Over a decade of service and counting…
Dr. James C. McShay: Director, Multicultural Involvement & Community Advocacy
Over the last seven years, I have had the distinct pleasure of working with [Tarif] at UMD while I served as an Associate Director at the Adele H. Stamp Student Union – Center for Campus Life and Director of the Multicultural Involvement and Community Advocacy Office. During this time, I’ve had a front row seat to observing Mr. Shraim’s unparalleled level of support and advocacy for Muslim students. Through his various roles as spiritual leader, adviser, teacher and mentor he has been a critical figure in ensuring the retention, well-being and success of countless numbers of Muslim students. The positive impact that Mr. Shraim has had on this community by way of the rich relationships that he’s cultivated and leveraged over the years with staff, faculty and the chaplaincy is incalculable. He has earned their trust and respect because of his high integrity, passion for diversity, and deep concern for helping members of the Muslim community feel as if they are part of the fabric of the University of Maryland. Mr. Shraim has truly been a cherished gift to our campus – one that I hope will remain with us for many, many years to come.
Dr. Linda M. Clement: University of Maryland, VP of Student Affairs
I have always been amazed at the number of hours he [Tarif Shraim] volunteers working with our campus community. He is absolutely beloved by our students. He is their advisor, mentor, role model and advocate.
Osama E: B.S. Bioengineering, ’13
[Our Chaplain] Tarif was, by far, the most influential figure on me during my years at the University of Maryland. Through enlightening conversations and group discussions, Tarif helped us negotiate our faith against contemporary social and political currents. On a personal level, Tarif was a friend and mentor who provided a role model for balanced, intelligent, and thoughtful faithfulness.
Dr. Marsha A. Guenzler-Stevens: Director, The Stamp Student Union
Tarif Shraim is a valued colleague at the University of Maryland. Tarif serves our large and engaged community of Muslim students, faculty and staff as a leader, spiritual guide, and as an impassioned advocate. Over the course of Tarif’s association with the University I have relied on him to help the Muslim community and the broader university respond to crises and in times of collective unrest.
Denise McHugh: Manager, Memorial Chapel, Activities and Engagement
Having Tarif Shraim in our midst is a blessing to the entire University of Maryland campus. Chaplain Shraim contributes in important ways to the well-being of our students and staff through his deep understanding of his Muslim faith, his wonderful ability as a communicator, and his calming and generous spirit. Over the years, we have called upon Tarif during challenging moments on campus and he has been of enormous assistance in helping us forge a positive path.
Omari S: B.S. 13′
I consider Chaplain Tarif above all to be a friend and mentor. He was a comforting voice for me as I struggled with the questions of faith through my early years as an undergrad. His mentorship emboldened me to challenge the status quo as a growing leader and community activist. Now, as I transition through the important decisions of my mid 20s he has cemented his role in my life as an advisor and friend. Chaplain Tarif’s work is simply indispensable and should be supported as an enduring investment in the well being of generations of college students passing through the University of Maryland.
Dr. Kumea Shorter-Gooden: UMD Chief Diversity Officer & Associate VP
Our campus is committed to respect for and support of religious diversity and to creating a campus that is inclusive of people of all religions. Chaplain Shraim has been indispensable in this work. He has clearly forged important and meaningful connections with UMD Muslim students and with the Muslim community in the broader College Park area. He is someone to whom students look for leadership and guidance. He is very committed to working with faculty, staff and students of other faiths in order to deepen our collective knowledge and understanding of people of diverse beliefs.
Bushrah R: B.S. Biological Sciences, ’13
As the 3rd terp in the family, I’ve found a home at UMD that can’t be found at any other university – a big part due to [our Chaplain] Tarif. His incomparable kindness and support has been monumental in my own growth, and he has always been someone I can turn to for advice, Islamic knowledge, and motivation to become closer to God. He truly is one of my best teachers, and I know this is where his heart truly lies – in helping undergrads like myself blossom into more thoughtful, purposeful students and Muslims.
Rev. Holly Ulmer: United Campus Ministry
It has truly been a special joy and a privilege to have had Tarif Shraim as a chaplain colleague for 15 years at the University of Maryland. Tarif is such a vital part of our University of Maryland campus community. I have witnessed his inspiring ministry with Muslim students and his exemplary leadership for interfaith events and dialogue. He communicates his deeply held faith with such grace, respect and kindness. People from many diverse faith traditions and identities respect him and are richly blessed by him. I could not ask for a better ministry colleague.
Binta T: B.S. Family Science, ’18
After delivering a talk, [our Chaplain] Tarif leaves the audience full of hope and inspiration. His words penetrate the soul in a way that few people can do. While his weekly lectures are the highlight of my week, his full-time presence would make a world of a difference in many people’s lives.
Tubah S: B.S. Accounting and Information Systems, ’11
I would have been lost if it wasn’t for the guidance of our Muslim Chaplain. His approach to connecting college-age students with the Qur’an is so incredibly beautiful and unique. I felt for the first time in my life that Islam was relevant to me.