2014–2015 Karen L. Wensch Endowment Award for Outstanding Non-Exempt Staff

Dottie Caplan, Executive Administrative Assistant, College of Natural and Mathematical Sciencescaplan

Dottie Caplan began her career at UMBC in 1997 as a secretary in what was then known as the College of Arts and Sciences, and joined the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences in 2005. Her dedication to UMBC, its students, faculty, and staff is unparalleled, and her coworkers consider her an invaluable asset to the College and the UMBC community.

Caplan handles a large volume of work and consistently provides support to the Dean and CNMS staff that goes above and beyond her responsibilities, for the good of CNMS and the University. Her helpful, supportive manner is evident in her daily communications. Always offering a smile and an optimistic word, Caplan treats internal and external visitors with the same courtesy and kindness.

Her dedication to CNMS is only matched by her commitment to UMBC’s mission of service. Caplan is president of the Non-Exempt Staff Senate and is known for persistently advocating for her NEES constituents. She embraces shared governance by serving on a number of university committees, including the Strategic Planning Steering Committee. She is a tireless advocate for the Maryland Charity Campaign (MCC), serving on its cabinet and overseeing the annual Non-Exempt Staff/Professional Staff Senate bake sale fundraiser for MCC. In addition, Caplan serves as a mentor for new students and supports both Commencement and Welcome Week activities.

Over the years, Caplan has also served her local community and received awards for her service at the Violetville School, American Heart Association, Department of Recreation and Parks, Baltimore City Public Schools, and other organizations.