For more than a century and a half, our institution has been a state leader in education—a place where opportunities are created and success is possible for everyone. What began with 11 students as the Maryland State Normal School in 1866 has evolved into one of the area’s largest, top-ranked public universities.

In the 2025-26 school year, we were fueled by momentum.

It has been another remarkable year at Towson University. From national recognitions to achievements in research, scholarship and the creative arts—the 2025–26 academic year was one defined by momentum.

President Mark Ginsberg

Rankings and recognitions

The Wall Street Journal and Washington Monthly named TU the No. 1 public university in Maryland. Washington Monthly also named TU one of only 25 “Best-in-Class Colleges” in the United States, a recognition of TU’s excellence in student success, social mobility and public service.

#1

Public University in Maryland

#1

for Social Mobility in Maryland

#26

in Public Universities Nationwide

#41

for Social Mobility Overall

#64

Best College in the U.S.

The recognitions didn’t stop there.

Inclusive excellence

At TU, every person, regardless of where they come from, can achieve success. This culture is why we’re recognized among this nation’s best universities for women, military students and learners of all ages.

Sustainability 

At TU, sustainability isn’t just a word: It’s a way of life. We received STARS Gold rating for sustainability achievements and were recognized among nation’s best for sustainability.

Engaging in the community

As an anchor institution for greater Baltimore and Maryland, community engagement and local partnerships are central to Towson University’s mission to serve the public good.

Together, we aim to create meaningful learning opportunities that prepare students to become the next generation of leaders

Kevin Rochlitz, Baltimore Ravens senior vice president & chief sales officer

Doc and Ravens fans
Doc holding a mini stuffed doc with a TU votes shirt

Strengthening democracy

TU is committed to civic engagement and service for the public good. In 2025, we established the Ben and Myrna Cardin Center for Civic Engagement and Civil Discourse, a hub dedicated to fostering open dialogue, respectful debate and active participation in our democratic systems. 

We are national leaders in civic engagement.

Financially empowering the community

TU is removing barriers and making college more accessible. Whether it be new transfer pathways or statewide partnerships, TU is making it easier to earn a four-year degree.

Fueling Maryland’s economy

TU continues to power Maryland’s economy, generating an impressive $2.5 billion in total economic output in fiscal year 2025.

$2.5

billion for Maryland

$101

million in state tax revenues

7,689

jobs supported statewide

Record-breaking philanthropy

In FY26, TU celebrated its most successful fundraising year in its history, securing $23.4 million in philanthropic support thanks to the extraordinary generosity of alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff, students, corporations, foundations and community partners.

This inspiring milestone reflects the growing belief in our university's mission and the limitless potential of our students. 

Faculty, staff, student and alumni impact

TU’s momentum is fueled by our talented faculty and staff who go above and beyond every day to support students, advance our mission and strengthen Maryland. Thanks to you, we’ve been named one of America’s best workplaces. 

Former Tigers are making a difference in every corner throughout Maryland and around the globe. As health care workers, teachers, public servants and more, our graduates are applying the knowledge and experiences gained at TU to address today’s most pressing challenges.

And they’re giving back to TU students while they do it.

200k+

alumni worldwide

120k+

alumni in Maryland

#1 in MD

producing educators, health professionals 

Student success

At TU, students are our most important priority. Their successes speak for themselves. Here are just a few of the Tigers who inspired us.

Leah Collidge

Honors council student of the year

Leah Collidge ’26 was named Student of the Year by the Northeast Regional Honors  Council. 

Ashley Hajimirsadegh

7 students named Fulbright semifinalists

Four TU students and alumni were selected as winners for the 2026–27 Fulbright U.S. Student Program. 

Kendle Weaver

Student awarded prestigious fellowship

Kendle Weaver ’26 was named a 2025–26 Joy of Giving Something Fellow.

Innovative and impactful research

TU’s commitment to producing innovative and ground-breaking academic research continues to reach new heights. TU registered more than $19 million in research expenditures in FY2025, which contributed to transformative growth in summer research experiences for undergraduate students, community partnerships, refereed publications, juried creative works and significant growth across TU’s doctoral programs.

TU introduced the College of Graduate Studies and is now classified as a Research Colleges and Universities institution in the 2025 Carnegie Classification—a recognition of the growing strength of our academic research.

We conduct research that matters.

Our focus on research and creative activities extends beyond the lab, classroom, and concert hall—it provides multiple opportunities to engage with and enhance the community around us and share knowledge with the world.

Melanie Perreault, provost and executive vice president of academic affairs

John Sivey working with a student in his lab
Students at North Point working on archaeology research

Excellence earned

TU student-athletes make an impact wherever they are—in competition or the classroom. Whether they’re among the nation’s best in community service hours, the CAA’s best in academics or leaving it all on the field on game day, our Tigers are ready to meet whatever challenge comes their way.

293

players on CAA Honor Roll

10,033

community service hours 

Cover of the 2026 annual report

2025-26 Annual Report

Read the full 2025-26 report, including a letter from the president, success stories and words from Myra Cardin.

Download the report (PDF)