Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) News Brief

Dr. Sanjay Rai Appointed as Maryland's Secretary of Higher Education

Secretary Dr. Sanjay Rai (far right) pictured alongside Governor Wes Moore, Lt. Governor Aruna Miller (center), and Additional Executive Leadership from Across State Government

Baltimore, MD — The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) is pleased to announce that Dr. Sanjay Rai was appointed as Secretary by Governor Wes Moore and officially sworn in on May 1, 2024.

Confirmed by the Senate during the 2024 legislative session, Dr. Rai brings over 30 years of experience to the Commission. He has dedicated his career to improving access to higher education and enhancing student success. For his work, he has been recognized globally as a scholar and institutional leader.

"I am incredibly honored to have been appointed to the esteemed role of Secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission," said Dr. Sanjay Rai. "It fills me with immense pride to embark on this journey of improving outcomes for students and families through innovative statewide policies and strengthened connections within the higher education community. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Maryland, and my commitment to enriching postsecondary education in our state is unwavering."

MHEC is the regulatory and coordinating board that establishes policies for public and private colleges and universities in the state and for-profit career schools. MHEC also administers over $130 million in financial aid programs annually that assist students in achieving their higher education goals.

For more information on Secretary Dr. Sanjay Rai's recent appointment, please visit Governor Wes Moore's official press release.