Director David Hoffman in Baltimore Sun Education Supplement

David Hoffman, J.D., Ph.D. '13, director of the Center for Democracy and Civic Life was recently interviewed for the February 2023 Baltimore Sun Education supplement story, "The importance of experiential learning." Hoffman discussed Alternative Spring Break, during which students spendsix days exploring the systemic and human dimensions of complex social issues in Baltimore and identifying pathways to long-term community engagement. 

Hoffman explains that "'students get to know Baltimore on a human and systemic level to get a deep understanding on the issues in the area....This year's topics are disability justice and the impacts of structural inequities on people with disabilities in Baltimore City; educational justice for youth impacted by intimate partner violence and the barriers to academic success resulting from IPV; and the racial and ethnic disparities in access to health care in Baltimore. Students will meet with various non-profits, residents, activists and city government officials to not only better understand the issues but also work collaboratively on solutions. 'We are fortunate that UMBC has the Shriver Center, so we already have various strong partnerships in place.'"

Hoffman's interview begins on page 1 of the Education supplement.