MPK&D congratulates founding partner Mary Pat Seurkamp, Ph.D., President Emerita, Notre Dame of Maryland University, for receiving a Distinguished Service Award from the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) at the 2025 Annual Presidents Institute. The award recognizes Mary Pat’s 13 years of service as senior advisor and director of the New Presidents Program. CIC paid tribute to her extensive leadership and forceful support of independent college and university leaders. Mary Pat recently retired from her role at CIC. She previously served as chair of the CIC board from 2003–2005.

Founded in 1956, the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils and higher education affiliates that supports college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society.