A History of World Engagement at UMass
UMass has a long-standing history and commitment
to global linkages and education. Not long after it admitted its
first class in 1867, then Massachusetts Agricultural College hosted
international students from Brazil, Chile, and Japan. In 1876
the president of the College, William Smith Clark, traveled to
Hokkaido, the northern province of Japan, to help establish the
Sapporo Agricultural College at the request of the Japanese emperor.
From its beginnings, the University has encouraged
international outreach in support of community development. More
recently it has also worked to build a learning community on campus
that fosters students’ moral development and active involvement
for social justice.
