2026 Diane M. Lee Teaching Award
David Clurman
Contract Administrator, Procurement
David Clurman has served the UMBC community since 2006, transitioning from a 25-year career in Residential Life to Procurement and Strategic Sourcing in 2022. Driven by a lifelong passion for student development, David has instructed over 20 semesters of IHU, FYE, and UNIV courses since 2013. He is deeply committed to helping first-year students navigate the critical academic, social, and personal transitions of college life.
David’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the vital connection between learning, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging. He cultivates a classroom environment rooted in support and respect, where students feel empowered to be vulnerable. By dedicating time in every class for students to share personal “highs and lows,” he helps normalize the challenges of the college experience while building empathy and community. Ultimately, David’s approach fosters student agency and responsibility, ensuring every student has the foundation to be as successful as they aspire to be at UMBC and beyond.