The president of the University of Maryland, College Park manages the day-to-day operations of the University of Maryland, College Park. The president is expected to work cooperatively with the University Senate and the University System of Maryland Board of Regents to effectively manage the university.
The school was known as the Maryland Agricultural College from its founding until the state of Maryland assumed control of the university in 1916. It was then renamed the Maryland State College.
The name of the school was changed to the University of Maryland in 1926.
Elkins served as President of 5 campus University of Maryland network from 1970-1978.
Following the departure of Wilson Homer Elkins, the Chancellor assumed the responsibilities of the President.
In 1989, the office of the President was re-established following the re-organization of the public schools of Maryland under the new University System of Maryland.