An Important Message from Chancellor Subbaswamy

In an email message sent to faculty, staff and students today, Chancellor Kumble R. Subbaswamy announced his plans to retire at the end of June 2023. The email is as follows:

Dear Campus Community,

I could not be prouder of this university and serving as its chancellor has been the greatest privilege of my professional life. I write to you today to share that, grateful for all that we have accomplished together over the past decade, I have made the decision to retire at the end of June 2023. I am announcing my intention now, to provide President Meehan adequate time to conduct a search for the next chancellor, thus ensuring a smooth transition in leadership.

When I arrived in Amherst in July 2012, I was filled with excitement at the prospect of leading this institution, as I recognized two critical components: UMass Amherst possessed all the indicators of a top-tier public research university, and this community of faculty, students and staff were exceptional in their commitment to excellence.

For the past ten years, we have worked together, building on that excellence. And, we have achieved success in all key areas, from attracting growing numbers of diverse, high-achieving students to steadily improving graduation rates to conducting cutting-edge research with real-world impact. By channeling our revolutionary spirit, we have become one of the fastest rising top-tier public research universities in the country.

Over the next year, I will remain focused on fulfilling our mission as the flagship campus of the commonwealth. Together, we will work on significant university efforts, such as expanding UMass Flex; advancing Carbon Zero; addressing campus issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion; and preparing for our new fundraising campaign.

I am so appreciative of the support I have received from all of you throughout my tenure so far. In the months ahead, I look forward to working with you, as we continue the commitment to excellence that defines our great university.

Thank you and GO UMASS!

Sincerely,

Chancellor Kumble R. Subbaswamy