Meet Program Manager Jessica Sadler
Jessica Sadler received a 2026 Dean's Outstanding Employee Award from the University of Maryland’s College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences. The winners of this award are recognized for their dedication to the well-being and operation of the college and its administrative units. The winner exemplifies strong capability, commitment and service to the college and the university community.
Sadler shared her experiences and insights as program manager for the Applied Mathematics & Statistics, and Scientific Computation (AMSC) graduate program.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
How and when did you end up at the University of Maryland?
I started my career as an English teacher. I taught English literature and English as a second language in Baltimore, Thailand and Japan. After completing a two-year contract at Tokyo International University, I returned to the U.S. in 2016 with the goal of transitioning into a more administrative and community-building role in academia. I wanted to support students behind the scenes in their academic journeys instead of in front of the classroom. I am grateful that my role in the AMSC Program allowed me to make this change.
What is your favorite thing about working in your department?
There are so many things I love about working in the Department of Mathematics, but my favorite is working with our graduate students. They are creative, kind and altruistic. Whether it’s recruiting or onboarding new students, current students are always eager to volunteer their time and energy to help. I also enjoy working with the AMSC team: Director Radu Balan, Graduate Assistant Claudia Cerna and undergraduate employee Brent Li. Together, we’ve created a welcoming and productive environment in our Kirwan Hall 3rd-floor suite.
Did you always think you’d work in academia?
Initially, I envisioned myself as a teacher, but not necessarily in academia. My perspective shifted when I served as a graduate assistant in the student affairs division at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. That experience revealed my passion for supporting students outside the classroom and contributing to their academic success and well-being.
What are your key responsibilities in your role?
My key responsibilities include managing the AMSC Program’s advising, admissions and recruitment processes, as well as assisting students with reaching degree milestones. I also plan and host events such as the Math Department’s annual Halloween Party. Additionally, I lead our department’s career and professional development programming, including a semesterly newsletter, The Calculated Career, to help students prepare for life after graduation.
What does your day-to-day look like in your job?
My day-to-day is a mix of multitasking and handling various responsibilities, often punctuated by student walk-ins. Academic offices operate in seasonal cycles. During the summer, I focus on onboarding new students and planning for the annual Math Department Orientation in August. The fall semester involves assisting with course registration, facilitating AMSC Graduate Committee meetings and preparing for admissions season. In the spring, the admissions committee reviews applications and we recruit new students. Throughout the year, I ensure that current students receive clear communication and support, and that they have a sense of community, so they can focus on their academics without being overwhelmed by administrative processes.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy the freedom to be creative. I have the opportunity to brainstorm and implement new ways to support students and foster community. For example, during COVID-19, I organized a Math Department mascot competition, inviting our community to nominate their pets as department mascots. This initiative brought a sense of fun and connection during a challenging time. Additionally, I launched a sticky note project in the women’s bathrooms in Kirwan Hall, where women can leave anonymous notes encouraging one another.
What did being selected for the CMNS Dean’s Staff award mean to you?
Being selected for the CMNS Dean’s Staff Award is an honor that means so much to me. It’s a recognition of the effort and dedication I’ve poured into my work. This award inspires me to continue striving for excellence and finding innovative ways to enhance the academic experience for everyone in the AMSC Program and the Department of Mathematics. I’m deeply grateful to be part of a community that values and celebrates the contributions of its members.
What motivates you to do your job well?
I am motivated by the belief that graduate students in my program and department deserve the best possible experience during their academic careers. By reducing administrative hurdles and offering consistent support, I want to ensure students’ time at UMD is as smooth and rewarding as possible so they can focus primarily on their academics and personal growth without being overwhelmed by the complexities of navigating a large university with its own zip code!
What is your favorite UMD memory?
Some of my favorite memories at UMD are the lunches with the AMSC team at nearby restaurants each semester. These gatherings allow us to connect and get to know one another outside of work. On sunny days, we sit outside on the patio at places like Looney’s. Seeing everyone’s smiling faces is always a highlight for me.
What do you like to do outside work?
I enjoy exploring my creative side through writing short stories, novels and screenplays, as well as drawing. Staying active is also important to me. I weightlift and jog at nearby parks nearly every day, especially when it’s warm. When I go out, I love attending live jazz performances and visiting art museums.
