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Massachusetts Athletics has announced a $1 million matching gift from Doug ’71 and Diana Berthiaume to support the UMass Hockey Excellence Endowment. The Berthiaumes will match dollar-for-dollar commitments of $25,000 or more, directly benefiting the program by providing long-term support for UMass Hockey and ensuring student-athletes receive an exceptional experience while representing the university on and off the ice.

The UMass Hockey Excellence Endowment was established to provide long-term financial stability and resources for the program, helping to ensure continued competitive excellence moving forward. The endowment, made possible by the support of alumni and community members, assists with scholarships, coaching resources, equipment, training facility enhancements and overall program development.

“We are proud to contribute to the continued success of UMass Hockey,” said Doug Berthiaume. “Under the outstanding leadership of Coach Carvel, not only has the team won championships on the ice, but their student-athletes consistently maintain the highest GPA among athletic programs at UMass and lead in annual community service hours. Diana and I are proud to support such great representatives of the university, and we hope this gift will have a significant impact on the lives of future hockey student-athletes at UMass.”

“Doug and Diana are renowned for their commitment to advancing excellence across all areas of our university. Their dedication to our community is inspiring,” said Chancellor Javier A. Reyes. “We are deeply grateful for this transformative gift, which will help to elevate our hockey program and enrich the experiences of our student-athletes.”

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The Berthiaumes have a long history of philanthropy at UMass, having given more than $37 million to the university. Doug is a founding director of the UMass Amherst Foundation and served as co-chair of UMass Rising, the university’s previous record-setting philanthropic campaign. The retired chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Waters Corporation, a Milford, Massachusetts-based company, Doug also serves as chairman of the Boston Children’s Hospital Board of Trustees. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from UMass Amherst in 2005.

“I commend and thank Doug and Diana for their commitment to UMass Hockey, Coach Carvel and our student-athletes,” said Director of Athletics Ryan Bamford. “The Berthiaumes’ support speaks to the immense pride they have in the University of Massachusetts and the impact of our hockey program amongst our alumni/ae.”

“My deepest gratitude goes to Doug and Diana for this incredibly generous gift to our program,” said Greg Carvel, UMass Hockey head coach. “This gift toward the endowment ensures our student-athletes have the resources and support they need to excel both on the ice and in the classroom. Doug and Diana’s commitment to our team and the future of UMass Hockey speaks volumes about their continued dedication to this university. Their generosity will leave an indelible mark on UMass Hockey, and we couldn't be more thankful.”

More information and information on how to contribute to the UMass Hockey Excellence Endowment can be found on UMassAthletics.com.