Anna Pittinger
My journey with UMBC began in March of 2020. I was onboarded virtually because UMBC was moving to remote operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. My work as an Employer Relations Coordinator shifted instantly from what I knew about in-person event planning, to what I did not know as a virtual event coordinator. I was at an accelerated learning pace, in a new job, wondering how long I could pretend I knew what I was doing. It took very little time for me to realize that UMBC is a place of talented professionals, nurturing leaders, and many opportunities to grow in both what I do know how to do well, and what I do not. Over the last four years, UMBC has become my work home. The people, the culture, and the ability to be incredibly inspired make UMBC a special place. I believe in the mission and values, and I believe in the great work I see accomplished around me every day. Serving on the Senate gives me a chance to be more involved with UMBC and have an impact on positive change. Thanks to UMBC, I am currently working on my Master’s in Business, with the potential to graduate this Spring.
A random fact about me is that I attended high school at the Baltimore School for the Arts and studied dance. The diversity, sense of inclusion, and freedom of expression at UMBC is similar to my high school experience, which is another reason that I feel so “at home” here.
I live in Annapolis with my husband, 12-year-old son, 13-year-old daughter, and our pitch-black goldendoodle (oxymoron) named Barker, who we affectionately call Boo Bear, Boozer, and Barchie Bear. I love to cook and entertain, attend my kid’s sporting events, and be outdoors, especially hiking and boating. I am a total foodie, and think it is amazing that there are infinite flavors, cuisines, and combinations to enjoy. I love a good prank, and one that has become an annual tradition the day before winter break involves my husband and I picking up our kiddos from the bus stop dressed as a couple of reindeer. It is with sheer delight that we chase them home and they pretend not to know us. In closing, I have to say that I will eternally be grateful that I found my place at UMBC.
