ANNAPOLIS – Michael Gelman wants to repay a debt his check book can’t cover.
Gelman, a certified public accountant, was appointed to the University of Maryland System Board of Regents Thursday by Gov. Parris N. Glendening.
“This is my way to give back or repay…Maryland for my education,” Gelman said in an interview Friday. “We all have a social responsibility that involves giving of ourselves. This is a great way to say thank you and make a positive contribution.”
Gelman, 51, replaces Frank Gunther Jr. of Baltimore, who resigned his post Oct. 10. Gelman joins 16 other regents who make policy and budget decisions for 13 state institutions.
An Annapolis native and 1967 graduate of the University of Maryland at College Park, Gelman is president of Gelman, Rosenberg and Freedman in Bethesda.
“…Gelman is an experienced and successful businessperson, and he will bring that important perspective to the Board of Regents,” Glendening said in a statement making the announcement. “He also has been very active in his local community, working with a variety of organizations on issues of great importance.”
In 1995, President Bill Clinton appointed Gelman as a United States Holocaust Museum council member. Gelman also sits on the boards of the United Jewish Appeal Federation of Greater Washington, Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington and the Foundation for Arts Education.
“I offer a business expertise that is grounded in fundraising, especially for non-profits,” Gelman said. “I have a broad perspective on business issues that will add to the board’s already experienced regents.”
Gelman’s appointment must be confirmed by the Maryland Senate. -30-