Over the years, the Institute has assisted other General Assembly committees as well, including the House Ways and Means Committee. At about the same time, state agencies began to utilized IGS expertise. For example, the Institute has worked with the Department of Natural Resources on the state's tributary team initiative, the Maryland Alternative Dispute Resolution Commission and the Maryland Environmental Service. Most recently, civic groups and other nonprofit organizations in Maryland have become part of the Institute's clientele. In 1993, the Institute established its first Advisory Board.
Members are officials and citizens who are experienced in governance at all levels in the state.
Establishing the board was important for the Institute, providing guidance and an outside perspective on our activities. The unit was established to improve and coordinate the university's service and outreach efforts to state and local governments. This change was an exciting opportunity to link more campus resources to the state and local governments and offered new and beneficial services to the citizens of Maryland.