A Letter from the Dean

Dear Alumni and Friends,

It is such an honor to serve as the new Associate Provost for Interdisciplinary Programs at UMass Amherst, and in that capacity, as the dean for University Without Walls. The UWW Department of Interdisciplinary Studies has a storied legacy and an excellent reputation as a national leader in higher education. During my first month on campus, I have observed the quality and impact of this department’s work firsthand. We have an extremely dedicated team of staff who are welcoming, collaborative, and knowledgeable. We also have experienced and talented faculty who are fully committed to the academic success of each individual student. And through our UMassGives campaign this spring, it is clear that we have supportive alumni who remain connected to UWW Interdisciplinary Studies and recognize its value.

I come to this role from West Virginia University, where I served for the past few years as the director of the online adult education program and the multidisciplinary studies degree. I saw the liberatory power of higher education firsthand, as it transformed the lives of students. Likewise, our mission here at UWW is vitally important. We promote access to higher education for everyone. Equipped with higher learning, the lives of our students and their communities become freer, healthier, wealthier, and wiser.

In the months ahead, I hope to connect with you, hear your stories, and share ideas of how we can continue to evolve and grow. Please do reach out to me anytime. Working together, we can honor our rich tradition and create new opportunities for future generations of students.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Scott Davidson