Hogan’s welcome commitment to Baltimore

I applaud Gov. Larry Hogan’s focus on Baltimore as the cultural and economic heart of Maryland (“The economic engine of Maryland,” Sept. 18). Baltimore needs sustained attention and resources, especially those communities that have long been neglected.

At the University of Maryland, Baltimore, we’re focused on preparing people to succeed in the jobs Governor Hogan wants to create. We’re developing job skills training programs for West Baltimore residents and helping residents find and apply for jobs on our campus. We’re increasing the business we do with local companies that employ our West Baltimore neighbors.

Of course, becoming job-ready starts long before the job search begins. So UMB is mentoring West Baltimore middle-schoolers and, over years, guiding them into health care careers. We’re partnering in area elementary schools, providing families the services they need to get their children into school every day ready to achieve. The community engagement center we’re opening in West Baltimore will provide health screenings and referrals, as well as legal and social services, to residents who face barriers to employment.

We look forward to working with Governor Hogan and Mayor Stephanie RawlingsBlake on partnerships and policies that will create good jobs for Baltimore’s people and strengthen this city we love.

Dr. Jay A. Perman, Baltimore The writer is president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore.