A Dual Honor for UMBC
Two UMBC student‑athletes have been selected as finalists for the America East Man and Woman of the Year awards, a testament to their combined excellence in the classroom, on the field, and in the community.
Marie Abongwa’s Track Legacy
Senior Marie Abongwa, a standout in women’s track and field, will graduate this spring with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. She holds UMBC records in the outdoor hammer throw and has earned multiple all‑conference honors, including a bronze medal in the shot put at the 2026 America East Outdoor Championships. Her athletic prowess was recognized earlier with the Most Outstanding Field Performer award at the 2025 Indoor Championships.
Josh Odunowo’s Basketball Journey
Graduate student Josh Odunowo, a key member of the Retrievers men’s basketball team, helped lead the squad to the America East Conference title. This season he posted averages of 8.4 points and 5.2 rebounds while shooting 53 % from the floor. Odunowo will complete a master’s in professional studies this spring, having previously earned a BA in sociology from Columbia University in fall 2024.
Service and Leadership
Both nominees have demonstrated a strong commitment to service. Abongwa volunteers as a throws coach and mentor at a local high school and works as a research assistant at a psychiatric research center. Odunowo has been an active participant in community programs such as Heart and Hand, Parks and People, and Civitan, supporting student‑athletes and local outreach.
Looking Forward
The upcoming awards ceremony will spotlight these accomplished students as they prepare to transition from UMBC and Columbia into the next phases of their careers. Their nominations reflect not only personal dedication but also the broader impact of UMBC’s integrated approach to academics and athletics.