Yaakov (Jake) Weissmann ’06
Vice President for Government Relations and Community Affairs
Jake has served as UMBC’s Associate Vice President for Government Relations and Community Affairs since December 2023. In this role, he uses his knowledge of government and policy and his deep relationships in state and local government to advance UMBC’s goals.
Before taking on this role, Jake served for two years as the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer in Montgomery County, where he helped steer the county’s economic development strategy and was responsible for several county departments. Prior to that, Jake spent 14 years with the Maryland General Assembly, including two years working in the House of Delegates, and 12 years with the Office of the Senate President. During his time in the Senate, Jake served in many roles, including as Chief of Staff for Senate President Bill Ferguson and former Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
Jake graduated from UMBC with bachelor’s degrees in social work and psychology. He earned his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and his Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore. Jake is a member of the Maryland Bar.
In 2020, the Maryland Daily Record named Jake to its Very Important Professionals (VIP) Successful by 40 list. In 2023, Governor Wes Moore appointed him to the State Board of Elections. Jake currently lives in Crofton, Maryland, with his two sons.
Mary Ann Richmond ’93
Director, Community Affairs
Mary Ann represents UMBC in engagements with our neighboring communities in southwestern Baltimore County and Baltimore City, as well as with local governments in Baltimore County, Baltimore City, and other key jurisdictions around the state. She is actively involved with UMBC’s Opportunities for Community Alliances outreach and engagement efforts and with OCA Mocha, the UMBC-affiliated coffee shop and community hub in downtown Arbutus. She also partners with the Office of the Vice President for Research on federal relations efforts. Prior to joining the Office of Government Relations and Community Affairs, Mary Ann spent five years with the Office of Institutional Advancement working on government and community relations and internal and crisis communications, and supporting university events such as Commencement and Convocation.
Prior to returning to her alma mater as a staff member in 2018, Mary Ann spent 24 years working at the federal level, including on Capitol Hill as a policy advisor to a U.S. senator and in the Executive Branch as a budget analyst and congressional liaison. She graduated from UMBC with a B.A. in history and a certificate in secondary social studies education, and also earned an M.A. in legislative affairs from the George Washington University. Mary Ann is a life-long Arbutus resident and enjoys quilting and playing with her two rescue dogs.
Wendi Myers
Executive Administrative Assistant
Wendi joined the UMBC team as an Executive Administrative Assistant in the Office of the President in May 2022, supporting the Office of Equity and Inclusion. She gained extensive experience working with individuals at the community level and with diverse populations during her time with Howard County Public Schools and her many years with the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks.
Wendi graduated from Frostburg State University with a Bachelor’s degree in recreation management. As an essential part of our team, she strives to make a positive impact on UMBC students, faculty, and staff, as well as in our surrounding communities.