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UMass Amherst has been named a recipient of the 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from Insight Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. Additionally, as one of the selected institutions to rank in the top tier of HEED Award recipients, UMass Amherst has also been named one of a limited number of Diversity Champions that exemplify an unyielding commitment to diversity and inclusion throughout their campus communities, across academic programs and at the highest administrative levels.

The annual HEED Award is a national honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a recipient of the award, UMass will be featured, along with 113 other recipients, in the November/December 2024 issue of Insight Into Diversity magazine.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Insight Into Diversity HEED Award, along with the distinction of being named a Diversity Champion," says UMass Vice Chancellor of Equity and Inclusion Marsha McGriff. “This recognition affirms the many years of dedication and hard work our community has invested in advancing equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging at UMass Amherst. It is a testament to the deep commitment we hold to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all. At UMass, diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion is not just an initiative — it is woven into the fabric of our institutional values and mission. This acknowledgment only strengthens our resolve to continue this important work, ensuring that every member of our campus feels valued and empowered to thrive.”

“The HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees — and best practices for both — leadership support for diversity, campus culture and climate, supplier diversity, and many other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” says Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of Insight Into Diversity magazine. “We take a detailed approach to reviewing each application in deciding who will be named a HEED Award recipient. Our standards are high, and we look for institutions where diversity and inclusion are woven into the work being done every day across their campus.”

More information about the HEED Awards, including a complete list of recipient  institutions, can be found on the Insight Into Diversity magazine website.