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University of Maryland President Cleared of Plagiarism Allegations

12/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A yearlong review by law firm Ropes & Gray cleared Darryll J. Pines, president of the University of Maryland, of plagiarism allegations.
The investigation found no evidence of misconduct but noted attribution errors.
Allegations claimed Pines lifted portions from a tutorial website in two papers co-authored in 2002 and 2006.
The University System of Maryland expressed confidence in Pines's leadership after the review.

History

Historical Context

In 2006, the University of Maryland faced allegations of plagiarism among faculty, prompting a review of academic integrity policies by the University System of Maryland. This scrutiny reflects a broader historical concern about academic dishonesty, which has been prevalent since the late 19th century. The recent review of Darryll J. Pines highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining ethical scholarship in higher education.

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Story summary

A yearlong review by law firm Ropes & Gray cleared Darryll J. Pines, president of the University of Maryland, of plagiarism allegations.
The investigation found no evidence of misconduct but noted attribution errors.
Allegations claimed Pines lifted portions from a tutorial website in two papers co-authored in 2002 and 2006.
The University System of Maryland expressed confidence in Pines's leadership after the review.

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