The College of Southern Maryland hosted a Brick Recognition Ceremony May 3 at the
Prince Frederick Campus in tribute to eight individuals and their impact on families and friends.
Today is about recognizing our partners and our supporters by honoring and remembering those who believe in the mission of the College of Southern Maryland and share in the vision to transform lives, one at a time, said CSM Foundation Chair Christine Rush. It starts with a brick, or a scholarship, a room naming or an event sponsorship. That generosity and investment today, enriches and immeasurably impacts our communitys tomorrows.
Those recognized with either a memorial or honorary brick, which are placed in the brick walkway entrance to Building A on the Prince Frederick Campus, include: Charles R. Dick Bailey Sr., Joe and Aline Cafiero, Drs. Richard and Jean Fleming, John and Mary Anne Harms, and Bette A. Whyte.
Bailey was remembered as a dedicated and strong family man who served as a role model in the community and for his family. Born in Washington, D.C. in 1929, Bailey was married for 64 years to Kathleen Kay Scheibel and together they ran J.A. Scheibel Construction until his retirement. An avid sportsman, Bailey shared his hobbies with his sons Rick and John, and grandchildren.
Joe and Aline Cafiero were honored by their daughter CSM Associate Professor Joy Syring. Aline Cafiero attended Armstrong Junior College in Savannah, Georgia, with her daughter following in her footsteps and attending the same school when it became Armstrong State College. Syring credits her parents for instilling in her a passion for education and dream of being a professor.
Drs. Richard and Jean Fleming supported the program with an honorary brick to each other in tribute to their commitment to the college and to Calvert County. Collectively, they have worked in education for nearly 70 years in a wide variety of positions in six states. They moved to Calvert County when Richard Fleming became vice president and dean of the Prince Frederick Campus in 2009. Jean Fleming graduated from CSMs nursing program in 2013.
John Harms was remembered by his wife, Mary Anne Harms. Born in Hagerstown, John Harms was an engineer and founded the John E. Harms Jr. and Associates Engineering consulting firm in 1955. He served as president and CEO for many years. John Harms believed that the value of a man should be seen in what he gives and not in what he is able to receive, therefore both he and his wife are well known for their generosity. Through the Harms philanthropy, the Healing Garden at Calvert Memorial Hospital, Harms Gallery at the Calvert Marine Museum and the Marianne Harms Multidisciplinary Suite at the Sheldon E. Goldberg Center for Breast Care at Calvert Health System.
A brick was also placed in honor of Mary Anne Harms next to her late husband. An astute businesswoman, a friend raiser and a philanthropist, Mary Anne Harms generosity has touched many lives and served as a catalyst for improving Southern Maryland. Mary Anne Harms, with her husband John, created a scholarship fund that has made an impact on many Calvert County students pursuing their higher education goals. She is an advocate for education and what it can do for a persons quality of life.
Whyte was remembered by her daughter, CSM Lead Institutional Research Analyst Kathy Marshall. Born in Baltimore in 1933, Whyte had four children, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren and was happiest when working around people. A collector and antique enthusiast, Whyte enjoyed going to auctions and loved spending time at the beach, especially in Florida, said Marshall.
The CSM Brick Program is a lasting celebration of those who have a special connection to CSM and the Southern Maryland community. As a tribute to a family member, a friend or to represent a special occasion, a brick is inscribed and placed among other honorary bricks at locations available on all three campuses. Bricks are available for $200 with the funds providing financial support to the college and its mission.
To view photos from the Brick Recognition Ceremony, visit http://csmphoto.zenfolio.com/15prinbricks. For information on the program, visit www.csmd.edu/Foundation.