A message to start off the fall 2020 semester
Dear UMass Dartmouth Community,
As we begin the first day of classes, I hope that we are all excited about the semester ahead. Not everyone can be on campus, and we cannot gather to celebrate this occasion properly, but it is exciting to think that in these times, we can still pursue our mission of academic excellence.
In 1895, our institution began as a textile school that offered evening classes to local mill workers. Today, we are a nationally ranked research university with world-class faculty, dedicated staff, and ambitious students. Throughout our history, we have innovated and evolved to meet the challenges of our times. It is that spirit that I wish for everyone to carry with them throughout the fall semester.
For our students, whether you are remote or face-to-face, our faculty and staff have been working all spring and summer to create an environment that allows you to continue your studies as safely and with as few disruptions as possible. For those students taking courses on campus, we have many new health and safety protocols. Please familiarize yourself with these policies that will help keep yourself and everyone else on campus safe. If you are remote this semester, please know that you are an important part of our community. As we move through the semester, please know that regardless of your location, we will be here for you. UMass Dartmouth is a special place and you have worked hard to get here, and everyone will do all they can to help you on your journey. Do not hesitate to reach out for academic or personal support.
Everyone in the UMassD community must care for one another during these challenging times. A pandemic has disrupted our way of life, an upcoming national election is dominating the media, and we are grappling with the country’s past and present issues with race. But I have hope that together we can educate a generation of leaders that will use their passion, creativity, and persistence to help promote economic, social, and cultural transformation.
I recently sent the UMass Board of Trustees this report that shows the continued excellence and incredible accomplishments of our community, despite everything that is taking place around us. I look forward to seeing you lead us to even greater heights during the current academic year.
Welcome back to UMass Dartmouth everyone. Have a great semester!
Mark Preble, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Chief Operating Officer and Acting Chancellor