Outstanding Service Award

The University of Maryland College Park Foundation annually presents its Outstanding Service Award to an individual whose support of the University has helped it to achieve its current status as one of the top research universities in the country. These award recipients, both dedicated alumni and honorary Terps, have made important contributions to the University of Maryland, its surrounding community, our state and beyond.

2024 Recipient: Delegate Ben Barnes

Delegate Ben Barnes

Delegate Ben Barnes has served in the Maryland House of Delegates for nearly 20 years, serving District 21 representing Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties. Prior to becoming Chair of the Appropriations Committee in 2022, Delegate Barnes served as Chair of the Education and Economic Development Subcommittee as well as Chair of the Capital Budget Subcommittee. In these roles, Delegate Barnes has been instrumental in securing funding for the University of Maryland through projects including the Health and Human Sciences Complex; Thurgood Marshall Hall, home to our School of Public Policy; and the Chemistry Building. Perhaps most importantly, Delegate Barnes has been a champion of need based financial aid, ensuring Maryland students have access to and opportunity in higher education.

2024 Recipient: First Lady Dawn Moore

First Lady Dawn Moore

First Lady Dawn Moore is a proud graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, holding a degree in Government and Politics and a certificate in Women’s Studies. After graduating from UMD, First Lady Moore dedicated her life to government relations and non-profit work where she has served as a dynamic and engaging leader through building corporate partnerships, community organizing, campaign strategy, and fundraising. First Lady Moore is passionate about empowering women, fostering economic opportunity, and championing the arts.


Previous Outstanding Service Award Recipients