From the Interim Associate Vice President Bill Olen
The spring semester didn’t begin quite as expected, but Facilities Management was proud to play a role in helping campus reopen safely after Winter Storm Fern. As we move forward, FM is looking ahead to a busy and productive few months, including comprehensive customer service training for every staff member — reinforcing our commitment to service excellence. Even as we continue supporting campus with a leaner workforce than in previous years, we’re prioritizing our efforts thoughtfully to deliver reliable service where it matters most. We’re excited about the work underway across campus and invite you to learn more in this premiere issue of The Circuit.
Managing Winter's Frosty Challenges: Meet FM’s Winter Warriors
In a typical year, the College Park area experiences an average of five to six snow or ice events with an average seasonal snowfall of around 13 inches. Long before the first snowflakes fall, the Facilities Management (FM) landscape/snow removal team begins winter weather preparation and whatever winter brings, FM is prepared.
The CRC Team Keeps UMD Moving 24/7/365
When something goes wrong on campus — a power outage, a heating failure, a flooded space — one team answers first. Meet the Customer Response Center, the small but mighty group working 24/7/365 to coordinate FM’s response and keep campus safe, accessible, and moving.
Steam Outages on Campus: What to Know
When a steam outage occurs, it can affect heating, hot water, and other building systems across campus. This overview explains how the campus steam system works, what impacts may occur during an outage, and what to expect as service is restored.
Improving the Customer Experience: What This Means for You
A new Customer Service Training Program is helping FM staff strengthen communication, coordination, and follow-through — so working with FM feels clearer, smoother, and more predictable for campus partners. Learn what this means for you.
Behind the Build: How FM Is Helping Bring Zupnik Hall to Life
As Stanley R. Zupnik Hall moves steadily toward its 2026 opening, Facilities Management is already playing a key role in ensuring the building doesn’t just look impressive but functions efficiently, sustainably, and reliably from day one.
Before Kickoff: What Fans Don’t See on Game Day
The fans are in the stands, the teams are ready, and the atmosphere is electric as tipoff approaches. It’s the moment everyone sees — and the one the Intercollegiate Athletics Facilities (ICA) team has been preparing for behind the scenes.
Housekeeping Schedule Update
To help the university manage recent state budget reductions, FM has adjusted its housekeeping schedule for office and administrative spaces from weekly cleaning to a biweekly rotation (once every two weeks). This change allows us to reduce costs while continuing to prioritize the campus areas with the highest daily use, such as classrooms, restrooms, teaching labs, and public spaces.
Even with this adjustment, our commitment to clean, welcoming, and well-maintained buildings remains the same. If your area needs attention between scheduled cleanings or you have specific concerns, please reach out at fmcrc@umd.edu — we’re happy to explore options and ensure you have the support you need.