Overview
The University of Massachusetts (UMass) Lowell became one of the five public institutions of higher learning in the UMass system in 1991 under Chapter 75 of the Massachusetts General Laws. UMass is led by a president who oversees the UMass system and by a chancellor at each campus. It is also governed by a board of trustees composed of 22 members, 17 of whom are appointed by the Governor of Massachusetts for five-year terms and 5 of whom are UMass students elected by the student body for one-year terms. The board shapes general policies that govern all five campuses in the UMass system.
As the administrative head of the university, the chancellor of UMass Lowell reports to the president and is supported by a senior vice chancellor for Finance, Operations, and Strategic Planning; a provost; an assistant vice chancellor for Student Affairs and Events; a vice chancellor for Advancement; a vice chancellor for Research and Innovation; a vice chancellor for University Relations; and a director of Athletics.
UMass Lowell is a member of the Massachusetts public higher-education system, which consists of 15 community colleges, 9 state universities, and 5 UMass campuses. It is located at 1 University Avenue in Lowell. As of spring 2016, UMass Lowell had a student population of approximately 16,874.
UMass Procurement Card Program
The President’s Office and each of the UMass system’s campuses administer a procurement card (ProCard) program. The use of the card simplifies the purchasing process for routine expenditures. According to the university’s Procurement Card (ProCard) Program User’s Guide and Policies, “The ProCard is to be used for purchases related to university business only. Use of the card for personal purchases is strictly prohibited.” Each month, ProCard users are required to prepare a ProCard activity log, which represents a reconciliation between purchases made during the month and the bank statement, and submit it with supporting documentation (i.e., receipts and/or affidavits) to their supervisors to be reviewed, approved, and signed. During the audit period, there were 1,257 ProCards used by university department heads and other authorized employees to purchase approximately $13.5 million of goods and services directly.
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) provides civil rights protections and requires equal opportunities for people with disabilities. According to the ADA, a “disability” is one of the following:
A. a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities . . .
B. a record of such an impairment; or
C. being regarded as having such an impairment.
The statute specifically prohibits discrimination in employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications.
UMass Lowell has established policies to assist disabled students by providing reasonable accommodations through services and programs. Student Disability Services staff members provide assistance through the university’s Wellness Center.
| Date published: | June 12, 2018 |
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