewarding experiences at UMD have come from her leadership positions. As a Do Good ambassador at the Do Good Institute during the 2021-2022 academic year, she championed various social impact initiatives, conducted workshops, coached undergraduate students in establishing their own social impact organizations and organized an event focused on trends in the nonprofit sector.
Edwards also serves on SPP’s Brody Board, a platform facilitating discussions on current policy issues and fostering networking opportunities for policy students. The board aims to extend learning beyond the confines of the classroom, encouraging students to engage actively in policy-related matters.
When asked what it feels like to win this award and to be recognized for the outstanding service she has given to her school community, Edwards exclaims, “This award is a source of pride and fulfillment for me, reminding me of the impact and value of my contributions. It inspires me to keep serving.”
When she initially arrived at UMD as an international student studying abroad for the first time, Edwards felt a strong sense of support from the university, particularly from the School of Public Policy and the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). Eager to pay it forward, she volunteered with ISSS as an international orientation leader in the fall of 2022. In this role, Edwards welcomed incoming international students, offering them guidance on all aspects of campus and off-campus life while addressing common concerns that international students often have.
One of Edwards' most memorable experiences as an international student was her role as the graduate representative on the International Student Advisory Board. In November 2022, she spearheaded the planning and execution of the largest fair for international students, faculty and staff at UMD, bringing together over three hundred attendees to celebrate the university's international diversity. This endeavor posed its challenges, given the board's recent establishment and limited size, but Edwards took pride in leading the team to realize this dream, witnessing the joy and satisfaction of international students as they engaged in games, enjoyed international cuisine, networked and socialized. She considers her involvement in fostering UMD's international community as a seed that will continue to grow and flourish in the years to come.
Edwards also serves as a graduate representative on the Senate Student Affairs Committee, advising on issues such as excused absences for mental health reasons, contributing her insights to improve student wellbeing on campus.
Through her various experiences, Edwards has acquired a comprehensive understanding of UMD policies and the university's extensive resources. She has become a trusted advisor for fellow students seeking guidance on navigating the sometimes complex system. Edwards expresses her gratitude to the University for the numerous opportunities provided to her, both as a student and as a leader. When speaking about what advice she would give to other students who want to make a positive impact on their university community and beyond, Edwards says: “I think making a positive impact begins with putting yourself forward and being willing to serve, even when you're new to a place.”
With her strong academic foundation and a diverse range of professional and leadership roles, Edwards exemplifies her deep commitment to leadership and public service. She firmly believes that obtaining her MPM, in addition to her personal and professional endeavors, will equip her to excel as a project coordinator or manager in institutions driven by social missions, such as governmental agencies or nonprofit organizations, continuing her legacy of service.