Christine Routzahn, Career Center, Receives 2025 NACE Mackes Leadership Award

Christine Routzahn, director of the Career Center, was awarded the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Mackes Leadership Award at the June 2025 NACE national conference. The award honors the leadership and contributions of Marilyn Mackes who led the association as executive director for 23 years. It recognizes members who have shown exemplary leadership while promoting an environment of ethical standards, diversity, equity, inclusivity, and innovation.

“If the only criterion for this award was a commitment to supportive and developmental leadership of her staff, Christine would be a deserving recipient every year. However, what makes her such an ideal recipient is that she demonstrates the same level of care and commitment to advancing the career goals and passions of our students at UMBC,” said Dr. James DeVita, assistant vice president for campus partnerships and high-impact initiatives.  “This prestigious award reflects an extensive career at UMBC leading not only the traditional services of a university Career Center, but also Christine's vision and dedication to the success of all students.

Routzahn has served UMBC for 25 years, working with the UMBC community, employers, and state and local leaders while partnering with students as they explore, grow, and achieve their career goals. Under her guidance, the Career Center has become a recognized model for student career readiness, employer engagement, and innovation in high-impact experiences. 

With a strong commitment to applied learning and equitable success, Routzahn has led the development of some of Maryland’s most impactful internship models, including the Walter Sondheim Nonprofit Leadership Program, MDOT Fellows Internship Program, Shattuck Family Internship Program for Entrepreneurship, the Sondheim Public Service Law Fellows Program, and the Maryland Technology Internship Program. She is regularly called on by the media for insights on employment trends, and the Career Center’s programs and impact on students and alumni. 

Routzahn holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Georgetown University and a master of education in human development and psychology from Harvard University.

Pictured: Christine Routzahn with Shawn VanDerziel (right), President and CEO at the National Association of Colleges and Employers, and Tim Harding, Chair of the Board of Directors at the National Association of Colleges and Employers  and Assistant Vice President for Career Development and Engagement at University of Tampa