From the Nominator

Terp magazine connects the University of Maryland community, celebrating its people and their impact through compelling and ambitious storytelling, arresting photography, thoughtful illustrations, and sophisticated, clean design. The magazine inspires, informs and entertains, covering timely topics—such as the promise and perils of generative AI, political misinformation, and climate change—through a UMD lens. We also serve up fascinating profiles and fun takes on the Terp experience. These two issues showcase that balance. The Winter 2025 issue juxtaposes a riotous illustrated feature about the “Lost Haunts of Route 1”—the long-gone dive bars, burger joints and record stores that alumni collectively adored—to the completion of the road’s lengthy makeover. There is also a timely overview of our research aimed at halting the spread of avian flu. A feature in the Spring issue showcases stunning then-and-now portraits—taken in 2005 and 2025—of the inaugural recipients of a particular scholarship. In addition, a gripping cover story explains how students in a forensic accounting club helped solve a real murder—so current that our writer attended the sentencing. Anyone picking up the magazine, Terp or not, can find something engaging inside. The magazine is mailed three times a year to 108,000 alums, friends, and other stakeholders, and its content extends much further via a companion website, the university's daily news site, and UMD’s social media channels. A 2025 Alumni Association survey found (again) that Terp is the No. 1 way alums stay connected to UMD.

From the Judges

Terp magazine combines lively storytelling with dynamic design. Judges thought the “Lost Haunts of Route 1”—which highlighted dive bars, burger joints, record stores, and more that were beloved by alums—was a particular standout. Other content such as a cover story about accounting students helping to solve a murder was also effectively framed to draw readers in.