Catherine M. Bielawski Director, Undergraduate Student Services,
College of Engineering and Information Technology 2008-2009 University System of Maryland Board of Regents’ Award for Outstanding Service to Students
Catherine “Cathy” Bielawski has served as a model staff member, enthusiastically providing outstanding service to students in her roles as a coach, advisor, mentor and more – for the past 29 years. Now serving as director of undergraduate students for the College of Engineering and Information Technology, Bielawski’s unique interpersonal skills give her the ability to challenge and support students.
In her years on campus, Bielawski has served many roles. She started her career at UMBC as a student and was then hired as the gymnastics coach from 1977-91. She then moved to academic advisor in the Advisement Center. While in this role, she designed a document that eliminated the confusion surrounding general foundation requirements for graduation. This document is still referred to as, “The Bielawski Document” by her fellow advisors and remains in use today.
When Bielawski was hired as the academic advisor for the College of Engineering and Information Technology, she continued to successful serve students both individually and in groups. A key to her success as an advisor is that she educates students while helping them. Many students leave her office having gained new decision-making skills.
After being promoted to director of undergraduate student services, Bielawski was honored for her work by winning the College of Engineering and Information Technology’s Advisor of the Year Award. She also supervised two full-time academic advisors, taught the success seminar and contributed her insight and enthusiasm to many college and university programs, projects and committees. A strong advocate for students, Bielawski is a valued member of numerous university committees. Her career at UMBC has been one of skillful and compassionate service to students.
Bielawski earned a B.A. in American Studies from UMBC and a M.A. in Education Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Maryland, College Park.
