LA PLATA, Md. — The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) marked a historic milestone on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, with the ribbon-cutting of the newly reopened Southern Maryland Studies Center (SMSC). The celebration coincided with the anniversary of the college’s first day of classes in 1958, linking the past and present through education and community heritage.
Held inside the Dr. Elaine Ryan Library at the La Plata Campus, the event drew state and county leaders, alumni, historians, faculty and residents eager to celebrate the return of a resource long recognized for documenting Southern Maryland’s story.
Honoring The College’s Roots
“That long ago evening, Charles County Junior College opened its doors with 12 faculty members to 23 students at the original La Plata High School, which is now the site of the Charles County Government Building,” said CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson. “In that moment, access to higher education suddenly became within easy reach for the then 15,000 residents of Charles County. More students arrived each subsequent year, partnerships were tied and the college’s momentum grew as we widened our reach into our sister counties of St. Mary’s and Howard.”
Wilson noted that nearly seven decades later, CSM serves tens of thousands of alumni whose contributions ripple across the region. “Through the successes of our tens of thousands of students and alums, we see the tremendous impact within the communities for whom we serve,” she said.
Preserving Southern Maryland’s Story
The SMSC began in 1976 as the Southern Maryland Room, offering a central hub for regional research. Quickly expanding, it developed a national reputation as a significant repository of historical and genealogical resources.
“Books and unpublished documents, newspapers, photographs, slides, maps, oral history tapes and artifacts quickly filled our shelves,” Wilson recalled. “The room soon became the Southern Maryland Studies Center. It earned a national reputation as being a significant repository of genealogical research, oral histories, maps and images.”
Today, the SMSC houses more than 200 archival collections, including manuscripts, photographs, rare books, maps, oral histories and microfilmed county and church records, newspapers and subject files spanning from the 18th century to the present. Its holdings shed light on the economic, social and political forces that have shaped the region, with materials covering Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, as well as the southern portions of Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties.
Remembering Champions Of Preservation
Wilson honored Sally Barton, CSM’s first archivist and a former trustee, who helped shape the SMSC from its earliest days. Barton, who passed away in 2022, ensured her legacy of preservation continued by entrusting her commitment to the college and its community.
“She laid the foundation for the treasured collection we preserve and share today,” Wilson said. “When she passed away in 2022, Sally ensured that her commitment to CSM and our community will continue.”
A Community Celebration
The program included remarks from CSM Trustee Emeritus Wm. Daniel Mayer, Southern Maryland Delegation Chair Del. Edith Patterson, CSM Trustee Emeritus Dorothea Smith, former Trustee Dr. Janice T. Walthour, Alma Jordon of the UCAC History and Research Committee, Mark Wilkins of the Calvert Marine Museum and CSM Library Director Mary Johnson.
Local dignitaries, including Commissioner President Reuben Collins, representatives from Sen. Chris Van Hollen’s office and fellows from Rep. Steny Hoyer’s office, joined in the celebration. Members of CSM’s President’s Cabinet were also recognized.
The mood was one of gratitude and excitement, with many attendees reflecting on how the SMSC’s reopening will once again provide a hub for students, genealogists, researchers and families to connect with their history.
“So it’s especially appropriate then, as we dedicate our Southern Maryland Studies Center, to also remember the college’s 67 years of history that have brought us to this moment,” Wilson said. “We are grateful for those who have come before us and who paved the way, and for those today who share their passion and energies to permit us to a journey of excellence. Where all are empowered to succeed.”
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting in the SMSC reading room, followed by refreshments and tours of the revitalized space.
Visit The Studies Center
The Southern Maryland Studies Center is located on the first floor of the Learning Resource Building at the La Plata Campus in Room LR116 (Reading Room). Beginning Sept. 22, 2025, the center will be open to the public Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with additional appointments available by request.
What CSM Offers Today
Since Wilson’s arrival as president in January 2023, CSM has strengthened its connections across Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, expanding opportunities for students and the broader community. The college now offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, workforce training, continuing education, dual enrollment for high school students and adult basic education.
CSM operates campuses in La Plata, Leonardtown, Prince Frederick and Hughesville, along with a complete online campus. It also operates the Velocity Center at Indian Head, a state-of-the-art innovation and collaboration hub that supports workforce development, entrepreneurship and defense industry partnerships. The recent launch of a nonprofit institute has further deepened community partnerships, ensuring CSM remains a resource for everyone wishing to grow their education.
Learn more about CSM and all that it offers at www.csmd.edu.
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The CSM’s archivist name was Sally Barley, not “Barton”.