Smith Mourns Passing of Alumnus, Former Lawmaker Doug J.J. Peters

The University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business mourns the passing of Doug J.J. Peters, 60, a 1985 finance graduate and former Maryland senator.

Peters, who died Dec. 30, 2023, recently worked to establish and endow the Honorable Douglas J.J. Peters ’85 and Corinne T. Peters ’88 Maryland Promise Scholarship to support need-based scholarships for UMD undergraduates.

The milestone was formally announced in 2021, as Peters was sworn in as a member of the University System of Maryland Board of Regents. This followed 14 years of service in the Maryland State Senate, including as Majority Leader, representing the 23rd district in Prince George's County

“Doug provided incredible support and dedication to the Smith School,” says Smith Dean Prabhudev Konana. “He will be well remembered for his substantial contributions to educational initiatives at the Smith School, the University of Maryland and statewide. His friendliness, helpful nature and encouraging tone will remain in our hearts and minds."

Illustrative of Dean Konana’s tribute, Peters held his Board of Regents swearing-in ceremony before the UMD mascot-Testudo bronze statue in the courtyard area outside of Van Munching Hall. At the time, Peters said, “I have seen throughout my career – and throughout my life – the transformative impact that our Maryland higher education institutions have on people’s lives. To be involved in those universities, and to work toward their enduring successes, is an opportunity for which I am deeply grateful.”

Peters was also a Captain in the United States Army Reserve and earned a Bronze Star Medal during Operation Desert Storm. Read more about his life and passing via the Washington Post and Maryland Matters.