Mark R. Ginsberg began his tenure as Towson University’s 15th president last October. He has enjoyed a more than 40 year career as a psychologist, educator, and senior administrator in academia. Prior to his appointment at TU, he spent nearly 14 years at George Mason University, where he served as the dean of the College of Education and Human Development and later as provost and executive vice president.

In this C-Suite Insights, we talk to Dr. Ginsberg about his experience in higher education and his thoughts on Maryland’s assets.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your institution.
As the leader of Greater Baltimore’s largest public university, I oversee operations and programming that impact nearly 20,000 students and more than 3,000 employees. With its storied history of more than 150 years, TU is recognized as one of the top public universities in the nation and as a leader in academic excellence, research, discovery, inclusion, and community engagement.

Where in Maryland do you live?
We live in both Towson (Baltimore County) and Takoma Park (Montgomery County).

Where in Maryland is your office located?
Towson

What is your favorite activity to do/place to visit in Maryland with your family/friends?
For us, “home is where the heart is.” Spending time at our family home provides a retreat from the daily grind, as does time with our family – especially our children, their families, and our close friends. We also enjoy frequent visits to athletic venues, state parks and, of course, the Chesapeake Bay and Eastern Shore.

My wife Elaine and I recently visited Assateague Island and had a wonderful time enjoying the sun

What has your organization’s experience been like with Maryland’s workforce?
TU is an important driver of economic and workforce development for both Baltimore and for the entire state of Maryland. Nearly 90 percent of our alumni stay and work in the state, many as teachers and health care workers—two critical professions for which TU is the largest provider in Maryland—and other high-need fields in our communities. But beyond this impact, workforce development begins on our campus and in our classrooms. Our world-class faculty and staff prepare students for the industries of tomorrow. From cybersecurity to entrepreneurship and environmental sciences, we are constantly exploring new interdisciplinary programs that will help our state meet the workforce needs of our future.

What business goals would you like to see the state of Maryland accomplish over the next decade?
As one of the East Coast’s most vibrant cultural and economic epicenters, Maryland has an opportunity to be an exemplar for the Mid Atlantic region and the nation. I’ve been fortunate to reside my entire adult life in our state. Maryland is a great place to work, live, and receive a world-class education. I’d envision that Maryland will continue to pave the way as an American leader in economic development, outstanding schools, affordable higher education, and sustainable practices. And above all, remain a state that values and embraces diversity, equity and inclusion in all facets of our society.

What’s the best piece of life advice you’ve ever received?
My lifelong mentor Steve Danish of Penn State University once told me “never try to be someone you're not.” Eventually, if you’re not authentic, people will find out and be disappointed you aren’t what they originally thought. This has stuck with me and led me to embody a sense of “what you see is what you get.” During my transition to TU, I’ve tried to remain my genuine self with everyone I meet so I can build trust with our university community. Steve also helped me to understand that one needs always to consider “unintended consequences” and to take each challenge “one step, or bite, at a time” rather than “trying to swallow the whole thing at once!”

What do you enjoy the most about your job/the higher education industry?
Working directly with students. Throughout my career as an administrator in higher education, I have always remained a member of the faculty as well. I love to be in the classroom. One of the true joys of our profession is watching students follow their passions and make new discoveries in their scholarship and about themselves. I get inspired when they get inspired. Being able to help facilitate that is truly a pleasure. It has always driven me and always will.

What's your favorite way to eat or drink Old Bay?
Of course, Maryland crabs. Although I enjoy “picking,” I prefer the wonderful soft-shell crabs that are fresh and carefully cooked, as well as crab cakes – both with a generous sprinkling of Old Bay. But, I am one of those guys that puts Old Bay on just about everything, and enjoys the unique Maryland roots of its flavor.

Maryland’s 12,400 square-miles are full of diverse professionals who span a variety of industries, sectors, and backgrounds. With our C-Suite Insights series, we’re shining the spotlight on some of our state’s leading executives in Q&A format and giving them a chance to share their thoughts on business and life in Maryland.