The College of Southern Maryland has received the first payment on its $100,000 pledge from Community Bank of Tri-County for its initiatives to address nursing and health care workforce shortages, to establish an Institute for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, and to endow a student scholarship fund for access and success. "For the last 50 years, CSM has established its reputation as the leading resource for accessible education to citizens in Southern Maryland," said Mike Middleton, president and chairman of Community Bank of Tri-County.

"Community Bank's investment in the future of CSM recognizes the need for community support of its vision and purpose to serve generations to come," Middleton added.

Celebrating the first payment on the donation are, from left, CSM Foundation Board of Directors Vice Chair and Executive Vice President/Chief Lending Officer with Community Bank of Tri-County Greg Cockerham, President and Chairman of Community Bank of Tri-County and CSM Board of Trustee Mike Middleton, CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried and CSM Vice President of Advancement Michelle Goodwin.

As the College of Southern Maryland celebrates its 50th anniversary, the CSM Foundation marks a major milestone in the history of the college with its "Campaign for the Next 50 Years." The campaign has raised more than $4.28 million in cash and pledges and more than $3 million in grants. Funds raised support an Institute for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (ISTEM), a Regional Center for Trades and Transportation Technologies; and initiatives to address local nursing and health care workforce shortages; focus on educational excellence, and endow a student scholarship fund for access and success.

For information, call (301) 934-7604 or (301) 870-2309, (240) 725-5499 or (443) 550-6199, ext. 7604 or visit www.csmd.edu/foundation