COLLEGE PARK, Md - Today, the University of Maryland announced that Blakely R. Pomietto has been named to the position of Assistant President and Chief of Staff for the Office of the President, effective July 2, 2025.
Pomietto brings a wealth of higher education and administrative experience from within the University System of Maryland (USM), most recently serving as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). She has spent more than two decades working across the USM in a range of academic and leadership roles, including serving as Director at the University of Maryland School of Public Health, where she functioned as Chief of Staff, and Deputy Chief Academic Officer at UMGC. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Maryland and a doctorate in education from Capella University.
As Chief of Staff, Pomietto will collaborate closely with university leadership and internal and external stakeholders on a range of programs and initiatives. She will provide critical input and counsel to assist with strategic planning, decision-making and in fostering strong relationships between the Office of the President and key partners on campus and throughout the community.
“Dr. Pomietto brings a wealth of experience in higher education administration, plus extensive knowledge of our state and our campus from her more than two decades working within the University System of Maryland,” said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. “With her strong foundation, I am confident that she will be able to dive in quickly as we lead our campus in pursuit of excellence.”
Pomietto succeeds Michele Eastman, who retires June 30 after four decades of service to the university.