A Legacy of Love

Deborah Ahalt ’68, MA ’75, and Daniel Ahalt ’73 have shared both an enduring marriage and love of their shared alma mater, the University of Maryland.

Both also share similar backgrounds — modest upbringings in rural Frederick County. Due to economic reasons, Deborah’s father left school in 10th grade, and though her mother did attend business school, they were not wealthy. “Their children going to college was so important to them—they were proud of us,” says Deborah, the oldest of three siblings. “This fueled my love for being a University of Maryland student.” She earned a teaching degree and lifelong friendships living in the Wicomico Hall dorm: “Seven of us regularly do Zoom get-togethers.” 

Dan’s family also played a large part in his path to UMD. “My father, a farmer, passed away when I was two, leaving my mother, who didn’t graduate high school, to raise me as an only child,” he says. 

His mother’s perseverance and vigilance to avoid debt motivated him to pursue business school and a career, including 28 years in public accounting. “Her being able to attend my commencement meant so much,” he adds.

The Ahalts’ fondness for the university has inspired them to give back–more than $200,000. Dan says he’s further motivated by alumni pride for a business school that has gained so much in reputation. In fall 2024, the couple was inducted in the Smith School Dean’s Circle, a recognition for their giving to the business school.

Dan also gives back to Smith to honor cherished relationships. He says Smith Emeritus Professor Gary Bulmash stands out. “When I was a student, he taught as a graduate assistant. I eventually got to know him very well, through his professional development work for my [Bethesda-based] accounting firm.” 

The Ahalt’s gifts support business majors, as well as UMD athletes. Each supports different sports for different reasons.

Dan supports baseball and lacrosse. As a UMD Marching Band member, he served as drum major, including for the Terps’ 10-9 home football victory over North Carolina–a favorite memory, he says. Deborah’s athletics scholarship gift supports the eight-time NCAA champion Maryland field hockey team. She played the sport as a high school student and actively supported the field hockey program at Arundel High School in Gambrills, Md., where she taught art, with a specialty in photography. 

After the accounting firm, Dan went on to work as a CFO for a regional scrap metal business and retired professionally as a senior accountant for the DOJ Office of Justice Programs. 

He also served as president of the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants—“the highlight of my career,” he says. He’d advise any Smith student or recent grad to “stay focused on your goals. Always give over 100% effort.”

Deborah adds, “Make the most of the University of Maryland and its great resources—both as a student and as you’re venturing into your profession.”