An Open-Minded and Diverse Community
Our Commitment to You
The University of Massachusetts Amherst has a long-standing commitment to social progress, a deep value for different perspectives, and a drive for inclusive excellence.
As a public land-grant institution, UMass Amherst has a historic and present-day responsibility to provide access and opportunities for all people. We foster a community of mutual respect by ensuring a safe, progressive, and understanding campus for everyone.
Richard DuCree '91 was the first Black photo editor at the Massachusetts Daily Collegian. He has gone on to capture images around the globe, in sports arenas and on movie sets, and in the continuing struggle for racial justice. See his story in the latest issue of UMass Magazine.
Guiding Us Forward
The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion guides UMass’s efforts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion through programming and resources for students, faculty, staff, and the community.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst was awarded a five-year, $3 million ADVANCE Institutional Transformation grant to support our efforts at advancing gender equity.
The Building a Community of Dignity and Respect campaign promotes a community that honors differences, where interactions are thoughtful, and the humanity of everyone is seen. Subscribe to the Dignity and Respect in Action podcast, hosted by Vice Chancellor for Equity and Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Nefertiti Walker, to hear interviews with members of the university community and other experts on topics including racial justice initiatives on campus, accessibility and ableism, allyship, the Black experience, gender diversity, and more.
Campus Pride named UMass Amherst among the 2021 "Best of the Best" LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges and Universities, awarding us 5 out of 5 stars on its Campus Pride Index.