UMass Dartmouth Philanthropy Report

Reaching new heights

at UMass Dartmouth

The

impact of philanthropy on our students, programs, and community

UMass Dartmouth Philanthropy Report

Fiscal year 2021-2022

Managing Editor and Writer

Kristle Gagne

Contributing Writer

Ryan Merrill

Design

Liana DePillo

Photography

Levante Anderson

Bob Bergeron

Tailyn Clark

Kindra Clineff

Deirdre Confar

Karl Dominey

Jonathan Hillyer

Christine Hochkeppel

Scott Indermaur

Jared Marshall

Kyle Prudhomme

Jennifer White

Printing

Print Synergy

UMass Dartmouth University Advancement

285 Old Westport Road

Dartmouth, MA 02747

umassd.edu

advancement@umassd.edu

508.999.8200

Thank you for your support of UMass Dartmouth! We’re excited to share with you a selection of stories that make our University special. We chose them because they highlight both the excellence that takes place at UMass Dartmouth, and the commitment that our community demonstrates to the futures of our students and the SouthCoast.

We are fortunate to have thousands of alumni, parents, and friends who support our mission. Together with faculty, staff, and students, we comprise a community focused on education and discovery. Each member of our community contributes in ways that are big and small, and we are grateful for all that they do to enrich our lives.

UMass Dartmouth is truly a remarkable institution, and we contribute to the world in so many ways. I hope that in reading these stories you will learn something new about our community, and that you will see the value in supporting our work. Most importantly, I hope you will sense the gratitude that so many of us feel for you, our donors, who give of yourselves so that our students can have a chance to live out their dream of obtaining a college degree.

Thank you!

Dean J. Hickey Vice Chancellor for University Advancement

A Message from the Chancellor

It has been an incredible year at UMass Dartmouth.

I am so proud of our students, faculty, and staff for all they achieved together. Many of our academic programs climbed in prestigious national rankings. The Commonwealth made a historic $73 million investment to help us renovate and reimagine our oldest academic building, the College of Arts & Sciences. We also continued to expand our research enterprise, which grew to $82 million in active grants. This growth means more students and faculty researching marine habitats, clean energy, apps to help people monitor their diabetes, and innovative STEM pedagogies in K-12 education.

Our Corsair football team was crowned New England Bowl champs, and men's and women's basketball made impressive playoff runs. We opened a new biodegradability lab that will help stop microplastics polluting our waters. Our students of color engaged in our "Changing the Face of Tech" partnership with Dell Technologies to diversify the tech industry.

The excitement and momentum are palpable. It's no surprise that applications are up, the number of campus tours has doubled, and our open houses for prospective students are packed. This fall, UMass Dartmouth welcomed our largest and academically strongest class in three years.

Public research universities like UMass Dartmouth are our society's most powerful engine of opportunity because we bring a college education within everyone's reach and launch students into amazing careers. With half of our students the first in their families to attend college, our graduates are changing not only their own lives but the lives of their families and communities. It is no wonder that our University is ranked No. 69 in the country and No. 2 in Massachusetts for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report.

We could not provide this transformative education without your support. Currently, 87 percent of our students apply for financial aid. Our Corsair family's philanthropic generosity gives our students the financial assistance they need to continue their journey toward success.

Thank you for making all this possible—and there's so much more we are eager to do for our students. Your generosity enables them to take advantage of all UMass Dartmouth has to offer—great classes, faculty-mentored research, internships, and more. Together, we are launching talented young people into trajectories of lifelong success, driving economic development across the SouthCoast, and building stronger communities. Thank you once again, and I hope that we can count on your continuing support.

With gratitude,

Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D. Chancellor

Protecting coastal ecosystems starts at UMassD

When Mike Joyce’s team at PrimaLoft, Inc. needed a way to test its new biodegradable, recycled insulation and fabric, he knew just where to turn—UMass Dartmouth, his alma mater and an institution that has been on the cutting edge of textile technology since 1895.

As a 1985 graduate of UMass Dartmouth and a member of the College of Engineering advisory board, Mike Joyce, president/CEO of PrimaLoft, Inc., was already familiar with the research initiatives in the areas of sustainability and the Blue Economy that would make his alma mater the ideal place to launch a testing facility for the company's new biodegradable products. He pitched the idea of creating a lab at UMass Dartmouth that would benefit his company, students, the region, and the environment.

Pat Larkin, deputy director of Massachusetts Technology Collaborative; Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito; Chancellor Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D.; Jean VanderGheynst, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering and interim dean of SMAST; Mike Joyce '85, president/CEO of PrimaLoft, Inc.

In September, the $1.2 million Biodegradability Laboratory opened at UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science & Technology (SMAST). The Biodegradability Laboratory supports the development of biodegradable and ocean-safe plastics and other materials by accelerating their path to market with a focus on increasing sustainability. The lab was created through a private-public partnership, including a $739,936 Massachusetts Technology Collaborative grant and a $450,000 investment from PrimaLoft, an industry leader in advanced material science that specializes in developing sustainable high-performance insulations and fabrics.

The lab will provide a critical service for PrimaLoft, but will also play a role in the goal to conduct research and advance the science in a location where textiles and marine science has been an integral part of the culture, history, and economy.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to bring together a business with a specific need, and a university with the ability to bring it to life," said Joyce. “This lab is positioned to be one of the premier biodegradation labs in the United States and our hope is that this lab will be the nucleus of an expanding center for sustainable innovation and research in the SouthCoast region.”

“UMass Dartmouth is a perfect location for this new facility, to build on the university’s strong marine science and engineering focus, coupled with the SouthCoast’s strong heritage of textile innovation,” said Pat Larkin, deputy director of Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.

This latest project advances UMass Dartmouth's facultyand student-driven research in advanced materials, the Blue Economy, and sustainability. “UMass Dartmouth is committed to supporting the rapidly growing Blue Economy by conducting research in important areas such as increasing ocean sustainability, monitoring ecosystems, producing renewable energy, and developing new marine technologies,” said Chancellor Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D.

BIODEGRADABILITY LAB PROJECT PARTNERS

The lab provides essential research capacity for businesses in the field for evaluating plastic biodegradability, where it will measure biodegradation of products in environmental systems where plastic waste persists including landfills, oceans, wastewater, soil, and compost.

“This new laboratory is a true partnership that demonstrates the commitment of industry, government, and academia to protecting our region's economy and natural resources," said Jean VanderGheynst, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering and interim dean of SMAST.

Components of the biodegradability machinery in the lab.

Guided by goals, fueled by ambition

Kyle Furtado ’23 is a student, a scholar, a teacher, an advisor, a technology coordinator, a web designer, and a software engineer intern. In a word, he is ambitious.

Kyle Furtado ’23 is not afraid of hard work. He’s a computer science major with a specialization in software engineering in the College of Engineering, studies in the Honors College, and is in the accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s degree program.

“Computer science is a grueling major, but I enjoy the work,” he said. “Coding is my favorite; calculus and discrete math forced me to really work hard.”

Kyle’s goal is to graduate debt-free. He works three offcampus jobs that not only pay for his education, but also align with his career goals: as a technology teacher at Antioch School in Fall River, Mass. (a role he has held since he was a first-year student at UMassD), an intern at Great Place to Learn Technology Partners in Swansea, Mass., and at the Newport Car Museum. His stellar academic performance has earned him the Donald Watson Scholarship.

His goals are as inspiring as they are ambitious. And he’s achieving them.

“My dream is to work for the Department of Defense, where I can be at the forefront of technology,” he said. Last summer, he interned as a software engineer for the combat systems department at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Newport, R.I.

Kyle’s honors courses dive deeper into topics related to and beyond computer science. His honors thesis will explore targeted digital advertising to assess the awareness and attitudes of the public on the use of ads and their personal data. He’ll also conduct research on artificial intelligence with Dr. Iren Valova, professor of computer and information science. The rigorous curriculum of the Honors College allows Kyle to develop a more holistic perspective on the field of computer science, one that he shares through his thesis and in his off-campus jobs. “It’s important to understand what’s happening behind the scenes, so you can protect yourself in today’s digital world.”

Kyle recently met John Turbak ’79, a long-time supporter of UMassD students who started the Turbak Family Scholarship. Support from loyal donors like Turbak make it possible for Kyle to participate in research and activities that enrich his college experience.

“What impressed me about Kyle was his focus on both his academic and his career goals,” said Turbak. “I am proud that as a donor, I can assist students like Kyle in their academic goals.”

Kyle is grateful for the critical financial support: “UMassD students work hard. We have a vision for ourselves, and we have goals. Removing some of the financial burden allows us to focus on those goals.”

Kyle Furtado ’23

10 years of pursuing justice

Without MarDee Xifaras's passionate and tireless efforts, there would not have been a Southern New England School of Law to become UMass Law. And without Jean MacCormack's powerful and compelling vision, we would not have become the first public law school in the over 240-year history of the Commonwealth."

Eric

The newly renovated Arc of Justice Atrium at UMass Dartmouth's School of Law honors Chancellor Emerita Jean MacCormack, the late Margaret “MarDee” Xifaras, MBA ’78, and all those who worked to create an excellent, inclusive, and affordable public law school.

Mitnick, dean of UMass Law

Dean Eric Mitnick, Chancellor Mark A. Fuller Ph.D., UMass President Marty Meehan, Chancellor Emerita Jean MacCormack, and Dena Xifaras.

UMass Dartmouth's School of Law, known affectionately as UMass Law, marked a decade of success with the unveiling of the inspiring Arc of Justice Atrium featuring commissioned art pieces that showcase the history and potential of the commonwealth’s only public law school. Today, UMass Law celebrates its ranking as third in the nation among nearly 200 ABA-accredited law schools for enrollment growth, and second among all fifteen law schools in New England for the percentage of students entering public service.

As the central gathering place at the Law School, the Arc of Justice Atrium consists of several art pieces by UMass Dartmouth MFA graduates in addition to three pieces completed by Mattapoisett artist John Magnan, MFA ’99. Magnan created the art installations to inspire and convey a call to action by all those who visit UMass Law.

The artwork and renovation of the atrium were made possible through the generosity of Chancellor Emerita Jean MacCormack. MacCormack led UMass Dartmouth during the establishment of UMass Law and was a champion for the school as the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education voted to approve the merger with Southern New England School of Law in 2010.

“I hope it inspires all the students, faculty, and staff at UMass Law, and everyone who enters the space to be leaders in pursuing justice.”

The event celebrated the late MarDee Xifaras, a New Bedford lawyer and community activist, who served on the UMass Board of Trustees and was a fierce advocate for the establishment of UMass Law. Xifaras's 2019 obituary listed the “establishment of the UMass Law School in Dartmouth as her greatest public accomplishment.”

“Our family is honored that the atrium at UMass Law is being dedicated to my mother and Jean MacCormack for their and other’s commitment to an accessible, affordable, public law school,” said Dena Xifaras, daughter of MarDee Xifaras.

captures so well the vision so many of us had in working to establish an excellent, inclusive, affordable public law school at UMass Dartmouth. I am so proud of all that UMass Law has accomplished and honored that this remarkable space is dedicated to my good friend MarDee Xifaras and myself and all our partners,” said MacCormack.

“Without MarDee Xifaras's passionate and tireless efforts, there would not have been a Southern New England School of Law to become UMass Law. And without Jean MacCormack's powerful and compelling vision, we would not have become the first public law school in the over 240-year history of the Commonwealth,” said UMass Law Dean Eric Mitnick. “UMass Law, always, will continue to be inspired by their partnership and strive to fulfill the commitment they shared to improving people’s lives and expanding access to justice."

“John Magnan’s Arc of Justice Installation

Portrait of MarDee Xifaras, MBA '78, by artist Gayle Kiley.

UMass Law Arc of Justice Atrium

Trending Up

A focus on ensuring student success powered a recent climb by the Charlton College of Business on the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Undergraduate Business Programs rankings.

UMass Dartmouth’s Charlton College of Business (CCB) was already among the nation’s most prestigious business schools, with its gold-standard accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The next step was to leverage this achievement to give students a competitive edge and bring visibility to this elite business program housed right in the SouthCoast region.

CCB Dean John A. Williams, Ph.D., and his team of stakeholders—including students, faculty, staff, CCB Advisory Board members, and local business leaders—turned their attention to student-focused metrics to make strategic changes across the curriculum that aligned with AACSB standards. It resulted in vastly improved student programs and a strong position in the SouthCoast, in the commonwealth, and in the nation by climbing to No. 144 in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report’s College Rankings. The rankings also place

CCB No. 2 in Massachusetts and No. 89 in the nation for public universities.

“Strategically programming around these metrics allowed us to create a better experience for our students by developing the coursework and services they needed to be successful students at UMass Dartmouth and, subsequently, be the future leaders in our region’s workforce,” said Williams.

Williams and the CCB team built targeted career coaching services in its newly established Career Coaching Center in conjunction with UMassD’s Career Center. They designed career supports, including resume writing, interview practice, workshops, job search skills, networking events, and other activities that address the specific needs of students entering business fields.

AACSB-accredited business programs are also guided by the principle of demonstrating a positive societal impact. For CCB, this meant identifying the needs of the local SouthCoast business community, educating students to meet those needs, and leveraging the acumen of its students and faculty to support local businesses. As a Spoke Partner in the New Bedford Economic Development Council’s new NB100! Program, CCB will offer its resources and expertise to small businesses and entrepreneurs in the SouthCoast.

Over the past few years, CCB has engaged in a dialogue with the community regarding future growth. “We aggressively listened to our regional leaders and business community and discovered what they needed was comprehensive data to make decisions for their businesses,” said Williams. In response to this need, CCB will undertake data collection on visitors to the region that will inform decisions on marketing, grant funding, and identifying growth areas.

CCB’s success inspires alumni to support students and the program’s growth. When Karyn Vincent ’85 decided to pursue college, she was guided toward a career in accounting. “My professors encouraged me to apply for jobs that I never imagined I could get. I joined a “Big 8” accounting firm in Boston, and that led to what has been a very fulfilling career. My life would have been very different had I not attended UMass Dartmouth, and I am so thankful for my education. I support UMass Dartmouth because I want to help others get the same great start to their professional career.”

Globally, less than 6% of universities with business degree programs earn AACSB accreditation, and less than 2% earn supplemental accounting accreditation. AACSB-accredited schools are globally recognized by top employers and other universities, with increased access to recruiters and more competitive salaries for graduates.

Performing at their peak

At Tripp Athletic Center, there’s a powerful laboratory of education, community, and physical performance, where UMass Dartmouth’s student-athletes develop the skills to become not just accomplished runners, basketball players, or football players, but high-performing citizens.

“Athletics are an extension of the classroom,” said Lori Hendricks, director of athletics and recreation. “Our athletics and intramural programs are learning communities supporting a culture of care, community, and championships, where students have opportunities to practice making good decisions under pressure.”

Beyond the wins and losses, or hits and goals on the stat sheets, student-athletes acquire a number of lifelong skills, like how to manage conflict, interpersonal skills, and how to stay at the top of your game physically and mentally. “As an athlete, my competitiveness leaks into the classroom by driving me to do well in my classes,” said Widline Thomas ’24, a member of the women’s lacrosse team and an active student leader. “Being an athlete has taught me discipline and drive, and made me a better student.”

This skill building is part of the Peak Performance program Hendricks initiated when she started at UMassD in January 2022. The program focuses on five essential elements that contribute to a collegiate student-athlete’s well-rounded experience: athletic excellence, academic success, personal well-being, community engagement, and career development. Through workshops and signature events on topics such as mental health, communication, study skills, and resume building, students learn how to be successful student-athletes. Peak Performance is based on Hendricks’ work at the NCAA national office

where she oversaw the development of life skills curriculum, programming, and models for campus partnerships.

The key to making the most of being a student-athlete is quantifying their collegiate athletics career to future employers. Drawing on the knowledge of Corsairs before them, students gain new perspectives from alumni who share how they successfully translated their athletics experiences to the workplace.

Alumni and supporters of Corsair athletics play a critical role in helping UMassD raise its competitive advantage to set it apart not only from other athletic programs, but elevate the entire student experience. “Bringing our alumni from the sidelines into the student-athlete experience creates a shared success,” said Bob Prince, head baseball coach. “Whether they are cheering from the stands or helping a team raise funds for a training trip, alumni and friends are integral to our culture at UMassD.”

“Our alumni and donor community is in a unique position to help us enhance our program,” said Hendricks. “Your investment in our student-athletes, whether financial or by sharing your expertise, allows us to add value to the athletics program.”

Widline Thomas ’24, Women's Lacrosse

A WINNING PROGRAM

Corsair athletes had much to celebrate in the 2021-22 year

NCAA Woman of the Year

Little East Conference: Kaitlyn Bernier ’22 (Track & Field)

NCAA Man of the Year

Little East Conference: Edward Lundy ’22 (Track & Field)

Women’s basketball

Little East Conference champions

Men’s basketball

Little East Conference champions, reached the NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen

Football

2021 New England Bowl Champions

Softball

Reached Little East Conference championship game Baseball

Reached Little East Conference championship game

Indoor Track & Field

Little East Conference champions

Outdoor Track & Field

Men’s Little East Conference champions, Cam Rodgers ’24 named All-America

Being an athlete is an important part of my life because I have learned to apply the same drive and determination I use on the field to all of my other commitments and routines."

Dante Aviles-Santos, '24

Dante Aviles-Santos '24, Football

EDUCATION Sharing the value of

Fred Lebow ’67 leaves a legacy for College of Engineering students inspired by his passion for learning.

When Fred Lebow ’67 was asked if he wanted a new diploma after the University’s name changed to UMass Dartmouth, he replied, “Sure, but do I have to take more courses?”

Given the chance, he may very well have.

Lebow has been a lifelong learner since his days at Southeastern Massachusetts Technical Institute studying electrical and mechanical engineering. As he explored working in disciplines that ranged from acoustical engineering to real estate development to construction to asbestos and lead removal, Lebow amassed a wealth of knowledge and started FSL Associates based in his native Brighton, Mass., in 1983. The company provides engineering solutions for high-tech electronic communications and real estate development. In addition to Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessments, FSL Associates offers comprehensive services in environmental, civil, and forensic engineering.

Never idle, Lebow has taken courses in masonry, construction, woodworking, and industrial photography; he even enrolled in a sewing course. At 50 years old, Lebow entered a continuing education program at Northeastern University’s Environmental and Regulatory Management Program. “There was hardly a year when I wasn’t taking a course,” he said.

He’s also a commercial pilot and a flight instructor, and is still cruising the skies today, though not as much as in the past.

“I used to fly a two-seater plane into JFK Airport in New York—that was a real exciting challenge.”

Lebow has visited UMass Dartmouth since his days as a young engineer and was inspired to support future engineers. As he approaches full retirement in two

years, he searched for a way to leave a legacy at UMass Dartmouth and began the Frederick S. Lebow Scholarship Endowment for students in the College of Engineering.

“I believe education can change someone’s life,” said Lebow. “What impressed me about UMass Dartmouth was how much they supported students and helped them change their lives.”

Coming from a working-class family himself, Lebow understands that many students cannot afford to pursue their academic dreams and future careers without financial assistance. In planning his estate, Fred decided to commit a portion of his assets to build on his already established scholarship, and takes great satisfaction knowing that he’s providing support for future generations.

“I can’t think of a better way to make an impact. Education changed the course of my life. I think we should all do what we can to ensure everyone has the same access we enjoyed.”

You can make a big impact with a future gift

visit umassd.planmylegacy.org

When you include UMass Dartmouth in your estate plan, your generosity supports our ambitious students and helps solidify our position as a national research university. For more information about establishing a planned gift,

“I can’t think of a better way to make an impact. Education changed the course of my life. I think we should all do what we can to ensure everyone has the same access we enjoyed.”

Fred Lebow '67

Fred Lebow '67

This campus is a breathtaking monument to the power of public education, to the idea that everyone— from the grandchildren of textile factory workers and students of modest means, to recent immigrants, to working moms going back to school, to veterans charting new careers after their service to our country—deserves a place dedicated to helping them achieve their dreams. This campus of concrete and steel looks like it rose out of the earth, and now serves as a beacon of hope for the entire region and as the heartbeat and lifeblood of the SouthCoast. We educate the SouthCoast’s population, and our graduates and research programs help drive its economic development.”

Chancellor Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D.

Inauguration of Chancellor Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D.

On the afternoon of Friday, October 14, 2022, Chancellor Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D., was officially inaugurated as the sixth Chancellor of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth since the campus joined the University of Massachusetts System.

Dr. Mark Fuller was appointed Chancellor of UMass Dartmouth in August 2021. A first-generation college student himself, Dr. Fuller is a passionate advocate for public higher education and is deeply committed to UMass Dartmouth’s mission as a public research university dedicated to engaged learning, discovery, and innovation. He places critical focus on student access and affordability; on diversity, equity, and inclusion; and on building and strengthening community relationships. Dr. Fuller believes that UMass Dartmouth is uniquely positioned to prepare students with the skills they need for lifelong success and making positive contributions to the commonwealth and their communities. He came to the Dartmouth campus after 12 years at UMass Amherst, where he spent nine transformative years as dean of the Isenberg School of Management, and three years as vice chancellor for advancement.

“Under Chancellor Fuller's leadership, I am confident that UMass Dartmouth will continue to be a gateway of opportunity for thousands of young people every year, and will find ways to address even more of the world's pressing challenges.”

Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito

The event included delegates from an array of distinguished colleges and universities. Also in attendance was Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito; members of the Massachusetts legislature; UMass President Martin Meehan; UMass Board of Trustee members including Chair Stephen Karam; Consul of Portugal in New Bedford Rogério Lopes; Richard Lafrance of Lafrance Hospitality; Chancellor Fuller’s family and friends; and UMass Dartmouth students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

“I am confident that his leadership, combined with all the talent, energy, creativity, and dedication present today, will make UMass Dartmouth the destination of choice for students from across the commonwealth and the Northeast. UMass Dartmouth will become recognized as a powerful engine of socio-economic mobility. A place where every student has the opportunity to chart their path to lifelong success, no matter where they started.”

During the ceremony, President Meehan presented Chancellor Fuller with the Chancellor’s Medallion, a visual representation of the importance of the role.

“Chancellor Fuller, we are all sincerely pleased that you now wear the medallion of the office and have accepted the duties and responsibilities of Chancellor,” said UMass President Meehan. “Your formal investiture is an important moment in the history of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Please accept our congratulations and our best wishes for a long and successful tenure as Chancellor.”

Stephen Karam, Chair of the UMass Board of Trustees

UMass President Martin Meehan addressing the crowd.

University News

Commonwealth invests $73M in campus learning facilities

UMass Dartmouth received $73 million in new funding from the Commonwealth to upgrade the campus’s main academic facility, the Arts & Sciences building. This funding will enhance classrooms, labs, office spaces, and student meeting spaces within the Arts & Sciences building and Campus Center building that houses the auditorium and other instructional spaces. "This historic $73 million investment in UMass Dartmouth and our students—the single largest investment in our history—will enable us to provide the learning spaces our students need to pursue their ambitions," said UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Mark A. Fuller.

The project will address upgrades and deferred maintenance needs in the campus's most trafficked building, which contains classrooms that support many programs in STEM fields, the humanities, social sciences, and student support centers. Renovations include changes to make the HVAC system more sustainable, upgrades to learning spaces and address electrical systems, window replacements, and building envelope improvements.

UMass Dartmouth announced the appointment of Dr. Hanchen Huang as UMassD’s next provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs following a highly competitive national search. Huang, who most recently served as the dean of the College of Engineering at the University of North Texas, brings dynamic academic leadership and demonstrated experience in growing enrollments, programs, and research activity.

U.S. Navy grants $4.3M to bolster research focus on marine technology development

The Office of Naval Research granted $4.3 million that will support research projects through UMass Dartmouth’s Marine and UnderSea Technology research program in collaboration with the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport. This grant will fund nine projects that focus on supporting the Blue Economy and offshore wind sectors through remote underwater sensing, battery performance for autonomous vehicles, oxidation mitigation for naval vessels, predictive modeling algorithms, and the use of autonomous vehicles to survey coastal environments.

U.S. News & World Report announced their 2023 College Rankings, which showcased UMass Dartmouth's continued excellence nationally and rankings growth in key programs. The University was once again a leader in the Top Performers on Social Mobility, ranking No. 69 in the nation and No. 2 in Massachusetts. UMass Dartmouth ranked 118 out of the 227 national public universities based on various metrics, including graduation rates, academic reputation, job outcomes, and faculty resources. In addition to the University’s overall acclaim, educational programs climbed in the 2023 rankings. The Charlton College of Business ranked No. 144 in the country for Top Business Programs, up from No. 195 in 2020. The College of Engineering climbed ten spots to No. 137 in the Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs. The College of Nursing & Health Sciences moved up three spots to No. 93 in the Undergraduate Nursing Program.

Dr. Hanchen Huang appointed Provost

Academic program rankings climb in latest U.S. News & World Report

UMassBRUT campaign wins Docomomo US Modernism in America Award

UMassBRUT, a collaborative campaign between UMass Dartmouth and UMass Amherst, received a Docomomo US Modernism in America Inventory/Survey Award of Excellence for its efforts to raise awareness and appreciation of the significant Brutalist structures that shape much of both campuses. UMassD’s bold architecture is a result of famed 1950’s and 60’s architect Paul Rudolph’s vision for an “urban” public university, coupled with progressive achievements in the fields of design and engineering.

College of Arts & Sciences

Philosophy professor receives Manning Prize for teaching excellence

Professor of philosophy and chairperson of the philosophy department, Dr. Jennifer Wilson Mulnix, was awarded the 2022 Manning Prize for Excellence in Teaching. Mulnix was chosen for her dedication to the broader university community and her participation in various faculty fellowships and grants focused on improving teaching and learning. Much of her current research focuses on the scholarship of teaching and the philosophy of happiness and well-being. One faculty member from each UMass campus was chosen and each received a $10,000 award in recognition of their exceptional teaching and commitment to their students.

Biology student named one of “29 Who Shine” by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education

Diego Alejandro Marroquin ’22 was named one of “29 Who Shine” by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education. The annual recognition honors 29 outstanding students, one from each public institution in the commonwealth. Marroquin, an immigrant from Guatemala and first-generation college student who studied biology, was chosen for his volunteer work in SouthCoast communities. Eager to promote social change, Marroquin has served as a mentor and volunteered at a local meal center. He maintained an exceptional academic record, with a 3.92-grade point average, and making the Chancellor's list (3.8 GPA or higher) each of his last five semesters.

College News

Charlton College of Business

U.S. News & World Report ranks Charlton in top 28% of undergraduate business programs

U.S. News & World Report recently announced their 2023 College Rankings, which showcased the Charlton College of Business's continued excellence and growing momentum, ranking it No. 144 for “Best Undergraduate Business Programs” among 515 programs. This places CCB in the top 28% of business programs in the U.S., and marks a 51-spot rise in rankings since 2020. Among public universities, Charlton ranks No. 89 in the U.S., and No. 2 in Massachusetts.

Diego Alejandro Marroquin ’22

College of Engineering

University awarded $750,000 to support student learning experiences in hands-on offshore wind internships

UMass Dartmouth was awarded $373,048 by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and $375,000 in matching dollars from partners BankFive, BayCoast Bank, and Bristol County Savings Bank to offer career-relevant paid internship and experiential learning opportunities in the offshore wind industry through a new program, called Closing the Experience Gap. UMassD and Bristol Community College students will gain hands-on experience with offshore wind developers and supply chain partners. The funding will help accelerate talent pipeline development for the fast-growing offshore wind industry and provide financial support for senior capstone and other project-based learning opportunities.

Physics major named Goldwater Scholar

Physics major McKenzie Ferrari ’23 has been named a 2022 Goldwater Scholar, becoming the first recipient of the prestigious recognition in UMass Dartmouth’s history. The highly competitive scholarship was established by Congress in 1986 in honor of Senator Barry Goldwater and is awarded to sophomores and juniors who show exceptional promise in becoming the nation’s next generation of natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering research leaders. Ferrari was also one of 60 students nationwide who participated in the Council on Undergraduate Research “Posters on the Hill” event and was recently accepted to the Harvard Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Research Experience for Undergraduates.

College of Nursing & Health Sciences

College of Nursing & Health Sciences awarded $750,000 to diversify the life sciences

UMass Dartmouth received a $750,000 grant from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center to connect students in one of the University's most diverse science programs, medical laboratory science, to resources that will further their careers in the life sciences. Funding will be used to add advanced technologies to the University's laboratory spaces, including microbiology testing stations, blood testing equipment, and cell manipulation hardware. Students in the program have a 100% employment rate and a 100% pass rate on professional certification.

College of Visual & Performing Arts

Interior architecture and design professor Stephanie McGoldrick earned the Interior Design Educators Council Community Service Award and the International Interior Design Association Impact Stipend for projects completed in the New Bedford community to revitalize park spaces and support small, minority-owned businesses and nonprofit organizations. McGoldrick’s projects completed with her students include lighting solutions for Wings Court park, interior and exterior enhancements for small, minority-owned businesses, space-planning and furniture recommendations for the Community Economic Development Center’s new office, and revitalizing a small pocket park in New Bedford.

Bhen Alan, BFA ’19 awarded Fulbright

Bhen Alan, BFA ’19 received the prestigious 2022-2023 Fulbright award to study indigenous mat weaving in the Philippines. Alan’s research and independent study will explore the rich banig weaving of the Philippines to understand the history and traditions of un-colonized weaving and consider its role in contemporary culture and art.

Stephanie McGoldrick earns two international interior design honors

McKenzie Ferrari ’23

Honors College

Honors College names new director

Professor Amy Shapiro was named director of the two-year-old Honors College. Shapiro sees much potential for the Honors College and its students. “I want the college to serve as an engine of economic and social mobility for our students, especially those who have been traditionally underserved,” she said. Shapiro is a long-time faculty member in the psychology department and former associate and interim dean of the College of Arts & Sciences.

School for Marine Science & Technology

SMAST & New Bedford High School partner to address diversity in field of marine science

UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science & Technology and New Bedford High School formed a partnership to offer a summer internship program. The four-week paid internship in marine sciences for New Bedford High School students creates the opportunity for students from underrepresented groups to gain exposure to the world of higher education and careers in the marine sciences. The goal is to diversify ethnicity in the field of marine science throughout the SouthCoast and beyond.

UMass Law

UMass Law sees increases in enrollment and welcomes its strongest class

UMass Law continues its upward trajectory of increased enrollment and academic quality, welcoming the strongest incoming class in its institutional history this year. The median LSAT among entering students increased to 152, and the median undergraduate GPA increased to 3.47, both records. The commonwealth’s only public law school also grew enrollment for the sixth consecutive year to 377 total students, up from 186 when it received full ABA accreditation in 2016. UMass Law ranks third in the nation among nearly 200 ABA-accredited law schools for enrollment growth yet offers the smallest first-year doctrinal course size among law schools in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Associate Professor Jeremiah Ho receives top prize for LGBTQ legal scholarship

Associate Professor Jeremiah Ho explored the divisive case of a Colorado same-sex couple who was turned away from ordering a wedding cake by a baker whose religious beliefs did not support their marriage in an article published in the Yale Journal of Law and Feminism. The article earned a top prize in the field of LGBTQ legal scholarship as one of four recipients of the Dukeminier Award from the Williams Institute at UCLA Law School. The Dukeminier Awards acknowledge the best of legal scholarship concerning sexual orientation and gender identity law.

New 3+3 program agreements added

UMass Law added two new 3+3 programs that will allow students at neighboring universities the opportunity to earn their undergraduate degree and a law degree in six years. In this accelerated degree program, students earn credits for their first year of law school during their final year of college, saving a year of tuition and associated expenses on the traditional seven-year pathway to a Juris Doctorate. Johnson & Wales University and Bridgewater State University are the two newest institutions to collaborate with UMass Law on the 3+3 program. Other partners include: Anna Maria College, Assumption University, Fitchburg State University, Framingham State University, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Regis College, Salem State University, Springfield College, UMass Boston, UMass Dartmouth, UMass Lowell, Westfield State University, and Worcester State University.

Making an impact at UMass

Fiscal Year July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022

$6,140,188 raised in new gifts and commitments in FY22

Total new gift commitments:

Directing your impact

Long-lasting gifts

Endowment funds are essential to maintaining and enhancing the quality of the academic and student experience at UMass Dartmouth. The funds, which generate income in perpetuity, help pay for vital needs such as financial aid, research support, and student programs. Growth in our endowment reduces UMassD’s dependence on revenue from tuition, thus ensuring that a college education remains affordable and accessible.

Total amount of endowed funds: $58,740,670

• 289 endowed funds

• Newest endowed scholarship: Chancellor Jean MacCormack Public Service Fellowship

155 gifts made in honor of or in memory of individuals, including:

In Memory of

Ryan P. Nolan '07

Rev. Richard G. Parker

Professor Allan R. Robinson

Professor Marc St. Pierre

In Honor of Professor Antonio H. Costa

Professor Emeritus Ron DiPippo

Professor Karen Payton

Nancy E. Pink '77

Diane D. Souza '79

Kenny Tencza, Jr. '20

MarDee Xifaras, MBA '78

James M. Zeiba '90

A community dedicated to UMass Dartmouth

2,075 individuals and organizations made a commitment to invest in the future of UMass Dartmouth students, programs, and the community

Dartmouth

Matching fund program help grow endowments

UMass Dartmouth was allocated $975,500 of funds from the Public Higher Education Endowment Incentive Program in fiscal year 2022. With the support of this additional funding, the University and donors were able to establish eight new endowments—more than $300,000 in total private philanthropic commitments. This incentive program provided the impetus for creating new endowments or adding to existing ones. A UMassD alumna was able to increase the value of her endowed scholarship with a $44,000 gift plus a $200,000 pledge through the power of the match. The PHEEIP Program also encouraged a group of volunteers to form a committee to raise additional gifts for the MarDee Xifaras Community Activist Scholarship to support UMass Law students, established after her death in 2019. In less than a month, 43 donors contributed, taking advantage of the matching funds.

Impact on the community

SouthCoast proud

• 42% of total undergraduate students are residents of the SouthCoast

• 37% of alumni are residents of the SouthCoast

• 64% of total employees at UMassD are residents of the SouthCoast

Supporting our community

• UMassD students completed over 211,00 hours of community service.

• 82% of the class of 2022 was enrolled in at least one service-learning class

Excellence in research

Total research enterprise in FY22:

• 2022 total new awards for research and development: $26M

• 2022 federal funding awards for research and development: $17.7M

• 2022 research and development expenditures: $17.01M

Giving societies recognize the loyalty, leadership, and legacy of donors to UMass Dartmouth and UMass Law.

1895 Society

Named in honor of the year of the incorporation of our predecessor institution, New Bedford Textile School, the 1895 Society recognizes UMassD’s most generous and loyal donors. We honor four foundational pillars within the 1895 Society.

Loyalty Circle

Steadfast donors who have given an annual gift at any level in the most recent two or more consecutive years.

877 members

Chancellor’s Leadership Circle

Individuals who demonstrate a commitment to UMass Dartmouth through annual support of $1,000 or more.

211 members

Lifetime Giving Circle

Individuals whose cumulative donations reach $100,000 or more.

86 members

Campanile Legacy Circle

Donors whose gifts benefit UMass Dartmouth in the future, through estate gifts, beneficiary designations, and gifts that pay income to the donor.

76 members

1981 Society

Donors to UMass Law are acknowledged in the 1981 Society, named for the year our predecessor institution, Southern New England School of Law, was created. We honor two foundational pillars of philanthropy within the 1981 Society.

Loyalty Circle

Donors who have given an annual gift at any level in the more recent three or more years.

33 members

Dean's Leadership Circle

Individuals who demonstrate a commitment to UMass Law through annual support of $1,000 or more.

28 members