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I particularly miss you today old friend. Where's your goofy grin when I need it? Hope all's well on the other side.

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Happy Mark, dancing his feet off in that desert camp in the UAE. His signature move was the Russian hop - workin' those quads! 

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His quiet smile was a constant in my life

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His quiet smile was a constant in my life

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What I remember most about Mark Wellman, was his insanely messy office.

Walking to his office is like walking into the office of THE archetype of a mad professor. His desk piled with papers, shelves with accumulated binders, books, VHS tapes, an office that despite several attempted clean-ups by well-meaning TAs, always reverted back to a equilibrium state of perpetual chaos.

To Mark, what mattered most in the world was a student's experience. Organizing experiences, not his desk, was what he spent most of his time doing.

Above all, he cared for his students. Like Claudia said, never an uncaring day.

It would be the greatest understatement to say that Dr. Wellman influenced my life. It would be an even greater understatement to say that his departure has left a hole in my heart, albeit a messy-office-shaped one.

I was 17 when I stepped into his classroom in 2009. He passed shortly after I turned 30. In between, I may have only TA'ed for him for two semesters in 2011-2012, but I used to joke that once Wellman's TA, always his TA, because whether I was in Seattle, Hong Kong, or (virtually) India, Singapore, there was Wellman and his 70 BSE students. He used to introduce me as the person who visited some meaningless country count and North Korea (always with much protest from me). And I used to remind him that it was he who took me on my first real abroad experience to Dubai.

He watched me grow up yet was too humble, too silly, to ever call himself a mentor, always a friend. Even during covid, when I almost saw no one, Wellman and I had our annual catch-up, at Rudy's then a bar on Route 1, laughing about his students and getting deep about our families. We always managed to meet, no matter what was going on, the entirety of my adulthood.

Having lived abroad for so long, I may have been a sporadic presence in his life and unknown existence to those closest to him, but he was a constant in mine.

Every year for the past decade of my life, Mark was there, with his quiet smile and eyes lit with pride.

I miss Mark dearly. It's taken me a long time to gather up my emotions and write on this board. He deserves all the honor in the world. Time doesn't change how much we miss him, he will be remembered forever.

-Shirley

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Could not believe that was my last last forever Goodbye to Dr Wellman

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Could not believe that was my last last forever Goodbye to Dr Wellman

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So sorry to know this sad news yesterday when I guided my guests down to Mekong Delta and mentioned Dr Wellman to my guests by typing his name : Mark Wellman on Google. It was very sad news.

It was my honor to have met Dr Wellman 3 times in HCMC ( 2016-2018-2020) and have guided his students of University of Maryland for business study trips and    culture tours and history tours.

He was so kind , so friendly to us . Every time we met together with the same smile face. He gave me big chances to guide such massive group tours ( last tour Jan 2020 : 56 together ). Normally I just guide for family groups. I am crying when tying this. From now on, I will never meet him again

Rest In Peace Dr Wellman. We will miss you forever. Auntie Super Star was also very sad when I informed her yesterday.
Life is so short !

Jason of Jason Super Star Services ( Jason SSS ) from Vietnam

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I was honored to learn from and adventure with Dr. Wellman as he was my director for the Southeast Asia study abroad in January 2020. Welcoming, adventurous, and worldly, this man was a true role model. Coming from outside of the BSE program and the business school, he allowed me to join the trip! Traveling around four countries in just three weeks, it was quickly apparent he had connections all over. From Alvin to Jason SS, and then also his flight to meet us in Singapore coming directly from another trip, his presence was exciting from the beginning. It was remarkable. Dr. Wellman joined us on each adventure, and ensured we understood the importance of each event. Ironically, this very well travelled man still preferred to eat McDonald’s every chance he got rather than authentic local food. My favorite memory of Dr. Wellman was his joyous smile on the last night of the trip celebrating a successful few weeks with us and we shared a few laughs whether it be at a rooftop restaurant or on one of the many bus rides! Even after the trip, he was so incredibly kind and passionate about his travels and making those connections with us and businesses. Even though he was so busy, he still made time for everyone and every event. He packed our days with activities and was always on the go. He was extremely dependable and a great mentor during this trip. My prayers go out to his family and close friends. Thank you Dr. Wellman for the impact you had on me, the opportunities, and the spirit I admire. -Marisa

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Boats and boating--Equipment and supplies

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I attended the Southeast Asia study abroad trip led by Dr. Wellman in January 2020. This trip was the experience of a lifetime. I am incredibly grateful for the effort and thought Dr. Wellman put into making a wonderful trip. His passion was infectious and during these few short weeks, he truly changed the way I looked at the world. Dr. Wellman made each person on the trip feel welcome, and I appreciate and am honored by the time he took to get to know me personally. Thank you Dr. Wellman

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Dr. Wellman was an amazing professor that taught me everywhere except the classroom. I went on the last SEA trip in 2020 before covid hit and it was one of the best trips of my life. My favorite memory of Dr. Wellman was when he took us bungee jumping and I was still too scared to commit, until I saw him bungee jump, tell us it was fun, and then walk over to the bar and watch everyone else go with a drink in his hand. He loved his students and his job and gave me so many experiences that I am grateful for.
- Breena

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Mark was an insightful, supportive, and much loved member of The Case Centre's North American board of trustees. We especially feel his loss this week as our board convenes for the first time since his passing.  Our thoughts and best wishes go to Mark's family.
Richard McCracken
Director
The Case Centre

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I remember Prof Wellman as one who had a truly global perspective, and he surely brought that into his classroom. I took his classes in 2010 and 2011 and always remembered him for setting the foundation of my understanding of Global business. May he RIP

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Professor Wellman was honestly one of the reasons that I became involved with the Global Consulting Fellows. I found that his explanation of what the program meant to do was incredibly fascinating. I interviewed with Professor Wellman for the Global Fellows Program and I immediately knew that he truly enjoyed this program.

Throughout my brief time that I knew Professor Wellman I always knew he cared about where I was going. He helped me out with networking and he was doing everything he could to bring us to Dubai. He was a truly selfless person and I only wish I could have spent more time learning from him.

I wish his family condolences and I am thankful I was able to learn from him

Stephen Pavlak, Class of 2022

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The idea that Mark is no longer with us, just does not seem possible.  He was always there, for everyone, in so many roles, for so many years.

Mark and I go back to 1985 when I took his MGMT 360 class at BGSU. He then steered me into the MOD program for a master's at BG and I subsequently became the interim associate director of the MBA program working with Mark on a daily basis. He was doing innovative stuff in the classroom then, and continued to do it for another 36 years.

Over the past 36 years, we continued to work together on a variety of things, speaking regularly, and seeing each other frequently even though we ended up on opposite sides of the country. He was an inspiration with the international programs, with his teaching, with the care he showed for his students.  This much has been made clear by the memories shared on this page.
There was an additional side, however, that fewer people saw, but I believe that provides an even stronger indicator of Mark's true character. For the past 36 years, I saw him take better care of his parents than anyone I have ever seen. From running a family business back in Ohio that required him to drive (or take God-awful flights) between DC and Lima, Ohio on a regular basis, to moving them to Florida and spending a great deal of time with his sister and parents there, he was one of the most present sons imaginable. When his 90+ year old father passed away not too long ago, he was devastated and took it very hard. We always discussed how his mother was doing. The investment his parents made in him was paid back 10x by Mark.

There is no question that Mark was one of a kind. Hopefully the lessons he provided for many will be his true legacy.

- Bill Bommer

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Dr. Wellman was the absolute best. His classes were always entertaining and well-thought out. It was apparent he cared about his students and genuinely wanted us to learn and succeed.

But he was so much more than an amazing professor. He was a joy to be around and I'm so happy and grateful I had the opportunity to get to know him as a person outside of the classroom. My biggest regret is not going on a study abroad program with him because I have not talked to one person who didn't have an amazing time.

Even though I graduated a few years ago, we still kept in touch and he always checked in to see how life was going. That's just the type of person he was. I am so happy I did the BSE program because I can't imagine my college experience without Marky Mark and his infectious positivity.

He will truly be missed by everyone who's had the pleasure of knowing him. RIP. You truly are one of a kind. <3

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I first met Dr. Wellman through my scholars program- Business, Society, and the Economy (BSE) as I’m sure many other students in this space did. From day 1 Dr. Wellman showed genuine interest in his students both from an academic and personal standpoint. I had the privilege to go on a trip with him to Hawaii and anyone who went on a trip with him would say it’s a once in a lifetime, unforgettable experience. He helped me grow as both a student and a man and I will miss him dearly. Thank you for all you did for me and the University of Maryland community.
- Connor Lawrence class of 2021

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Dr. Wellman was a wonderful colleague to me during my time in financial aid. He was both professional and personable, and most importantly, he got it. He got how to help students by them leading to their own journey. He got how we have to push some buttons and make some noise to get things done. While I am sad to hear of his passing, I am so grateful for the meetings and lunches I was able to have with him. May God's arms be wrapped around his family, friends, colleagues, and students. - Nicole Roop

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Dr. Wellman was a wonderful colleague to me during my time in financial aid. He was both professional and personable, and most importantly, he got it. He got how to help students by them leading to their own journey. He got how we have to push some buttons and make some noise to get things done. While I am sad to hear of his passing, I am so grateful for the meetings and lunches I was able to have with him. May God's arms be wrapped around his family, friends, colleagues, and students. - Nicole Roop

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One of my favorite professors during my time at the University of Maryland. Always helpful and kind. He will be missed. Rest in peace.

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While I wasn't part of the Smith school, I had the privilege of participating in some of Mark's classes and study abroad trips. These were some of the most enlightening experiences in my life to date. Mark was an extremely knowledgeable professor and a great friend. He didn't just stop at teaching us during these trips, he joined in on all the experiences with us and they were only made better with his presence. I'm glad that I had the chance to have him as a teacher and a friend.

Thank you, Mark!
- Eric Kusterer

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I am honored to have known Dr. Wellman and for the privilege of being a guest speaker at his business school, for many years. This was prior to his annual class study tour to Dubai.
I will miss him.
Barry

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Dr. Wellman invited me to attend his trip to Silicon Valley in the Summer of 2014 as I was entering my freshman year of college. He opened my eyes to new possibilities and inspired me in a way that no other teacher ever has. I can confidently say that I wouldn't currently be living in Silicon Valley and pursuing my current career path if it wasn't for his teaching, mentorship, and friendship. There are few people that make as profound of an impact on other's lives as Dr. Wellman.  I'll be forever fortunate to have known him and hope that one day I can inspire others in the way he inspired me.

-Matthew Swetz

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To the man who didn't just teach, but showed

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To the man who didn't just teach, but showed

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Wellman had an incredible impact on my life, and many others I know. He didn't just teach us, he showed us. He was always welcoming, always friendly, and truly changed our lives. I wrote a short tribute to him in which I tried to capture the magic he brought each and every day: https://vikb.com/remembering-mark-wellman/
- Vik Bhandari

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Mark Wellman was one of the biggest influences on my life.

What seemed like a simple two week trip to Silicon Valley and a fun way to spend part of my summer completely upended my life plans in the best of ways. I am literally a different person for having met Mark Wellman, and my gratitude to him is immense.

I will fondly remember his humor, insight, and utter dedication to his students. It was simply a pleasure to know and be around him. In this way, he was a people person in the truest sense: he liked people, and it showed and was reciprocated.

Wellman was more than just an academic teacher. He taught life experience in a way no one else did. He opened doors for his students in a unique way by taking us there.

On campus, it felt completely natural to stop by his office for an hour or more with no agenda. He was always welcoming, and always interesting.

If there was a professor of mischief, it was Mark Wellman. You never knew what was laying behind that twinkle he always had in his eye.

I will miss your laugh and incredible stories, dear friend.
In memory of Mark Wellman (1962-2021)

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Mark Wellman was one of the biggest influences on my life. What seemed like a simple two week trip to Silicon Valley and a fun way to spend part of my summer completely upended my life plans in the best of ways.

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So blessed to know him as a boss and friend...

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So blessed to know him as a boss and friend...

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Mark hired me as the Director of MBA and MS Admissions at the Smith School in 1998.  He was the Assistant Dean of the MPO at the time.  He created a small family of his direct reports:  me, Mike, Kenny and Diego. In addition to being a wonderful boss, he was a beautiful friend.   We were so lucky to work for and with him.
I left the Smith School in 2006, but every now and again we would connect- usually by social media.  During these times I would marvel how full his life was.  He would confirm that it was also rewarding.  He loved teaching.  He loved his students.  And he loved Winona Lake where he spent his summers.
A couple of weeks before the Christmas holiday, he posted a birthday greeting on Kenny's page.  He tagged me saying, Sabrina, we need to get the old gang back together for a reunion.  I responded "definitely in the new year"- not realizing it would be my last note to him.   I so hate that we were not able to create a new memory but grateful for the 20+ years of friendship.
My deepest sympathy to his family- especially his mom and sister.  He made such an impact and lived his dash well.
Sabrina White

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Dr. Wellman played an integral role in helping me become the person I am today. His leadership, passion for teaching, and amazing study abroad trips changed my life immensely. I'm so glad our paths crossed during my time at Smith. As a first-gen college student, I never could have imagined the opportunity to see the world. Dr. Wellman made that experience attainable for me and I am forever grateful to him for opening that door.

Thank you Dr. Wellman for EVERYTHING!

Teonna Lonon - '11

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Dr. Wellman was a truly amazing educator and a dear friend to so many. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. I knew Dr. Wellman when I was supporting Blackboard and Canvas many years ago. Instead of sending an email, he often visited my office in person for requests. I knew he has been teaching advanced practicum courses in both BMGT and CPSP for global studies. Once I browsed his students' assignment submissions (related to his support request), I couldn't stop reading the students' articles sharing their experience of their trips around the world, full of excitement and wonder inspired by Dr. Wellman. He shared about his Innovation Immersion Experience class at an annual ITL Conference for Innovation, Teaching & Learning held on campus. And I am so thankful for his kind support to me when I needed help a few years ago. He would call me to share information that I might find helpful. Mark, thank you for being such a wonderful and caring teacher and friend, you will be missed dearly.

- Alice Zhang

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Global Business Strategy Experiential Learning at the IMF boardroom, February 21, 2020

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Global Consulting Fellows USDA Teams, February 7, 2020

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Global Consulting Fellows Project Launch at the USDA offices, February 7, 2020

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Global Consulting Fellows Project Launch at the Marriott World Headquarters, January 31, 2020

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Thank you for your love of other cultures and people and that intersectionality with business. The Dubai trip was absolutely the most profound experience that I’ve had. It has shaped my travel. I wish I could have let you know when alive how much you meant to me. These experiences because of your passion and connections that you built diligently over time allowed for students like me to flourish in our careers. Thank you thank you thank you. Rest in perfect peace.

~ Takor Njang

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Coming into the BSE scholars program, like most colleges student I had no idea what to expect or if I made the right choice. I quickly was reassured early on driven by Dr. Wellman's passion for teaching innovation, excitement for learning, and care for his students. I would essentially brag to my other friends on campus about going to see Cirque de Soleil, Hershey Park, and more. I was fortunate enough to go on the Innovation Immersion Experience with Dr. Wellman the summer into Sophomore year to learn about numerous Fortune 500 companies on the west coast - to say I'll always remember that trip is an understatement. Dr. Wellman and I even lived in the same building my senior year, where I would always see him diving into his Tesla and investigating its capabilities. He was easily one of my favorite professors in college, and I will always be thankful for the impact he left on me. You will be missed dearly, and thank you for caring about your students beyond the classroom.

- Christian Castro

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CIBER Teaching Award Recipient - 2016 for excellence in Study Abroad education

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CIBER Teaching Award Recipient - 2016 for excellence in Study Abroad education

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Dr. Wellman was an amazing professor that cared deeply about his students. I've had the priviledge of taking his courses and traveling with him on several of his trips. These experiences were life changing and remain as some of my favorite memories from UMD. Thank you Dr. Wellman for everything. You will be missed!
- Former Student

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I was an econ and political science student that first met Professor Wellman on his famous west coast technology trip. Tapping the alumni community (including many of his former students), he organized intimate visits to the corporate headquarters of many of the biggest companies in SF/Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Vegas (Tesla was trading at ~$30/share at the time!).

On my last day of undergrad, Professor Wellman gave me my 1st opportunity to guest lecture. It was to his College Park Scholars class on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Perhaps this was because, when we were in LV at the consumer electronics show (CES), I got to take Professor Wellman and a friend out on the town to see my cousin perform (who had a headline show on the strip)!

Mark Wellman was one of those incredible teachers that made a lasting impact even with limited time.

RIP, to the great Professor :)

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I remember Professor Wellman as one of the most interesting and kind professors I had at Smith. He’s class was always full of interesting stories and examples. 11 years ago I studied abroad in Dubai with him and learned so much about the business culture of the UAE. He encouraged me to pursue a PhD at Smith and I am grateful for his encouragement. I will miss seeing his friendly face in the hallways of Van Munching when I come back to visit.

- John-Patrick Paraskevas

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Dr. Wellman's study abroad trip to Southeast Asia was one of the most impactful and memorable events of my college experience. Dr. Wellman's ability to create meaningful experiential learning opportunities touched so many students' lives and gave them an important chance to step out of their comfort zones for once in a lifetime opportunities. His passion and excitement for these experiences was infectious and has lead to lessons and memories I will hold onto my whole life.

Hannah

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Mark & I met 30+ years ago when we started working at UMD and have been friends ever since. His office was next to mine for many years and he always had 2-3 students inside talking intently, plus a line outside waiting to see him. He had a wonderful quality of being upbeat, kind, insightful, and selfless--never flashy or "look at me." He embodied a type of caring leadership we need in crisis-times yet that is in short supply. Rest in peace, friend; your too-brief life was well-lived & well-loved.
~Cindy

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I was very fond of Mark the years I served in the dean's office -- Mark had a unique likability and a very distinct persona.  An ever present smile with a twinkle in his eye.  A person of many interests, especially exotic travel.  He made the pivot from MBA administration once he realized what his true vocation was.  He was most passionate about teaching and developing students.  He had a special way of relating to students, disarming them and treating them as if they were equals.

He had a gift, and was a gift to his students -- such a sad loss.

Judy Olian

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Mark was a great hire for the Smith School and I had the pleasure of hiring him when he applied for the job of heading up the MBA Program. I was the school's associate dean at the time. We became good friends at the school.  He had many friends at the school and became a great teacher and was at one time the head of the Smith Schools College Park Scholars Program.  Mark was very creative and took the classes on a number of international trips during his tenure in that position.  He served with distinction in a number of other critical programs at the school.  Although I am retired, I did teach a class last Spring.  We would often meet in the hall and would spend time joking and recalling some of our past experiences at Smith.  The last time was when I was clearing out my office last summer.  I will miss him as I am sure many of his colleagues will also.

Burt Leete

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I first met Mark in 1982, when we lived on the same floor at Bowling Green State University. We enjoyed many fun times during those years including trips to Florida, Ohio State, Portage Quarry, Toledo Riverside Park, and Winona Lake.

While it had been many years since I had seen Mark, I'm sure that these memories were always with him as they'll continue to remain with me.

Rest in Peace Mark.

Tom Higginbotham

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While organizing my closet, I found my old College Park Business Society Economy Scholars T shirt from over a decade ago. Coincidentally, I was flipping through my phone when I read the news of Professor Wellman's passing, and then all the memories came flooding back. He was the lead faculty member for this two year undergraduate program I was fortunate enough to be a part of. I liked it so much I even joined the Ambassadors program to market how great it was. While I lost contact with him after I graduated, I still have fond memories of him. And I'm happy to read the stories about him from students long after my class had graduated, showing that he was still living his life to the fullest and inspiring others to achieve. He led by example, making his personal accomplishments in the academia field and then helping countless students to reach their own successes.

I could only find pictures from Dubai but he had taken us on multiple trips including Cirque Du Soleil, Hershey Park, and Harley Davidson plant. And each field trip was more than just for fun as they were lesson plans for the business world.  His adventurous spirit and creativity for the lesson plans just made me more curious and interested to learn. And I know that others felt that too.

Melinda J. Class of 2011

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As someone who also did Study Abroads, Mark was always willing to share his wisdom, experience, and advice to help my own courses to be successful. As shown by the other testimonials and by my own experience, he was adored by his students. He was always around to share a smile and a  chat. I am so shocked at his passing. Mark you will be severely missed!
Jim McKinney

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Mark was a humble and brilliant gentle soul…haven’t seen or communicated much with Mark since 1986 @ BGSU.  He was always an easy going and smiling genuine and reflecting gentleman….my condolences to the entire community that will always remember, miss and love him.  God Bless his soul and RIP Mark- you led a great life!

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Mark was a humble and brilliant gentle soul…haven’t seen or communicated much with Mark since 1986 @ BGSU.  He was always an easy going and smiling genuine and reflecting gentleman….my condolences to the entire community that will always remember, miss and love him.  God Bless his soul and RIP Mark- you led a great life!

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Mike Duffy

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Mark and I were colleagues in the business college at Bowling Green State University more than 30 years ago.  I succeeded Mark as Director of Graduate Studies in Business when he left for the Smith School in 1990 and we stayed in touch over the years.  In 1998 Mark recommended me for a position at Purdue's Krannert School of Management and I spent more than 14 wonderful years there.

He was a generous person who was always willing to take a call or answer an email and we would often catch up at conferences each year.

Though we had not been in touch in more recent years, we shared many common colleagues and friends and I followed Mark on LinkedIn.  The outpouring of comments celebrating Mark's impact on so many lives is a testament to his legacy.  Sleep well, old friend!

Chuck Johnson

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Dr. Wellman made a profound impact on me and countless others. He was my favorite teacher during my time at UMD and I consider myself extremely lucky to have been a BSE scholar.

Dr. Wellman's dedication to his students was incredible. He would always go out of his way to ensure the concepts we learned in our classes had practical application in the real world. Going on the Silicon Valley trip with Dr. Wellman was one of the best experiences of my time in college.

However, most of all, Dr. Wellman helped foster life-long connections for me during my time in BSE. I'm years out of college now, but met some of my best friends in Cambridge that I know will be friends for years to come. He created a truly great program.

The world has lost a great teacher and an even better man. Mark Wellman will be missed immensely.

- Anton Leontyev

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Professor Wellman walked me through experiences I never thought I would encounter so soon in my life. He helped me prepare on a much greater scale for my future. Not only that but he was a great man, who was always energetic, kind, and wise. He showed us how adventurous he was at such an old age and it was truly inspiring. It is safe to say he left having touched so many lives and could look back with great pride. I’m very sorry for his family, his impact won’t be forgotten.

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Dr. Wellman was an amazing teacher and friend. I met him freshman year as part of the BSE program and we immediately clicked. He challenged me intellectually, helped me think about my future, and had a huge hand in shaping my college experience and my career path thereafter. I think I took 6 classes with him and went on every trip that he made available. It was a great way to get enough credits for my CPA in 4 years and to have a genuinely good time while travelling the world and learning a ton.  I would hang out with him after class and he came to my Halloween party Senior year. After college, we stayed in touch through Facebook. We recently spoke and he invited me to Winona Lake. I always thought that one year I would take him up on that offer.

Seth Davidson
Class of 2011

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I recently reconnected with Professor Wellman. His call past midnight (for me in India) in 1996 to tell me I had been awarded a fellowship to attend the MBA program is as vivid today as it was 25 year ago. His  enthusiasm on the call, and his genuine concern and care for all the students at the Smith School, genuinely stood out during my time there. Mark, you were one of the best. You transformed many a life, not just mine. I feel extremely privileged to have reconnected with you recently, albeit virtually.

May the Lord give your family and the entire UMCP fraternity the strength to bear this loss. You were, and will remain, a cherished member of UMCP.

Forever grateful.

A past student

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Mark at Nike Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon during his 2018 West Coast Innovation Immersion course with 20+ UG students.

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"Life is not lost by dying; life is lost minute by minute, day by dragging day, in all the thousand small uncaring ways."     Stephen Vincent Benet

Mark Wellman never had an uncaring day in his life. He enjoyed learning, enjoyed teaching, enjoyed being adventurous and he somehow managed to experience each of these things every day.  As a professor, Mark wanted students to want to learn and he challenged them not to memorize his lessons, but to reflect on why they were learning.  He inspired thousands of young people to open doors for themselves by showing them how to be curious, determined, compassionate and good. I always marveled at the genuine and lasting connections Mark made in College Park and around the world and I always considered myself lucky to call him my friend. His short life was very meaningful. Claudia Donnelly

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Kind, thoughtful, and passionate educator and friend

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Kind, thoughtful, and passionate educator and friend

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I'm so saddened to hear of Mark's passing. I worked at Pixar from 2002 through 2018, and I had the pleasure of hosting Mark's class many times over the years in their west coast visits. We spoke of leadership, entrepreneurship, culture, product, and careers. He was incredibly engaging, and it was clear that he cared so very deeply about his students and their learning experience. Mark was a very special educator, colleague, and friend, and I feel fortunate to have known and connected with him. He will be deeply missed.

- Marc Greenberg '93

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Compassionate and Inspirational Teacher 

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Compassionate and Inspirational Teacher 

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Just two months ago, Mark used LinkedIn to reconnect with me 25 years after MBA graduation. He invited me to come back for a class reunion this coming April, which I gladly accepted. We lamented how fast time had flown by. It’s so sad to have suddenly lost such a compassionate teacher. Memories linger of the good old days with Mark in the mid 90’s.

Mark called me and did a phone interview for the MBA application in 1995. It was morning Asia Time, and late evening in College Park. Apparently he was working late to screen int’l applicants. During the interview, I asked if he was a student or teacher, he said “I am the director of the MBA program.”

For students with financial difficulty, Mark always reached out to help reduce burden and worry. His compassion produced teaching and administrative assistantships for students. Without such jobs, I would have had to go out and work at some restaurants washing dishes to make ends meet.

I landed an intern position in portfolio management at IFC of the World Bank in DC during the summer of 1996. Mark was so happy for and proud of me, and sent a school photographer to shoot me at work, and published the photo in the school year book. His care and love for students went deep and far.

The kindness and inspiration left by Mark have great impact on my life. Throughout two decades of working on Wall Street and in more than a dozen countries, I always chose to be nice and helpful whenever possible. Nowadays, I choose to teach an investment related class to the MBA students at University of California, Irvine as a community service, thanks to Mark’s positive influence.

Mark’s spirits of compassion and inspiration live on. RIP, Mark.

Steven Gong

MBA Class 97

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I was visiting Florida like Dr. Wellman was when I learned that he had passed away. Even now, it is hard for me to understand the fact that he is gone, but his impact on me will last forever.

I would like to share the nomination that I wrote for Dr. Wellman at the 2020 College Park Scholars Faculty & Staff Appreciation Awards, where he won the Face of Their Field award, as a tribute to the impact that he had on me:

“The first experience I had with Dr. Wellman was the summer before my freshman year, when I went on one of his famous and much-anticipated study trips to the West Coast. I was a wide-eyed, newly-minted freshman who had a vague idea that I wanted to be a businesswoman and that many people had done great things through business and technology.

“Discussing innovation and entrepreneurship with executives and entrepreneurs at some of the most inspiring and successful companies in the world revealed to me my own talents for innovation and entrepreneurship and planted the seeds for my own long-term goal in life: to become my own entrepreneur and create products and services that would change the world for the better.

“The West Coast trip with Dr. Wellman, which came only one year after I realized that I wanted to pursue business in life, could not have come at a better time for me: I started college with an understanding of my long-term goals in entrepreneurship, a realization of my strengths as an entrepreneur, and a deeply-held appreciation for the power of technology to change the world.

“One month later, I was with Dr. Wellman when he took the entire BSE freshman class to Hershey Park to learn about corporate social responsibility and enjoy the rides and chocolate one last time before it closed for the season. This time, I learned about the good that I could achieve through business and the problems that I could solve if I aimed to create a positive social impact through my work.

“These experiences instilled in me my life's goal of being an entrepreneur who innovates at the intersection of business and technology to solve societal problems in finance. It is a goal that I have challenged myself to reach through the rest of my time in college and my career.

“They say that college helps you discover who you are and what you want to be. If you knew Dr. Wellman, you would say that he helped you discover who you were and what you wanted to be. Dr. Wellman, thank you for helping me discover who I am and what I want to be.”

MeiJade Hsu
BSE Class of 2020
UMD Class of 2022

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Claudia, Mark, and I at a BSE Award Ceremony this past semester. 

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It’s always nice to know someone that has such an impact on you that you share the stories he told you with others because they were so funny, or brag that you feel like you can connect with anyone in the world because he knows everyone, or teach some of the things he taught you because they were interesting to learn.

I had the pleasure of taking Mark’s 289I class my first semester in BSE and TA under him for 289J, 289I, 289B, and a couple other sections of various classes whenever he needed the help for almost two years, just ending before this past semester. It was an incredible job because he was such an interesting boss, and just a little after starting he was a friend to me before anything else. He never talked like he was the professor and I was the assistant, it was like all the classes were partnerships and he valued my input and respected my feedback. It was the first job where I saw that my choices and words affected how something was done, and he used my ideas to change his classes because that’s who he was.

He’s been a huge help in building my confidence and overall growth and I honestly can’t really believe he’s gone.

I’ll still tell his stories and teach others what he taught me when I can because he is the most influential mentor I’ve ever had. And seriously his stories are crazy, the guy had a hell of a life. Waterpark antics, Tesla problems, stories with students or funny occurrences in the Smith School were always part of the conversation. He was for sure a creator and innovator in all aspects of his life, and I’m just happy I got to get to know him a little bit.

Noah Roeder ‘23

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Dr. Wellman and I on a Lava hike at Hawaii’s Volcano National Park. The hike was part of the 2018 Hawaii immersion experience. 

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It is difficult for me to put into words the impact that Dr. Wellman has had on my life, as well as the lives of those around him. Dr. Wellman was a great friend and mentor – someone who always saw the best in people and pushed them to grow.

I met Dr. Wellman my freshman year of college – at an MMA gym of all places (although appropriate for his adrenaline junkie side). I mentioned that I was a UMD student interested in business. Without knowing anything about me he carefully listened to my interests and offered to help me achieve my goals. That was the first time I witnessed Dr. Wellman’s dedication as not only an educator but also a friend. It was followed by countless lessons, advice, and crazy adventures. I became a TA for all of his classes, including seven of his international and domestic travel programs.

Dr. Wellman was passionate about helping others, and it was nearly a daily occurrence to have former students stop by the office to catch up with him. Despite having an intensive workload, he always made time to chat and listen to their life updates. It was clear from the smiles and laughter that both Mark and his former students shared a special bond. They valued his opinion, appreciated his advice, and cherished his friendship.

Dr. Wellman was known for putting together legendary experiential learning opportunities and a master at combining fun with real-life experience. He coordinated trips across multiple continents, scavenger hunts through DC, visits to the circus, outings to Hershey park, hikes across both lava fields and glaciers, and much more. In all, students were able to connect with professionals, learn about the culture, and better understand business strategy in a way that would leave a lasting impression. This also led to one of my most treasured lessons from Dr. Wellman – oftentimes the best experiences in life require you to step out of your comfort zone and go off the traditional path.

Mark was a great friend and someone that has shaped my life beyond measure. Not only did I get the chance to learn from him, but I also got to see how someone so successful could be such a caring family member. I saw firsthand the love he had for his parents as he took care of them; his sister as he was always excited to give her a call or visit her in FL; and other family members as he would consistently reach out and check in on them. Whenever I see a Tesla driving down the road, hear Bruce Springsteen playing, or crack open a Miller Lite – it will be impossible not to think of all of the memories and smiles. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. Thank you, Mark.

Former TA

Lifelong student and friend

-Ken Johnson, Class of 2020

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Dr. Wellman was an inspiration to all who knew him well. Not only was he one of the chillest professors, but he also had a cool car. He even inspired me to get my own Tesla. (LOL, I don't have one yet, but I want one in the future.)

In addition, I can't thank him enough for the experience he created in BMGT289B. Tho ngl, that final project was a lot. The class overall allowed me to do a lot of self-reflection and I would not be where I am without Profesor Wellman. He will truly be missed.

- Justyn Alexander '21

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I was fortunate to meet Mark when he joined the UMD community back in 1990.  Mark was the most caring, motivated, helpful, concerned, and professional person I have ever met.  Mark
lived to help others define and achieve their goals.  We were planning to meet for lunch next week.  I am in disbelief…
The world is a better place because of Mark Wellman.  I already miss you my friend.
-Dan Spar

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Professor Wellman was a pleasure to work for. There aren’t many people with his level of empathy, humor and energy. Dr. Wellman planned the MBA Global Practicum with so much love ; and his interest in global issues and people were very endearing qualities that made him unique. Maryland Smith Will miss you.

Amara Alam
MBA ‘20
Former TA

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Thank you for sharing your insightful experiences with the broader population of the countless classes you taught. You genuinely cared & brought compassionate conversations alive in the classroom. You’ll be missed

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Mark and I had so many great hallway conversations and we served on numerous committees together over the years while I was at Smith. We both had a passion for global business and shared so many experiences with each other. Mark was a kind soul, always had a smile on his face and was the kind of person people liked to be around. This is an enormous loss for all that new him and we can only be comforted by the fond memories we will all hold and cherish. We lost a great one. RIP Mark.

Gary Cohen

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I knew Mark through my coaching of the Washington Wrestling Club at American University. Mark came to many practices over many years. He always had a smile on his face and a great attitude. As an athlete/wrestler he was always ready to compete. He never gave up. He was very dangerous to wrestle in certain positions. Sometimes you thought you had him taken down or on his back and he got away again! You always had to be very strategic with Mark. He wasn’t the strongest, nor the fastest but he was very clever. In the club he never discussed his profession, he just worked out with the rest of us and enjoyed being part of the team. I did not know he was a professor. I liked him from the 1st day I met him. I thought that was because we were the same size, weight and age (I guess). He always pushed me hard and didn’t mind me pushing him hard as well (or as a: Wellman). That changed into a friendship with not just me but everyone on the team. For sure, no one ever had a bad word about Mark and Mark never said a bad word about anyone else. He was always positive. It’s not hard to find someone like him in the wrestling room, but he set the bar high for being a GREAT teammate.

It is with great sadness that Mark has passed. I always anticipated that we would continue our friendship outside the wrestling room … “off the mat”. I hear the inner voice in me that says: “feel lucky that you knew Mark, that we were friends”. But for now, I just feel mad. Questioning: why Mark? - what happened? - why so soon?

The team and I miss you!

Your friend,

Ron Reider & the Washington Wrestling Club

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It is difficult to enumerate all the ways Mark contributed to the Smith School over the many years he was at College Park. I remember when he came on as MBA director, later pursued his PHD and then became a truly committed faculty member. He dedicated his all to every job he had and always put the students first. The entire Smith community will miss him dearly.

-- Mike Ball

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The myriad of remembrances of Mark shows what an indelible mark he made on students, people and the university. He was a gift to all who had a chance to work with or befriend him. This outpouring of respect and appreciation shows a person who lived a life in full. Condolences to his extended family and his University of Maryland colleagues and current students. Godspeed, Mark ... you will always be remembered for how much you shared.

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The myriad of remembrances of Mark shows what an indelible mark he made on students, people and the university. He was a gift to all who had a chance to work with or befriend him. This outpouring of respect and appreciation shows a person who lived a life in full. Condolences to his extended family and his University of Maryland colleagues and current students. Godspeed, Mark ... you will always be remembered for how much you shared.

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Bob Carignan - MBA 94

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Never in my life had I encountered a teaching style quite like Dr. Wellman’s before my freshman year of college. And, quite frankly I have not encountered it since. Much like many other students here,  Dr. Wellman’s teaching changed my life. I didn’t know it at the time, but in being challenged by Dr. Wellman’s courses, something awoke in me that has never ceased: a hunger for the unknown.

When I got to college, I was naturally naive…. There was a whole world I had yet to know about. I didn’t like meeting strangers. I was nervous to travel. I cared more about what people thought than how I spent each day. Dr. Wellman facilitated my unlearning of these habits, pushing us to learn about others and corrode our comfort zone. In fact, comfort zone wasn’t an option in Dr. Wellman’s classes!

I’m thankful everyday for the lessons I was able to learn from him and the life experiences I shared with him. I remember two weeks before the New York City international toy fair, Dr. Wellman was like - “whoever wants to go, let’s go.” 4 or so of us dropped our weekend plans to join him. I never even knew that event existed before Dr. Wellman.

I hiked a glacier with Dr. Wellman. I attended events that made me extremely anxious because of Dr. Wellman. And I’ll never stop continuing and building on the experiences I’ve gained because of Dr. Wellman.

Thank you for showing us that there is so much in life worth doing that we don’t even know about yet. I hope to live a life half as legendary and as boundary-pushing as you, Dr. Wellman.

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Dr. Wellman as the advisor for the October 2018 Smith in the City consulting track.

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Dr. Wellman, you taught me about the importance of lifelong learning. Every class you led was bound to be a valuable opportunity, applicable to the real-world, and most of all something I looked forward to. I am so thankful for having been able to meet and learn from you. Sending my deepest condolences to your family and friends. Rest in Peace
Alex Leipold

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UMD Consulting Track at The Hackett Group (1)

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A Brief Reflection on the Master of Creativity & Experiential Learning

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A Brief Reflection on the Master of Creativity & Experiential Learning

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Dr. Mark Wellman is the most creative educator I’ve ever known, and I was always amazed by how invested he was in the success of his students. I was a student in his BSE Scholars program during my first two years at UMD, participated in his Global Consulting Fellows program during my junior year, and traveled with Dr. Wellman to the UAE, Hong Kong, and the West Coast through his study tour programs. Most memorably, I had the pleasure of being one of his teaching assistants during my junior year and senior year. Knowing Dr. Wellman for over five years has transformed my mindset, as I’ve become a much more innovative, creative, and strategic thinker. Dr. Wellman was passionate about a lot of things and brought that enthusiasm to the classroom. His teaching style was truly unique because it emphasized experiential learning, provided numerous career exploration opportunities through networking, exposed students to a variety of perspectives on issues, and prompted students to reflect on what they were learning. Above all, Dr. Wellman was a kind, down-to-earth man, and he valued the connections he had with all his students, including those who were struggling in his courses. I was blessed to have shared a strong bond with Dr. Wellman both professionally and personally. I am devastated that he is no longer with us. My deepest condolences go to Dr. Wellman’s family and everyone else whose lives were uplifted by him.

-Dhivyan Karunakaran
Smith School Class of 2020

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Dr. Wellman was my favorite professor that never taught me a class. He took over the BSE program the year after my cohort completed it, but because I studied abroad in the spring of my sophomore year, I was enrolled in his externship class, which didn't meet in person. He invited the students to travel to Disneyworld for a behind the scenes tour at the end of the semester, and even though I didn't know him, or any of the other students, I jumped at the chance. Dr. Wellman planned a fun and educational excursion that I will never forget, taking every opportunity to bond with us. He also provided us with the opportunity to meet and learn from Ben Bernanke while he was chair of the Fed in the fall semester of 2008, during the financial crisis. He said he just called up the Fed and asked if he could bring his students - another unforgettable experience. As a young alum, I always saw Dr. Wellman at the Smith events I attended, and he always took the time to say hello and see how I was doing. And when I came to speak in other classes or volunteer at smaller events, he would always stop in the hallway of Van Munching to say hello. His investment in his students, particularly in providing educational and formative experiences, will live on.
Ilana Jolson
December 2008 Graduate

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Dr. Wellman was by far the most impactful professor I have ever had. I had the opportunity to take multiple of his classes and participate in one of his study abroad programs. He brought a fresh perspective to Smith and was passionate in everything he did.

This photo was taken shortly after we went down the tallest waterfall allowed for rafting in the world. He loved adventure and blended together education and travel like no other.
He will be missed.

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Mark is one of the GOATs. Deeply saddened to see this news but touched to see all the people he has impacted. Last I spoke with him I told him beers on me next time I see you. Great person that created a positive energy that permeated all throughout Smith no matter where you went. RIP Sir.

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Dr. Wellman was an incredible professor, mentor, and friend. He made a tremendous impact on students whether it was through worldwide travel or teaching invaluable lessons in the classroom. I met Dr. Wellman at my BSE scholars orientation before starting college, and little did I know then the impact that he would have on me. I took part in his annual trip to the UAE, and it was a trip I will always remember because of his thoughtful planning and adventurous mind. Dr. Wellman opened the door to incredible, once in a lifetime learning opportunities. He lived life to the fullest and will always be an inspiration to all. Thank you Dr. Wellman for everything. You will be greatly missed. -Stef K

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Thank you for all you have done for our UMD and Smith community - you truly have left an enormous impact on all of us. I am fortunate to have gone on the 2014/2015 Southeast Asia trip. That trip sparked a love and fierce passion for traveling and learning about other cultures. Some of my fondest memories were made that winter and I hold them dear to my heart. You were a one-of-a-kind professor, one that everyone always looked forward to special surprise appearances at tailgate and AKPsi socials. Rest in peace, you will be missed dearly.

Jessica Ma
Class of 2016

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Great memories with Professor Wellman in the BSE Scholars program. He was a great professor who cared very much for his students. I will remember fondly a trip we took to Disney World with the BSE program!  Condolences to the family.
Brittany Barretta
UMD Class of 2013

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Dr. Wellman, I will miss you. We met through the last study abroad trip before the pandemic, on the Southeast Asia winter-term study abroad. I had a life-changing experience, and you were the solicitor of that. I can’t thank you enough for showing me new experiences and teaching me lessons I won’t ever forget, but also for being a down-to-earth, funny guy that knows how to have fun with his students and show that he cares about them. I’ll miss seeing you around Domain, and our casual conversations when we see each other on campus. And while we never got the chance to workout together at Domain, we had numerous cherished memories I won’t forget. You were a great professor, but an even better man, and I will miss you Mark.

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What a shock and a loss for so many. The extraordinary University Honors course Mark had recently created was yet another testament to his joy in innovation and student success. I am devastated that it will not come to fruition for him and for his students. There is evidence everywhere that the campus--the world--was changed by you, Mark, and I know that you will continue to inspire us in spirit on the future journeys your ingenuity helped map. Thank you!

Christine Jones
University Honors

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Dr. Wellman - You were one of the foremost highlights of my undergraduate experience at the University of Maryland. Between participation as a student in the Business, Society, and Economy Scholars Program to serving as your Teaching Assistant for the majority of my time in Smith, the friendship we developed will be deeply cherished in my heart through eternity. I will strive to carry forward your legacy of intellectual curiosity and service to others, and I pray that your loved ones are met with God's comforting grace throughout this difficult period. You did remarkably more for the common student than would be expected of almost any college professor at any institution, and many souls owe you a debt of gratitude for such selflessness. The countless hours spent grading assignments, coordinating class activities by your side, and even organizing your office space (or glorified time capsule as we would call it) were all so worth it for the meaningful memories we made together and the profound lessons learned under your leadership.

Thank you for the gift that you were to so many students, colleagues, and professionals alike - we are all honored that you were a part of our lives!

~ Cody Waring

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Mark,

This news hits me hard. Especially as we only spoke a few months ago. To quote another, "A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops." ~ Henry Adams.

The time I spent as your student, teaching assistance, and a friend comes to mind as a write this.

Paul Bressler
UMD Robert H. Smith School of Business 2006-2009

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Dr. Wellman helped changed the course of my life by picking my application to be in BSE in 2014. When I started at UMD, I was coming from Georgia and everything was new. It was overwhelming at first, but having BSE helped me make friends and build a community. I quickly realized through this program I wanted to pursue business and expressed my interest to Dr. Wellman about my goals. He wrote my recommendation and spring of sophomore year I was admitted to the business school. BSE and the business school were my home away from home throughout college and I could not have imagined the trajectory of my life without them. Also, I loved when you showed up to random AKPsi events to have fun with all of us. You always had a young spirit. Thank you for everything. Sending my love to all your family and friends ❤️

-Melissa Fellman

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I showed up in Mark's office many years ago as a new hire that he wasn't expecting. At the time he was managing the MBA program while simultaneously earning his PhD -- an amazing feat. I worked with Mark for 7 years and respected his ability to see the big picture and get things done. Recently, I reconnected with Mark and was overwhelmed by his warmth and immediate reconnection. He was truly an advocate for students, Smith and UMD. This wall is a wonderful tribute to the lives he impacted. My deepest condolences to his family and all those missing him. ~ Leila Collins

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I showed up in Mark's office many years ago as a new hire that he wasn't expecting. At the time he was managing the MBA program while simultaneously earning his PhD -- an amazing feat. I worked with Mark for 7 years and respected his ability to see the big picture and get things done. Recently, I reconnected with Mark and was overwhelmed by his warmth and immediate reconnection. He was truly an advocate for students, Smith and UMD. This wall is a wonderful tribute to the lives he impacted. My deepest condolences to his family and all those missing him. ~ Leila Collins

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Dr. Wellman’s approach to teaching was incredibly rare. He made it a point to give us as many opportunities to learn outside of the classroom and arm us with the skills needed to excel in the real world. His investment in our education was unmatched and you could see it in the way he thoughtfully planned our international trips.

Even more than a professor he was an incredible friend. A man of the people who celebrated his birthday at Bentley's. His attention to detail reminded you that he was always listening and always cheering you on from the sidelines. I learned that some of the most successful people are the ones who are able to form authentic connections, Dr. Wellman was a prime example of this. Thanks to his programs and his network which he made widely available to all, I met some of my lifelong friends.

I will miss Dr. Wellman and am deeply indebted to him for showing me that the best form of education is traveling. Rest easy friend.

Ana C

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I had a long friendship with Mark, going back to Bowling Green, when he was a marketing professor.  I used to work with him to get the athletes on track.  When I left Hawaii and was at American U, it was Mark who reached out and suggested that I come up and meet with Dean Howard Frank, and that led to my 20-year tenure at Maryland.  Finally, when it was time for me to retire, Mark picked up the Global Fellows program and kept it going swimmingly.  Mark’s students loved him and he loved them back, making lots of enriching experiences for them—like the time they got caught in the floods in Australia.  Thanks Mark for being a great friend and colleague over these many years!
Pat Cleveland

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It’s hard to believe it was exactly 10 years ago I was on my first study abroad trip, Dr. Wellman’s Business in Southeast Asia. Experiencing the world with Dr. Wellman sparked a wonder for travel and culture that continues to this day. I found myself reminiscing not only about this trip, but of the people and the lifelong connections Dr. Wellman helped create. My hope is that these relationships continue on and strive to honor the passion and joy that Dr. Wellman devoted to curating them. Rest easy, Professor.
~ Ryan Lee-Young

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To say that Dr. Wellman was a close friend and mentor to me would be an understatement. As many of my friends and family members know, Dr. Wellman was practically family to me.

I first met Dr. Wellman in college as a freshman student of his BSE program he led. I had the great privilege of working under him as his Teaching Assistant throughout my college experience. As his TA, I traveled the world with him on countless trips. He was legendary at planning fun and inspirational short term abroad programs. Our travels and work together formed an extremely strong bond between us.

Dr. Wellman’s dedication to influencing students lives and college experience is unparalleled. He often worked long hours to create curriculum that would engage his students. It’s impossible to comprehend the amount of impact he’s had on students lives over his 30+ year career of teaching at University of Maryland. The impact he’s had on my life alone is profound. He was a role model to me in more ways than I can think of.

My life story of how I’ve gotten to where I am today simply could not be told without mentioning Dr. Wellman. I knew Dr. Wellman on a personal level and he was a role model to me in more ways than I can think of. His dedication to ensuring the best life for his surviving mother is just one example.

It’s extremely difficult to think of a world without Dr. Wellman. His goofy behavior and life advice are just two of many areas that I will sorely miss. My hope is to embrace the many facets of life that Dr. Wellman has taught me and continue on his legacy of positively impacting people’s lives. There’s no question that he made the world a better place for the lives that he touched.

I miss you Dr. Wellman — I won’t ever forget the lessons and experiences I’ve had the great privilege of sharing with you. You will forever hold a special place in my life.

-Nelson Young

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Mark and Claudia with their students at the Emerging Markets Forum

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Mark and I were brought together almost a dozen years ago by our common interest in all things global. I came to know him as a warm, kind and compassionate human being, and a passionate, innovative and dedicated teacher. I will miss meeting him in the corridors of Van Munching where he would greet me with the trademark smile of the photograph above, and we would talk about the speaker he was thinking of bringing to campus, or a class he was taking abroad, or some new and interesting immersive student experience he was in the process of designing. I would occasionally stop by his office, where he was invariably surrounded by students. Mark was a uniquely gifted teacher, and he leaves behind a rich legacy in the many students whose lives he touched and transformed through the experiences he led them through.

My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in Peace Mark!

Kislaya

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Mark was my Director of MBA Admissions 25 years ago. We hosted his class in Singapore and 2 years back he made an intro to be an adjunct faculty. He was the sharpest and kind/ caring individual. His loss is tremendous. It is hard to imagine M&O without him . He was simply outstanding. He will be missed. Rest In Peace

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To this day, I’ll never know how I lucked out with discovering Dr. Wellman’s legendary trips as a freshman in college. It completely changed my entire undergraduate experience. He took me to the Consumer Electronic Showcase in Las Vegas, Silicon Valley, NYC, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Australia, and New Zealand. I made so many friends and memories during those adventures. I would have continued to travel with him if it was possible for alumni. It’s so hard to believe he is gone.
My condolences to his family and friends. He was very much loved by his students and will be truly missed.
Dr. Wellman, there are few people who had as much of an impact on my life as you did. Rest In Peace.
- Sylviane (Alexion) Harrison, Class of 2017

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I can't say that I knew Dr. Wellman super well or was close to him, but I remember distinctly from the Australia & NZ trip (2017) that he was a professor who truly cared for his students and made sure that we received the best experience possible. He truly valued us learning from the world as much as possible, as well as getting out to explore as much as possible. The way he carried himself on this trip really embodied what he taught, and I could see that he made the most of every moment he could. Thank you Dr. Wellman for organizing one of the best trips ever, and one that I still excitedly tell people about to this day. Sending my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones.

-Emily

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Dr. Wellman was one of a kind.

I first met Dr. Wellman as an eager freshman, taking his “Why Good Managers Make Bad Decisions” course after getting a tip from an orientation advisor that he had rave reviews. I signed up, was inspired by the course, and got to know him more. We had a shared interest in wrestling, and as the UMD Club Wrestling faculty sponsor, he took me out to a club wrestling practice. This is where I learned Dr. Wellman could give a college student a run for their money in a wrestling match.

From then on, Dr. Wellman naturally became a mentor for me, both academically and in life. He inspired me to join his UAE Spring Break trip and took me on as one of his TA’s a year later. The time I spent with him as his TA was one of the most enriching experiences at UMD and in life. He entrusted me with leading groups of students and challenged me to get out of my comfort zone by doing things that I’ve never done before. It was merely a reflection of the belief he had in all his students.

His passion was undeniable, and he worked tirelessly to create valuable, yet fun learning experiences for his students. It seemed like he was always the last one in Van Munching with their office lights on – many times, I’d stop by late in the night and he’d be blasting Bruce Springsteen while planning trips or working on courses. The stories and memories are endless, and the connections that Dr. Wellman has helped fostered is immeasurable.

Thanks for the many laughs, friendship, and adventures over the years.

Rest in peace, Professor, you’ll be missed by many.
Alex DoQuang

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When I think back on the experiences that shaped my time at UMD and beyond, Dr. Mark Wellman is at the center of so many of them.

Whether it was learning about Blue Ocean strategy or fulfilling a lifelong dream of snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, Dr. Wellman gave me an exposure to the world that I'd never had before. The community he cultivated in the BSE program brought me my best friends and a home at UMD. He was the first to teach me about design thinking and innovation -- something I continued to study at UMD and still do as a graduate student today.
But outside the college bubble, Dr. Wellman taught me and so many other students to feel at home in foreign places, to absorb the lessons other cultures have to offer. The study abroad trip he led to Australia and New Zealand in 2017 was life changing for me.

I am so grateful for his monumental impact on my own personal and professional development. His passion for creating immersive learning experiences ran deeper than the oceans we traveled, but it is Dr. Wellman's sense of adventure, simple kindness, and easygoing smile that I'll always remember. Sending my most sincere condolences to his loved ones.

- Sameera Polavarapu

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From the BSE class of 2017, I would like to express my deepest condolences to Dr. Wellman’s family. Dr. Wellman was one of the most impactful professors I had at the Smith school. I admired his ability to positively influence students to globally travel and learn outside of the classroom. Thank you Dr. Wellman for planning one of the best trips of my life. I will always remember.

- Gabrielle Bianchi

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Boats and boating--Equipment and supplies

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BMGT 466 Global Business Strategy class was hard but yet with your guidance and coaching I am able to complete it with A minus. Thank you professor for your incredible knowledge in global strategy. Your wisdom and your smile always in my heart. RIP Professor.

~ Linda Heng

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I went to Dubai with Dr Wellman in 2010. He wrote me a recommendation for business school and was a mentor. I enjoyed meeting up with him when he would do large group gatherings in new York. He was passionate about teaching, mentorship, but he was also just a kind person who touched so many students. I am sad to see him leave this earth but encouraged to see the legacy he left behind. Goodbye Mark. Thanks for your friendship.

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Serving as Professor Wellman's teaching assistant this past semester may have been the most fulfilling, insightful, and transformative thing I've ever done.

Mark took a massive gamble on me. A nineteen-year-old sophomore who had never been in-person at UMD, wasn't a Smith Student and didn't even know what Van Munchin Hall was. Yet, from the get-go, he saw something in me that I didn't even see in myself.

This past semester, being Mark's TA was anything but easy. If I'm being completely honest, it almost felt like a full-time job at times. But I'd be a fool if I didn't recognize its tremendous impact on me. Mark put me in a position where I was able to meet hundreds of extremely passionate and bright students. He put me in a position where I had to get myself out there and lead fearlessly. He put me in a position where for the first time in my life, other individuals were dependent on me. Where hundreds of students my age were counting on my actions, leadership, and initiative. Never in my life has someone had so much trust and faith in me.

While I only had the pleasure to work with Mark for one semester, it feels like I've known him for far longer than that.

Maybe it's because of the millions of hilarious stories he's told me.

Maybe it's because I essentially took his 289J course four times and listened to him lecture 5 hours straight every Friday.

Or maybe it's because of the empathy and compassion he showed me every single time I spoke to him. (Yes, even in the 9pm phone calls to troubleshoot ELMS)

I last spoke to Mark less than a week ago and oddly enough, I wouldn't change a thing about the conversation we had. It started in the typical way:

He calls, I pick up and say "Hello?"

Quickly, he replies, "Hey Oscar, what's going on?"

Like a broken record player, I respond, "Hey Mark, how are you?" only to facepalm immediately.

We start talking about the final grades and how students are performing. One thing leads to another and he's suddenly telling me a story about his experience getting his booster shot a few days prior.

But more importantly, I was able to tell Mark two things:

1 - The first thing I told him was that I decided to add finance as a double major. This might not seem significant, but ever since I've known him, he's been trying to persuade me to tackle it on. I can't express the number of times he's told me, "if you want to make money, finance is the way to do it". I know for a fact that he smiled as I told him that.

2 - The second thing I told him was a little more meaningful.

You see, for several complicated reasons that were out of everybody's control, I was not able to get paid for being Mark's TA this past semester.

He was fairly upset about that and was trying to figure out anything he could do. At that very second, I told him that "I could care less about the money" and that I never have, and never would consider being his teaching assistant for financial compensation. For me, the sheer trust and honor of having this responsibility was the only reason I accepted it in the first place. He paused, gave a hesitant "okay..." and then we spoke about something else.

Looking back, I wouldn't be a fraction of the person I am today if it wasn't for Professor Mark Wellman. He has taught me invaluable lessons on leadership and management, has introduced me to some of the brightest individuals at the Smith School, and above all else, has taught me to act with passion and care.

As my time here at UMD eventually comes to an end and I embark on my professional career, I know Dr. Mark Wellman will be watching from up above.

Mark, thank you for everything. You will be truly missed.

Oscar Casasola

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Hard to believe we will not see Mark in our M&O hallway.. Mark was just always there. Always warm and kind and passionate about his students and about his work. I will not forget always seeing the piles of papers in his office alongside young students for whom he was just an inspiration. He will be missed by our department, school, his students and the larger community. My sincere condolences to his family in this difficult time. Rest In Peace Mark, you will be missed.
Rellie Rozin

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Being able to travel to Southeast Asia with Mark Wellman was an experience of a lifetime, he really created fantastic experiences for students and was a truly honest and stand up man to talk to. He really cared about his students and wanted the greatest experience for everyone. He will be truly missed.

- Jackson Martini

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To put it simply, Dr. Wellman was the reason I came to UMD. I distinctly remember sitting through orientation listening to Dr. Wellman explain his BSE program and all the cool and wonderful things I was going to experience if I chose to be a part of BSE, and also commit to UMD. However, what convinced me was just how passionate Dr. Wellman was about giving us this curated experience - from the multiple trips to the different kinds of classes he chose for us to take - I felt the joy he had teaching his students and knew I wanted to be one of them. It was a pleasure being in his BMGT289J class, and I will always be grateful for the countless simulations he had us do that not only helped me build my critical thinking skills, but also gave me some of my best friends.

We will miss you Dr. Wellman, may you Rest In Peace.

Alisha Hukmani

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I met Mark in 2009 as a student. I enjoyed the class but it wasn't until many years later that we became closer. Every year he would always have me back to talk to his class and every year I would always look forward that wonderful interaction. You will be surely missed Mark.
-Steve Feiner class of 2010

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Dr Wellman was a great person, Professor, and mentor to me throughout my time in his BSE program. He was very caring and put in a ton of time and effort in order to make sure his students got the best experience possible. I learned so much because of him and I can’t thank him enough for all he did to help me navigate my first few years as a Terp. I was lucky enough to get to go on one of his famous trips and we had a blast. Certainly going to miss him and wish his family the best.

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Met with CEO of Harley Davidson in Singapore!

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Thank you Dr. Wellman for your dedication in creating lifelong memories for students through the experience of studying abroad. I wasn’t a business school student but I had the immense pleasure of meeting him through my study abroad trip to Southeast Asia. He made the trip, unforgettable. Not just through lessons learned but through the experiences. He made sure that we experienced the culture in the best ways possible. He will be missed!

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Very sad. Mark was such a wonderful, caring and compassionate man, colleague, teacher, mentor, and friend. Always helpful, with insight, perspective and humor when I had questions about building our entrepreneurship program in the Honors College. He has left a  wonderful legacy and will be missed by so many.  May these memories of him be a blessing for all.