Students at the College of Southern Maryland are playing a direct role in improving campus life through Hawk Pitch, a creative competition that invites them to propose new projects and initiatives.
The program challenges students to submit a video explaining their idea, how it could be implemented and how it would enhance student engagement and campus life. This spring, five submissions were reviewed by the College Innovation Alliance, a group of faculty and staff dedicated to fostering innovation at the college. The alliance sponsors and helps implement the first-place proposal.
First place went to Natalie VanDevander for the Nesting Nook, a dedicated space where students can rest and recharge between classes. VanDevander highlighted the challenges of balancing long classes, coursework, exams and part-time jobs, which often lead to fatigue and reduced concentration. She noted that a safe, comfortable environment aligns with the college’s goals of increasing student belonging and momentum.
As the winner, VanDevander received a $525 CSM Foundation scholarship and a new Lenovo laptop. The Nesting Nook project will be implemented on campus.
Second place was awarded to Lila Haines for the Hawk Cast, a student- and faculty-led podcast. The show would feature students sharing tips on campus involvement and faculty offering advice on turning degrees into careers. Haines emphasized that students sometimes feel hesitant to seek help and need accessible resources.
Haines received a $525 CSM Foundation scholarship and a CSM swag bag.
Timothy Martinez took third place for proposing the CSM Research Outreach Organization, or CROO. The group would connect students to research opportunities on campus and beyond, addressing barriers such as finding positions and navigating applications. As an engineering student, Martinez drew from his own experiences pursuing research work.
Martinez received a $300 CSM Foundation scholarship and a CSM T-shirt.
CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson praised the competition for giving students a platform to share bold ideas that strengthen the college and enhance the student experience. The College Innovation Alliance works to build a culture of innovation through collaboration and partnerships aligned with the college’s strategic goals of access, momentum and mobility.
Hawk Pitch submissions are accepted in the fall and spring semesters. Previous winners’ videos are available on the Hawk Pitch website, providing inspiration for future participants.
The competition reflects CSM’s commitment to student engagement and innovation. By turning student ideas into actual campus projects, the program helps create a more supportive and dynamic learning environment.
For students in Southern Maryland, Hawk Pitch offers a direct way to influence their college experience. Proposals like the Nesting Nook address practical needs such as rest and focus, while initiatives like the Hawk Cast and CROO expand opportunities for involvement and career preparation.
The College Innovation Alliance plays a key role in evaluating submissions and bringing winning ideas to life. This collaborative approach ensures that student proposals are feasible and aligned with institutional priorities.
VanDevander’s Nesting Nook project is expected to provide a valuable resource for students managing demanding schedules. The space will offer a place to reset, potentially improving academic performance and overall well-being.
Haines’ Hawk Cast podcast could serve as an accessible platform for sharing information about campus resources and career pathways. Student-led content often resonates more effectively with peers.
Martinez’s CROO proposal aims to demystify research opportunities and equip students with application skills. Research experience can be valuable for transfer students and those pursuing advanced degrees.
The Hawk Pitch program demonstrates how student voice can drive positive change at CSM. By providing scholarships and implementation support, the college encourages creative thinking and leadership among its students.
Southern Maryland students attending CSM benefit from programs that connect classroom learning with real-world application. Hawk Pitch bridges that gap by turning ideas into tangible improvements to campus life.
The competition continues to evolve, with submissions accepted twice a year. Students interested in participating can find more information on the Hawk Pitch website.
