News and Events

Join in on the 5 Weeks of Fun as we start reflecting on what has been a tremendous year for MCRPA! 5 Weeks of Fun is all about finishing the year strong. There is one event each week, culminating with the annual retreat. 

Week 1: National Poetry Month Celebration with MCRPA
Tuesday, April 29, 2025, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Access Event via Zoomnew window

Whether you're an aspiring poet, a seasoned writer, or simply a poetry lover, this is your chance to share your favorite original compositions or beloved poems by famous authors. Bring your creativity and appreciation as we come together in an inclusive, welcoming space to enjoy poetry in all its forms. All are invited to participate, share, or simply listen and find inspiration.

We look forward to celebrating the joy of poetry with you! No prior poetry experience necessary—all voices welcome!

Week 2: Asian Culture Crafts - Origami
Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
SV Atrium, Rockville Campus

Join us for a hands-on cultural event celebrating the art of origami—the traditional Japanese craft of paper folding. Participants will explore the creativity of origami by learning to fold decorative paper flowers. Whether you're new to origami or already experienced, this event offers a fun and relaxing way to engage with a meaningful cultural tradition.

Bring your curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to try something new as we celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month through the shared joy of making art by hand.

Week 3: Sparking Joy at Work (Even When You’re Burned Out)
Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Register through Workday, Super Staff Tuesday

Join this presentation during Super Staff Tuesday. Let’s be real, some days, joy feels like a luxury we can’t afford at work. Between the meetings that could’ve been emails, the endless to-dos, and the general “burned toast” vibe of workplace burnout, it’s easy to forget what a good day even feels like. This session is for anyone who’s still showing up but wondering how to feel something other than exhaustion. We’re not here to slap a smile on things or hand out toxic positivity. Instead, we’ll explore what real workplace joy looks like: tiny moments of meaning, connection, and lightness you can actually build into your day. You’ll reflect, reset, and test-drive a few joy-sparking habits you can take with you. Whether you’re feeling crispy at the edges or just in need of a mood shift, this hour is your chance to breathe a little easier and leave with something real. We will send a reminder with the direct link to register through Workday.

Week 4: End of Year Social Hour
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 4:30 p.m.
Yardhouse Gaithersburg, Rio Washingtonian

Come and connect with fellow members at our last off-campus event of the year. It will be a great time to reflect on what has been a tremendous year for MCRPA. RVSP for Eventnew window.

211 Rio Blvd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Yardhouse Rio Washingtonian websitenew window

Week 5: MCRPA Annual Retreat
Thursday, May 29, 2025
Manakee Building, Rockville Campus

Join MCRPA for a momentous event, our 10th Annual Retreat! Explore a variety of exciting sessions that focus on our theme for this milestone event of music, movement, food, and travel.

Limited space remains. Registration is available until we reach the maximum number of participants. After that, a waitlist will be held. Remember to complete two tasks: accept the calendar invitation and complete the registration form listed in the calendar event.

We cannot wait to see you at these upcoming events as we conclude the academic year!

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If March felt like it flew by in a blur of professional development, community engagement, and conferences—you are not alone! This month was full of incredible moments, and I’m so proud of how our MCRPA community showed up, showed out, and supported one another through it all.

We experienced an amazing Staff Enrichment Day, where colleagues from across the college gathered for learning, connection, and growth. We celebrated member Thanh King for earning the prestigious Peggy Bebee Distinguished Staff Award. We helped our communities through Mobile Market volunteering, got moving with the Walking Movement Challenge, laughed together at the Friends of the Library Comedy Fundraiser, and even rounded things out with some bold performances at Karaoke Night. If you hit that high note—whether literally or metaphorically—congratulations!

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Get Involved and Make a Difference with MCRPA!

Joining a committee is one of the best ways to actively participate in the Montgomery College community. As a member, you have the chance to contribute and shape the future of MCRPA. Our committees consist of dedicated members who serve and support the mission of MCRPA. Each committee meets once a month, offering members insights into current initiatives, upcoming events, and important updates.

Interested in attending a committee meeting? Click a join link below at the time of the meeting.

Want to receive a calendar invite? Email the Committee Chair/Vice Chair and they will send a calendar invite.

We look forward to having you join us kick off the new academic year!

Membership, Marketing, and Communication
First Wednesday of the month, 10:00-11:00 p.m., Chair and Vice Chair: John Amoroso and Nghi Nguyen

Professional Development
First Thursday of the month, 2:00-2:45 p.m., Co-Chairs and Vice Chair: Michele Knight & Kimberly Bloch-Rincan and Anna Donohoe

Community Engagement and Events
Second Tuesday of the month, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Chair and Vice Chair: Maria Martinez and Nichole Land

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MCRPA publishes annual newsletters and reviews to share the work that we do to support our community. If you like what we are doing, come join us and be part of the narrative.