The Robert H. Smith School of Business Expands in Baltimore Peninsula
On April 7, 2026, the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland celebrated the grand opening of its new campus located in the vibrant Baltimore Peninsula. The event featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting alongside an open house, showcasing a modern academic environment tailored to support busy professionals pursuing an MBA.
The new campus is strategically positioned on the third floor of Rye Street Market, addressing the growing needs of the Flex MBA program, which allows students to engage in an enriching learning experience while balancing their professional commitments. Key figures at the ceremony included Prabhudev Konana, Dean of the Smith School, and Under Armour's founder, Kevin Plank, among others, reflecting the prestigious nature of the event.
This relocation from the University of Maryland BioPark highlights the institution's dedication to maintaining a strong presence in Baltimore, a hub for innovation and business growth. Throughout the years, the Smith School has been a driving force in offering a nationally ranked MBA program that equips working professionals with the skills to thrive in a competitive marketplace.
In his remarks, Dean Konana emphasized the importance of the new location, stating, "Opening our doors at Baltimore Peninsula marks an exciting chapter in our commitment to the city and provides vast opportunities for professionals and organizations that contribute to Maryland's economic landscape."
The Baltimore Peninsula development is not just a mere location; it embodies a vibrant community comprising major employers, pioneering startups, and innovative firms. The partnership fosters a dynamic environment conducive to academic and professional growth. Notable nearby businesses include architectural firms and tech companies that align well with the Smith School’s focus on practical business education.
Cheshire Carter, chief engagement strategist for the Baltimore Peninsula Partnership, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, underscoring the influx of new talent and energy into the community, which promotes collective growth and innovation. She remarked, "This partnership represents the spirit of Baltimore Peninsula as a center for innovation and shared progress."
Further enhancing its appeal, the campus is conveniently situated in a bustling business district, just a short walk from various restaurants, entertainment venues, and significant employers such as Under Armour and CFG Bank. This strategic positioning aims to create vital connections between students, faculty, and the industries that significantly shape the future of Baltimore.
Associate Dean Rosellina Ferraro spoke about how this new facility plays a crucial role in the Smith School's mission, stating, "Baltimore Peninsula provides our Flex MBA students a dynamic environment that reflects the ever-evolving landscape of today's business world. Our new location will enhance our curriculum delivery and strengthen relationships with local businesses."
As part of its ongoing commitment to blended education, the Smith School offers Flex MBA students various learning formats, including in-person, online, and hybrid classes. This expansion not only provides immediate access to a compelling business network but also represents a significant step in the school’s commitment to nurturing the region’s professional workforce.
The grand opening marks just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new phase for the Robert H. Smith School of Business. With its modern facilities, reinforced community ties, and a renewed focus on supporting working professionals, the Smith School is poised to make a lasting impact on Baltimore and beyond.
For more information regarding the range of specialty masters and MBA programs designed for working professionals, please visit
rhsmith.umd.edu/programs#mba-programs.
About the Robert H. Smith School of Business
The Robert H. Smith School of Business is renowned for its leadership in management education and research, providing numerous programs that cater to various levels of professional development, including executive education and customized corporate training opportunities.
About Baltimore Peninsula
Baltimore Peninsula is an ambitious waterfront development that unites housing, office spaces, retail outlets, and community events, fostering an enviable quality of life in the region. Supported by the Baltimore Peninsula Partnership, this district is committed to enhancing the community's economic vitality and livability.