Matthew J. Ramsey begins at McDaniel as new coordinator of Human Services Management graduate program

Matthew J. Ramsey has joined McDaniel College as the new Laurence J. Adams Endowed Chair in Special Education and coordinator of the master’s degree program in Human Services Management.

In this role, Ramsey also serves as president and CEO of Target Community & Educational Services, Inc., whose mission is to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of customized, community-based programs in Carroll and Montgomery counties.

Ramsey came to McDaniel from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, where he was a professor and educational leader. Most recently, he served as co-chair of the School of Education and assistant academic dean of the college. He also mentored doctoral students as a senior academic advisor with the Johns Hopkins University.

Additionally, he has a significant background in special education, including as a special education teacher and principal.

“I began my life with individuals with disabilities at a week-long summer camp, where I continue to volunteer each summer. Then, during college, I worked in a summer recreational program for youth with disabilities, provided in-home respite care, and eventually became a case manager in group homes and semi-independent living apartments. This experience in community engagement, independent living, and personal development was transformational,” said Ramsey.

“I was particularly drawn to this role at McDaniel due to the unique service-learning opportunity that students in the Human Services Management program get to have in partnership with Target,” added Ramsey. “This experience really sets McDaniel students apart in their preparation for a career with the disability community.”

Ramsey holds a Ph.D. in Special Education and School Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Kansas. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Benedictine College and a Master of Science from Emporia State University in Kansas.