Announcements and Democracy Digest

Posted: April 2024

On April 25, MDI's investigative partners at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism released its first-ever Maryland Local News Ecosystem Study, which examines the state of local news in Maryland.

The report includes a landscape assessment aimed at identifying all the outlets offering news and information in the state; a content analysis of those outlets offering news; a comprehensive survey of editors and news directors regarding their needs, challenges, staffing and finances; and thumbnail descriptions of each local news outlet in Maryland. 

Access to news and information is at the heart of a thriving democracy.

Posted: April 2024

University of Maryland alum's two $100,000 gifts to UMD will support voter mobilization efforts, establishing the Laufer Democracy Internship as part of the teaching and learning pillar of the Maryland Democracy Initiative. With a critical election approaching this fall, the gifts from Marsha and Henry Laufer will accelerate efforts across UMD to strengthen democracy and dramatically accelerate UMD’s work in this area. The gift will support the Laufer Democracy Internship Program, a prestigious opportunity for 18 top UMD students to receive summer funding to work in some of the most impactful organizations in the nation working to strengthen voter mobilization and voter education in colleges and schools. Learn more.

Posted: March 2024

Civic Engagement Across the Curriculum (CEAC) at UMD -  a new professional development program funded by a grant from the University System of Maryland. The program is designed to support the integration of civic engagement experiences into any planned or designed course. This program is open to all UMD faculty and staff who will be teaching a course in 2024-2025 or 2025-2026, where they could directly add and/or enhance components of civic engagement or community-based learning. There are two options for engagement in this program: an online course or a combination of the online course and a summer seminar. Those completing the online course + the summer seminar are eligible for a stipend of approximately $700. Learn more about the two CEAC program options. Register for the CEAC information session on April 2. 

Posted: March 2024

The Maryland Democracy Initiative congratulates Dr. Sarah McGrew, MDI team member and Assistant Professor, Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership in the College of Education, who received the Harry J. Carman Award at the 2024 Middle States Council for the Social Studies Annual Conference. This award is presented to an outstanding college professor who supports social studies through effective research, teaching, integrity, service, and professional excellence.

Posted: February 2024

Calling all change-makers! Dive into the heart of democracy with the paid Laufer Democracy Summer Internship program! Our hybrid, full-time positions in the vibrant DC metropolitan area offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the intricate workings of our democracy. Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors should apply by March 5 for best consideration. More information and application form -  Laufer Democracy Intern.

Posted: February 2024

Lena Morreale Scott, MDI lead Principal Investigator and Co-chair of the Maryland Civic Education Coalition (MDCEC), joined MDCEC colleagues and youth advisory council members, as well as Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation Secretary, Paul Monteiro, to testify in the Maryland General Assembly on behalf of SB 762: Maryland Civic Excellence Program. SB 762 would establish a voluntary program in which school systems can recognize students and public schools for their civic readiness and civic engagement efforts. Bill sponsors in the Senate: Senator Cheryl Kegan (District 17) and Senator Justin Ready (District 5).