The moment was more than a ceremonial toss; it was a vivid illustration of the community‑first vision McCormick laid out in her recent think piece:
Deepening Baltimore ties. College Night puts MICA side‑by‑side with one of the city’s most beloved institutions, reinforcing McCormick’s call for “ever‑stronger civic partnerships that power Baltimore’s creative future.”
Serving the creative economy.
Just steps from the mound, fans could explore the Birdland Murals—a nine‑piece public‑art series at Camden Yards curated by internationally known street artist, and MICA Alumn, GAIA who graduated from MICA as a degree in interdiscplanary sculpture from MICA in 2011, and featuring several fellow MICA alumni. The project exemplifies McCormick’s goal of positioning the College as a hub where art, design, and innovation fuel inclusive economic growth.
After the pitch, McCormick reflected: “Art and baseball may seem worlds apart, yet both bring people together and ignite imagination. Tonight shows how MICA’s creative talent can animate the very heart of Baltimore.”
With the College approaching its bicentennial in 2026, the first‑pitch spotlight—and the Orioles’ showcase of alumni‑driven murals ringing the ballpark—signal a shared commitment to celebrating local talent, cultivating civic pride, and advancing Baltimore as a dynamic center for creativity and innovation.
