Governor Wes Moore officially proclaimed February 17, 2026 as Independent Higher Education Day in the State of Maryland, recognizing the long-standing partnership between the State and Maryland’s private, nonprofit colleges and universities. Independent Higher Education Day was also announced on the floors of the Maryland Senate and House of Delegates. 

“MICUA’s celebration to recognize the successful partnership between the State of Maryland and its independent colleges and universities is an appropriate occasion to commend these institutions and recognize the significant contributions they make to Maryland’s system of higher education,” Governor Wes Moore said. “Maryland’s independent colleges and universities provide broad public benefits by contributing to social mobility, economic prosperity, workforce development, scientific discoveries, global competitiveness, civic participation, and service to community.” 

More than 100 students and campus leaders from Maryland’s independent colleges and universities gathered in Annapolis on February 17 to meet with lawmakers, advocate for higher education funding, and celebrate Independent Higher Education Day. Their presence underscored the vital role these institutions play in expanding educational opportunities for Maryland students and strengthening the State’s workforce and communities. During meetings with legislators, students shared firsthand perspectives on the importance of protecting the Sellinger Formula, which supports access and affordability across Maryland’s higher education system. 

In addition to legislative meetings, students and campus leaders participated in a luncheon at the Calvert House in Annapolis, which provided an opportunity for students to connect with one another and engage in continued dialogue with higher education leaders. 

For more than 240 years, Maryland’s independent colleges and universities have partnered with the State to expand access to higher education, support local economies, and serve Maryland students. Today, the State is home to a diverse network of private, nonprofit institutions committed to public missions in education, research, and workforce preparation.  

Established in 1973, the Sellinger Program supports this partnership through a formula-based approach to funding independent colleges and is named after Fr. Joseph A. Sellinger, former president of Loyola College (now Loyola University Maryland) and a respected higher education leader. The Sellinger Program provides operating support to Maryland’s nonprofit independent colleges through a formula tied to the State’s public four-year institutions. Approximately 85–90 percent of Sellinger funding is used directly for student financial aid, helping lower the cost of attendance for Maryland residents and expand access for first-generation and underserved students. Continued investment in the program strengthens Maryland’s workforce pipeline and helps retain talent within the State. 

MICUA campus presidents emphasized the importance of the Governor’s proclamation, noting, “Independent Higher Education Day highlights how essential the Sellinger Formula is to student opportunity. Preserving this support ensures Maryland students can pursue higher education regardless of financial circumstances.” 

Independent Higher Education Day reinforced the contributions of Maryland’s independent colleges and universities while emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between the State and its higher education partners. As students and campus leaders continue to advocate for sustained support of the Sellinger Program, this long-standing partnership remains a cornerstone of Maryland’s higher education landscape.