He will lead CHHS in its mission to deliver innovative research, consulting, and academic programs that address the challenges in emergency management, homeland security, and public safety.
The following letter was sent by UMB Provost and Executive Vice President Roger J. Ward, EdD, JD, MSL, MPA:
I am delighted to announce the appointment of Markus Rauschecker, JD '06, as the new executive director of the University of Maryland’s Center for Health and Homeland Security (CHHS), effective Jan. 13, 2025. Markus succeeds Michael Greenberger, JD, the founder and outgoing director of CHHS, who recently stepped down after more than two decades of visionary leadership.
Markus has been a cornerstone of CHHS since 2008, contributing over 16 years of expertise in emergency management, cybersecurity, and public policy. During his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in advancing CHHS’s mission of supporting governmental and institutional organizations in strengthening their emergency management, homeland security, and health security capabilities.
In his most recent role as Cybersecurity Program director, Markus worked extensively with federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as private-sector partners, to address complex legal and policy challenges in cybersecurity. His work included developing plans, conducting training, and facilitating exercises to enhance preparedness and responses to cyber incidents.
Markus has led and contributed to numerous high-impact projects, including supporting the chief of staff of the National Capital Region Senior Policy Group, implementing the District of Columbia’s Continuity of Operations (COOP) program, and providing operational support to the District of Columbia Presidential Inaugural Committee for the 2009 and 2013 Presidential Inaugurations. Since 2017, he has also served on the Maryland Cybersecurity Council by appointment of the Maryland attorney general, where he has chaired the Critical Infrastructure Subcommittee and supported legislative efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and data privacy protections statewide.
A dedicated scholar, Markus has presented at notable conferences such as the US Cyber Command Symposium, the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education, and the Maryland Emergency Management Symposium. His published work has appeared in Maryland Law Review, JURIST, and the American Bar Association’s Law Practice Today. He has also provided expert testimony to the U.S. Senate, Maryland General Assembly, and local government entities on topics ranging from cybersecurity to public safety technology.
In addition to his professional achievements, Markus is passionate about education and mentoring. As a lecturer in law at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, he has taught courses on cybersecurity law, cybercrime, international cybersecurity, and information privacy, inspiring and guiding future leaders in these fields.
As executive director, Markus will lead CHHS in its mission to deliver innovative research, consulting, and academic programs that address the ever-evolving challenges in emergency management, homeland security, and public safety. His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence will ensure CHHS remains at the forefront of these critical areas.
Please join me in congratulating Markus on this well-deserved appointment and in supporting him as he embarks on this exciting new chapter for CHHS.