Almost fifty years ago, a high school student followed his appreciation of art and science to study architecture at UMD, where he took a part-time job in the Department of Physical Plant, the forerunner of Facilities Management (FM). On June 27, that student, Arshad Mughal, will wrap up his FM career—a career that resulted in key contributions to more than one-third of the building spaces on the College Park campus.
From Student Job to Lasting Impact
During his early years in the department, while working toward a master’s degree in urban planning, Arshad focused on space planning and small renovation projects. He also found himself unexpectedly involved in another aspect of department life—the FM softball team! More experienced in soccer than softball, he was nevertheless drafted to the team. “I had never played softball in my life, so they put me in as catcher—turns out, that’s the one position that’s involved in every play!” Arshad said, laughing at the memory.
From the softball field to the planning table, Arshad is still involved in many of FM’s big plays. His work in FM’s Planning & Construction unit is vital to the campus’s continued growth. He advises university leadership on the capital budget and provides data to justify investments in new buildings and major renovations. He also contributed to the development of Campus Facilities Plans.
Shaping the Campus—and the Future
But his work doesn’t just shape buildings and campus growth—it helps shape the future of research at UMD. Through strategic planning and close coordination with stakeholders, Arshad has helped develop the facilities that support faculty and research success. “I’ve been amazed by some of the things our faculty do,” he says, citing projects ranging from medical research to battery technology to climate science. “My job is to document these things so when we ask for money from the General Assembly, they can see what their money is doing.”
When UMD President Pines recently asked how many projects he had worked on, he did the math. “It’s been 35 new buildings and additions and 15 major renovations,” he shared. And that doesn’t include the many small renovations. In 2012, he was awarded the President’s Distinguished Service Award for his efforts on behalf of the university.
More Than Just Buildings—Meaningful Moments
Among the many buildings that Arshad worked on, the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center stands out as a favorite. Completed in 2000, the project was particularly memorable because the architect was chosen through the unusual process of a design competition, drawing entries from both the U.S. and abroad. “And I’ve had other projects that are so impactful,” he adds. “Clark Hall, Zupnik Hall, now under construction, or the Chemistry Wing, where researchers are doing such amazing things.”
After decades of supporting UMD’s growth, Arshad takes pride in not just the projects he’s helped shape, but the memories and meaning they hold. “I used to bring my kids to campus and say, ‘I worked on that building.’ And they were always impressed—well, sometimes!” he added with a smile.
A Legacy of Patience, Integrity, and Trust
But perhaps the most enduring part of his legacy is how deeply respected and liked he is by those who have worked alongside him. “He has all the answers!” said Rebecca Arnold, Assistant Director for Campus Development, who has worked closely with Arshad and will take on some of his responsibilities. “He never makes you feel like you're asking too much. He listens, explains clearly, and brings incredible patience to everything he does.” She affectionately called him the “Jedi Master of Capital Planning and Programming, Wielder of Institutional Knowledge.”
Warren Kelley, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, echoed those sentiments. “I trust his judgment and his integrity,” he said. “I’ve emailed Arshad hundreds of times over many years about challenging projects, difficult timelines, and he is unique in that he never gets perturbed. Always thoughtful, always helpful.”
Kelley also reflected on the personal connection they’ve built over the decades. “Recently, I called him with a question that could have been handled by email. But I called twice—because I just looked forward to talking with him.”
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
But Arshad’s fondest memories as he prepares to leave the university are of the people he’s worked with - both those who mentored him and the ones he helped along the way. “They’re hardworking, they’re dedicated. They’re highly skilled. And, you know, as much as I’m looking forward to my retirement and my next chapter,” he said, “I’m going to miss everyone.”
He’ll be missed, too. “Arshad’s retirement really feels like the end of an era. He’s been part of so many projects over the years and has worked with just about everyone on campus—even President Pines has been talking about his retirement,” said Bill Olen, Executive Director Planning & Construction. “He’s leaving behind some big shoes to fill, and he’ll definitely be missed—by all of us in FM and by the many people he’s partnered with across the university.”
And his advice to new staff joining FM? “Take full advantage of the FM staff because we have such a diverse, highly-skilled, and dedicated group of folks. Seek out mentorship—most people are not only willing, but happy to help.”
Arshad plans to stay connected to his friends, to the university, and to the passions that first led him to his career. “I’m going back into my drawing and painting.” Travel, hiking, and fishing are also on the horizon, along with plenty of time with his wife.
As he reflects on his time with UMD, Arshad looks back with pride, “I’ve seen the university’s reputation and facilities grow tremendously,” Arshad said. “That satisfaction, the chance to play even a small part in making it happen, is the reason I’ve spent my entire career at the university.”