UMass Amherst Alumni Association

News

UMass System Reorganization Requires Further Research

Dear Alumni Association members and fellow alumni,

On June 13, 2007 the UMass Amherst Alumni Association Board of Directors hosted a meeting with representatives from the Office of the President of the University of Massachusetts pursuant to media reports of a reorganization of the UMass system. The purpose of our meeting was to discern fact from fiction and to begin a continuing dialogue regarding the future of our great University.

While no one can dispute the considerable academic and research strengths of the University of Massachusetts, there is opportunity to further elevate its profile and reputation as a top-tier University. To this end, Governor Deval Patrick has announced that a committee he established to review his education proposals, will also look at governance issues and the structure of the UMass system. The review will focus on collaboration between campuses, other higher education institutions, and with the public and private sectors to determine how to better serve University students and the Commonwealth, and to strengthen the University’s standing among the nation’s higher education institutions.

The UMass Amherst Alumni Association is dedicated to working in the best interest of students, alumni, and the University and will continue to work to ensure a fair evaluation and representation of alumni interests. As there are currently no plans for UMass president Jack M. Wilson to serve as both president and UMass Amherst chancellor on an interim basis, we will also continue to work with Chancellor John V. Lombardi to deliver programs and services that strengthen the lifelong bond with our alumni and enhance the academic and social experience of the student body.

Many thanks to all those who contacted the Alumni Association to express your opinions regarding a proposed reorganization—your voices were heard and will continue to be represented in future conversations. You may also read a letter posted by UMass president Jack Wilson to the UMass community, and provide constructive feedback on achieving the goals outlined, or to suggest others that you feel are important.

You were. You are. UMASS.

Sincerely,

Hal Lane ’60
President
UMass Amherst Alumni Association