Vacation mode: activated. But before you log off for a well-earned summer break, take a moment to set your out-of-office message. This quick task helps keep communication flowing smoothly while you're away—and shows our commitment to great customer service even when we’re off the clock. Here’s how to make your message count:

On a typical day, Facilities Management’s Space Management team is juggling space change requests, analyzing space-use data, and collaborating with campus partners to find efficient, data-informed solutions for evolving space issues. Part puzzle, part problem-solving, university space management is about making sure the rooms and buildings on campus, like classrooms, offices, study spaces, and labs, are being used in the best way possible. 

Lighting plays a critical but often overlooked role in making the University of Maryland campus safe and welcoming after dark. From pedestrian pathways to parking lots, Facilities Management’s (FM) Electrical Services Exterior Lighting team is responsible for keeping more than 2,600 pole lights operating smoothly across campus.

Another successful Maryland Day took place on Saturday, April 26, as tens of thousands of people shrugged off an early threat of rain to enjoy all that the University of Maryland has to offer. Facilities Management shared information about its many responsibilities in a fun way, and with the chance for prizes at the end of the day.Maryland Day 2025 Photo Gallery

On Wednesday, April 23, Facilities Management Human Resources (FMHR) hosted the FM staff for a luncheon at the South Campus Dining Hall. FM staff members enjoyed the complete spread of meal options from salads to full entrees, along with great conversations.FM Human Resources Luncheon Photo Gallery

After five years of behind-the-scenes planning, testing, and teamwork, a new era of facilities service has officially begun. On April 7, Facilities Management and its partners in Residential Facilities, Dining Services, Recreation & Wellness, and STAMP launched SHIFT (also known internally as AssetWorks) through the new Facilities Service Central portal. This integrated system is already making it easier than ever to report and track facilities-related requests across campus.

On Wednesday, April 9, UMD's Arboretum held its annual Arbor Day planting ceremony. This year's tree was a Black Gum Wildfire cultivar, native to Maryland and featuring red leaf tips as they emerge, deep green leaves through the summer, and a brilliant red display in the autumn. The tree was planted at the northwest corner of the Clarence Mitchell Building. See the Photo Gallery here.