Flavin not seeking re-election

by Daniel J. Fitzgibbons, Chronicle staff

Nancy Flavin

ancy Flavin, the highest ranking Amherst campus graduate in the state House of Representatives, last week bowed out of the fall election, saying she wants a less hectic lifestyle after 10 years on Beacon Hill.

     A 1987 graduate, the Easthampton Democrat is currently assistant vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee and a member of the House leadership team. She formerly chaired the House Insurance Committee. She also represents the towns of South Hadley and Hadley.

     This week, interim Chancellor Marcellette G. Williams said Flavin's decision to step down represents a huge loss to the University.

     "While no one can disagree with her choice, her departure is significant for the University," Williams said. "Not only has Representative Flavin been a friend of the University, she has been a strong champion as well. She has supported the University in many ways, not only helping to bring in resources, but also as a very effective problem solver. In her own quiet way, she has been an extraordinarily effective advocate."
Williams singled out Flavin's support of the Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Initiative, a collaboration between UMass and Baystate Medical Center in Springfield.

     "Without her support, I am not sure that project could have developed as it has," Williams said. "She was key to bringing state resources to that initiative."

     Williams said that while Flavin is leaving the Legislature, "She will always be an alum, and we hope to continue to count on her for support and insight. We wish her all the best as she pursues new paths."