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What happens when sustainability becomes a shared language across cultures? At the University of Maryland, the Global Terps for a Greener Future (GTGF) initiative is showing how environmental action can also build connection, belonging and community across differences.

By Jessica Weiss ’05N’deye Diop ’26 arrived at the University of Maryland firmly on a pre-med track. But the daughter of Senegalese immigrants, who grew up hearing Wolof and French at home, also carried a longtime fascination with language.

Daniel Lee knows what it feels like to arrive somewhere unfamiliar and find your footing. As an international graduate student from South Korea pursuing a Master’s degree in higher education, student affairs and international education policy, he came to the University of Maryland carrying what he describes as "a little bit of imposter syndrome."Lee’s experience navigating U.S. higher education, and learning how to see his international perspective as an asset helped shape global learning at UMD and who it is designed for.

For over three months, the Global Terps for a Greener Future (GTGF) interns, Abigail (Abbey) Vanasse ‘27, a junior information science major and sustainability minor, and sophomore Omarichachukwu (Oma) Obiorah ‘28, a mechanical engineering major, have excelled in cultivating sustainability engagement and education across campus.

When Siddharth Sharma, M.S. ‘23, arrived in College Park from Delhi, India, his first impression came in a small but meaningful package—a welcome packet from the University of Maryland’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). Inside were maps, a metro card, and tips for navigating life in the D.C. area.

When Viktoriia Savchuk Kennet Ph.D. ‘25 crossed the stage at commencement this May, she carried not only a doctoral degree, but a mission—to return home and use her research on communication and resilience to help rebuild her country.“I love Ukraine. It is a beautiful country,” Viktoriia says. “I cherish every opportunity to be here with my family, friends, and my people, and to contribute in any way I can to positive change and good memories despite everything.”