Our Commitment
Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging goes far beyond any one office. These ideals and aspirations are deeply embedded into the core of UMass Amherst. We envision being a leader in promoting and maintaining an inclusive university community that fully reflects the diversity of the region and world, in which all community members can feel included, connected, and valued, and that fully embeds and fosters well-being for people, places, and planet. Please explore how our university serves and supports our community members.
UMass Mourns the Loss of Henry M. Thomas III
Henry M. Thomas III, 77, the first person of color to lead the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees and a tireless advocate for civil rights as longtime president and CEO of the Urban League of Springfield, died May 25.
“His commitment to UMass and to his hometown of Springfield was central to everything he did, and his legacy will impact young people in Springfield for generations to come.” - UMass President Marty Meehan
UMass Amherst Showcase at the Henry M. Thomas III Center at Springfield
Saturday November 7, 2026, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center at Springfield
Welcoming our neighbors in Springfield and beyond to discover, experience, and connect with UMass Amherst.
Join us for a dynamic half-day showcase highlighting the opportunities, innovation, and community that make UMass Amherst a destination for learning and discovery. While designed for students and their families from 6th grade to community college, this event offers a unique opportunity for anyone to explore the university's academic programs, research initiatives, student life, and support resources. All are welcome to join in exploration and curiosity!
Introduction to Restorative and Transformative Justice: Seeding Restorative Mindset in the UMass Amherst Community
In this interactive workshop, participants will be invited to root into their own unique core values while learning about the historical origins of restorative practices, as well as some key vocabulary, core concepts, and essential inquiries that inform and support such practices. Presented in partnership with the Office of Equity and Inclusion, the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access, and Social Justice Education.
Save the Date for JEDI 2026!
The 5th annual Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Conference will be held on September 16-17, 2026.
Hosted by the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) in collaboration with campus-wide partners, the JEDI Conference affirms the university’s commitment to equity and inclusion. It aims to build community and connection across campus; showcase campus resources supporting equity and inclusion; and promote a sense of belonging for all members of the UMass community
Federal Actions
UMass Amherst is committed to protecting the privacy, wellbeing, and safety of its community. This page collects and shares resources for students and employees in response to changes in the federal landscape. Please refer to this page for updates.
Imagining 2034: Our Strategic Plan
The university's multi-stage strategic planning process will be informed by a respect for UMass Amherst’s rich history as the commonwealth’s flagship campus and public-land grant institution, ambition for excellence in all we do, and recognition of our responsibility to steward our financial and human resources. The planning process incorporates existing school and college strategic visions, aspirations, and goals, in addition to understanding opportunities for—and impediments to—success. UMass Amherst will strive for inclusion and transparency in every aspect of this important process.
OEI Strategic Plan
UMass Amherst is committed to measuring our progress as we advance our campus strategic plan, For the Common Good. Here you will find dashboards the Office of Equity and Inclusion's campus-level goals that illustrate key metrics being tracked over time. We wlecome you to learn more about our strategic priorities and our progrss!
Where to Turn for Help
As valued members of the UMass community, we stand together in fostering an environment of support and empowerment. Your voice matters in preventing and addressing mistreatment, bias, or discrimination. Explore the resources available to you and trust that we're here to assist you every step of the way. If you or someone you know has been harmed, please explore these resources for reporting and support.