Speakers Present Contrasting Views on Elimination of DEI Policies in Steamboat Institute Campus Liberty Tour Debate
Experts debated government bans on DEI programs at the Smith School during the Steamboat Institute’s Liberty Tour. Jason Riley argued for merit-based color blindness, while Rick Banks defended DEI’s nuanced value. Leaders emphasized open, reasoned, and empathetic discourse.
How is research used in industry? Come learn from those who have this experience and explore potential career paths.
Hosted by the Ed Snider Center for Enterprise and Markets, the event will feature a pizza dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by a panel discussion from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
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Smith School Hosts Regional Conference on Open Inquiry in Higher Education
The Smith School served as the venue for the Heterodox Academy Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference on Sept. 26–27, 2025, where academic leaders discussed advancing open inquiry by emphasizing evidence-based reasoning, distinguishing discomfort from threats and adapting to today’s rapidly evolving information landscape.
Smith Programs Challenge Students to Think Independently
The Smith experience emphasizes independent thinking, civil discourse and global engagement. Through immersive programs, debate series and initiatives like the Fact-Based Discourse Initiative, students collaborate across disciplines to tackle challenges, develop leadership skills and prepare to lead with curiosity and integrity.
Explore diverse perspectives. All viewpoints are welcome! The goal of Bridge is not to force agreement, but to help us all understand our disagreement. Dinner provided.
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SELF celebrates 10 years at UMD with a Return to the Residential Experience
The Snider Enterprise and Leadership Fellows (SELF) marked its 10th year by reviving its residential program at UMD’s Smith School. This summer, 68 students—including 15 in campus housing—reignited the “magic” of living, learning, and building entrepreneurial ventures together.
Maximize your Smith School student experience and learn about all of the center opportunities to get involved, grow your skills, and expand your knowledge. Center representation includes the Center for Global Business, Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship, Center for Social Value Creation, and the Ed Snider Center for Enterprise and Markets.
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Smith’s Snider Center Launches Social Media and Market Dynamics Lab with Support from Narravance
The Ed Snider Center and NCRI launched the Social Media and Market Dynamics Lab to study how social media impacts financial markets. Powered by Narravance technology, the lab offers cutting-edge research and hands-on learning in data analytics and market forecasting.