Skip Navigation

UMGC Global Media Center
UMGC Partners with USO to Expand Commitment to U.S. Military Personnel and Their Families

Bob Ludwig
By Bob Ludwig
  • News |
  • Press Releases

Kaiserslautern, Germany (January 16, 2025)--The Europe division of University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) has announced a renewal of a partnership with the USO, opening the way for more shared events and special programs, a stronger UMGC presence at USO centers and joint social media messaging focused on educational opportunities available to servicemembers and their families.

Under the collaboration, UMGC Europe staff will work alongside USO employees at select USO Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) locations, enhancing the support services currently available to military communities. As a leader in military education, UMGC is proud to extend its outreach and strengthen its longstanding dedication to the well-being of those who serve.

“There is a strong synergy between UMGC Europe and USO EMEA,” said Patricia Coopersmith, vice president and director of UMGC Europe. “With our presence across more than 50 locations in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, we provide educational services and degree programs to U.S. military personnel, their families, Department of Defense civilians and others who support the mission.

“Given that the USO operates in many of the same regions as UMGC, this partnership is a natural extension of our shared commitment to serving military communities,” Coopersmith continued. “We are honored to collaborate with the USO and support its vital work in keeping servicemembers connected to their families, their communities and their country.”

This renewed partnership offers UMGC staff the additional opportunities to connect directly with servicemembers and their families at USO Centers across the region. By engaging with the USO community, UMGC Europe staff will not only gain a deeper understanding of the USO’s mission but also the opportunity to give back to those who serve our country.

"Our partnership with UMGC reflects our shared commitment to supporting military service members and their families," said Grant McCormick, regional vice president for USO Europe, the Middle East and Africa. "Together, we are ensuring they have access to high-quality education and career development opportunities throughout their service to the nation."

About University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) was founded in 1947 specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers. In 1949, UMGC responded to the U.S. Department of Defense’s call to send faculty to teach in post-World War II Europe and has continued that commitment ever since.

Today, UMGC is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland and continues its global tradition with online and hybrid courses, more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, and more than 135 degrees and certificates backed by the reputation of a state university and the University System of Maryland. For more information, visit umgc.edu.

About the USO

The USO is the leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America’s military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has been by the side of servicemembers throughout their military service. High value support is provided through our 250+ locations around the world, a robust care package delivery program, global entertainment, military spouse and youth programming, and much more, all made possible by donors, corporate partners, volunteers and staff. To learn more, visit USO.org or follow the USO on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.