The University of Maryland’s Smith School opened a new Baltimore Peninsula campus for its Flex MBA program, offering modern space for working professionals and strengthening connections with Baltimore’s business community through partnerships, networking and proximity to major employers.

West Baltimore has been at the epicenter of upheaval in a city rocked by recent protests and riots following the death of Freddie Gray in police custody. In the aftermath, lawmakers and local officials are calling for ways to effect change in the low-income, marginalized community. An innovative experiential learning practicum piloted by the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, School of Social Work, and Carey School of Law offers some potential solutions.