The Connection
Welcome to The Connection, the monthly OPC newsletter designed to connect employees to the people, updates, and moments that shape our Loyola community. Each issue offers a chance to learn about new colleagues, upcoming and recent events, and highlights from across the university, bringing what matters most right to you.
Welcome to Greyhound Nation
Congratulations March new hires!
Francie Davenport Director Advancement Communications
Advancement
Jenny TorresAffiliate Instructor
Academic Affairs
Hound Highlights
AMDG Award Recipients
Congratulations to the 2026 AMDG Award recipients! Brendan Sweeney Christina Spearman (Staff) (Administrator)
Learn more about Brendan and Christina's contributions to the Loyola commuity on the
AMDG website.
We also extend an honorable mention to the exceptional pool of nominees this year.
Staff Nominees: Brett Fisher, Cindy Rohnacher, Cyndy Cowles, Deb Mitchell, James (Gregory) Roy, Jessi Ceiri, Michael Clark, Nadine Fenchak
Administrator Nominees: Brigid Hamilton, Deborah (Debbie) Miller, Heather Moore, Heather Schmidt, Heidi Fuentes, Jennifer Sullivan, Jill Eigenbrode, Nicole Jacobs, Tom Breiner
Service Anniversary Milestone Honorees
Loyola University Maryland recognized employees who reached service anniversary milestones during the Maryland Day President's Milestone Breakfast, held as part of Mission Week. This longstanding tradition honors members of our community whose years of service reflect a deep commitment to Loyola’s mission, values, and Jesuit identity.
We extend our sincere congratulations and gratitude to all honorees for their continued dedication and service.
View the full list of 2026 Maryland Day Milestone Honorees on the Service Awards website.
Inspired to celebrate the incredible work happening all around us?
Submit your colleague to be recognized in The Connection newsletter!
Use the Hound Highlight form to nominate faculty, staff, and administrators who:
- Strengthen the Loyola community through everyday actions or special efforts that benefit students and colleagues.
- Demonstrate leadership in their role as an individual contributor or manager.
Magis Moment
“Never limit yourself because of others’ limited imagination; never limit others because of your own limited imagination.” — Mae Jemison, First African American Female AstronautWhat's New?
Women's History Month
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we honor the achievements, resilience, and
lasting contributions of women throughout history and in our communities today. Let’s
take this opportunity to learn, reflect, connect, and show appreciation for the impact
women have made, and continue to make on our shared experiences.
What's Happening?
"Great Colleges to Work For" Survey 
Complete the "Great College to Work For" survey to help Loyola earn the designation
from the Chronicle of Higher Education and become a destination employer!
The deadline to complete the survey has been expended to March 27, 2026. Survey results
will be used as a measure of faculty, staff, and administrator job satisfaction.
Learn more about past surveys on the OPC website → Employee Engagement → Surveys.
2026 Annual Performance Evaluation Process
It is annual performance evaluation season! Second level manager approval is due by March 27, 2026. Check out the following available resources as you navigate the evaluation process:- Timeline and FAQs are available on the Performance Evaluation website
- LinkedIn Learning and the Employee Development website for professional development plans
- Employee Assistance Program
- OPC Business Partner
What's Next?
Benefits Open Enrollment
Mark your calendar - the annual period for employees to review, update, and elect
benefit options for the next plan year opens on April 27, 2026. More details coming
soon.
Stay connected!
