Towson University taps Ulman to help map future growth strategies

Ulman previously served two terms as Howard County Executive, where he earned a reputation for an innovative leadership style

By Towson University on September 27, 2016

Towson University President Kim Schatzel poses with Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz (right) and Ken Ulman (left)
Towson University President Kim Schatzel poses with Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz (right) and Ken Ulman (left)

President Kim Schatzel today announced a partnership with Ken Ulman, former Howard County Executive and president of Margrave Strategies, to develop a comprehensive strategy focused on supporting the mission of Towson University by strengthening the connectivity between communities, core institutions and emerging businesses.

Ulman will serve as a chief strategist for Towson University during a four-month contract, working to further elevate the university’s profile in the surrounding community and maximize strategic assets in the Greater Baltimore region. Among the first activities to take place will be an “anchor scan” to analyze market trends, development patterns and space needs as they align with university goals and priorities.

"As the largest university in Greater Baltimore, Towson University is committed to taking on an even greater leadership role as an anchor institution and further strengthening its connections and positive impact with community and business partners," said Towson University President Kim Schatzel.

The partnership will help support the implementation of several presidential priorities including Towson University’s recent focus on BTU: Partnerships at Work for Greater Baltimore, the institution’s effort to give greater presence and purpose to the existing partnerships underway between TU and dozens of businesses and non-profit organizations within Greater Baltimore. 

“As Baltimore County’s third-largest employer, TU plays an important role in the educational, economic and community vitality of Greater Baltimore,” said Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. “Our neighborhoods, businesses and non-profits will benefit from this strategic effort."

“It is an honor to work alongside President Schatzel and help Towson University serve as a greater catalyst for job creation and placemaking in Towson, a community poised to play a leading role in the 21st century knowledge economy,” said Ulman.

There will be several opportunities for the public to engage in this conversation through upcoming events including the 2016 Towson University’s Economic Outlook Forum that will focus on Towson's placemaking strategy. The event will take place on Nov. 16 at TU’s West Village Commons ballrooms.

Ulman previously served two terms as Howard County Executive, where he earned a reputation for an innovative leadership style that brought Maryland’s sixth largest jurisdiction to new heights in education, healthcare, environmental sustainability and economic development. He has been named a Tech Titan by “Washingtonian Magazine;” a Top 25 Doer, Dreamer and Driver by “Government Technology Magazine” and a Regional Visionary by the Greater Baltimore Committee.

Video from Tuesday's event: https://youtu.be/r96_mIrmzvI