By Layla James
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
For nearly 25 years, Alison Rios Millett McCartney has dedicated her career to higher education, helping students grow both academically and personally.
Now approaching her 10th year at Towson University and serving as dean of the Honors College, McCartney was recognized in March as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women for 2026.
Although her career path eventually led her to higher education, McCartney originally envisioned a different future for herself.
“My father was a professor, and I grew up around him and originally wanted to pursue a career in political journalism,” McCartney said.
It was not until her second year of graduate school that she discovered her passion for teaching and working within higher education.
Since stepping into the role of dean in July 2024, McCartney has focused on expanding opportunities for students while maintaining the close-knit environment that defines the Honors College.
According to TU Provost Melanie Perreault, McCartney’s leadership has already contributed to major progress within the program.
“Since stepping into the role of Dean of the Honors College in July 2024, Dr. McCartney has played a central role in elevating TU’s Honors College as a top choice for the region’s most driven students,” Perreault said in a statement.
Perreault also noted that the Honors College has reached its highest enrollment to date at 800 students and continues to expand through curriculum development and experiential learning opportunities.
“We’re currently just over 800 students, and I would love to eventually reach 1,000 students,” McCartney said.
She added that new support staff members joining the program in June will help the college continue expanding while still maintaining its supportive atmosphere.
“Continuing to provide that tight-knit support system with larger resources” remains one of her primary goals for the future of the Honors College, McCartney said.
Outside of campus, McCartney was recently recognized as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women, an honor awarded by The Daily Record to women recognized for professional success, community service and mentorship.
According to The Daily Record, an online news organization, hundreds of nominations are reviewed each year through a multi-stage judging process involving former honorees and community leaders from across Maryland.
Despite the recognition, McCartney said she views Towson University’s nomination itself as the true honor.
“That Towson nominating me was the real honor,” McCartney said, adding that she hopes the recognition brings more attention to the Honors College.
Throughout her career, mentorship has also played a major role in her professional growth.
McCartney said she has been fortunate to have mentors guide her throughout every stage of her career. One mentor she specifically highlighted was Towson presidential scholar Dr. Nancy Grasmick.
“She’s someone I can talk things through with,” McCartney said.
Now in a leadership role herself, McCartney hopes students leave the Honors College with more than academic success.
She said integrity is one of the most important qualities she hopes students develop during their time in the program.
“Regardless of what path they choose, I hope they will put their best foot forward,” McCartney said.
As the Honors College continues to grow, McCartney remains focused on balancing expansion with community, ensuring students continue receiving the personal support and guidance that helped shape her own journey into higher education.