University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
PA-7: Support for Underrepresented Groups

It is the policy and practice of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (hereinafter “UMass Dartmouth” or “University”) to prohibit harassment and discrimination to all regardless of gender, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law, in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services and the selection of vendors who provide services and products to the University. It is of paramount importance that every member of the UMass Dartmouth community is treated with fairness and respect at all times. UMass Dartmouth strives to provide equal employment and educational opportunities for all in an environment free from discrimination and harassment, including sexual misconduct.

The University will not tolerate discriminatory or harassing conduct that affects employment or educational conditions, interferes unreasonably with an individual’s school or work performance, or that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or school environment.
Harassment of employees or students occurring on campus or its satellite facilities, in connection with work-related travel, and/or at University-sponsored events will not be tolerated. Furthermore, retaliation against an individual who has cooperated with an investigation of a complaint of discrimination or harassment based on protected class status is similarly a violation of policy and will not be tolerated.

The University takes allegations of harassment and violations of equal opportunity seriously and will respond promptly to complaints. Where it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, the University will act promptly to eliminate the offensive conduct and will impose corrective measures as necessary, including disciplinary action where appropriate, which may include termination of employment or the initiation of the student conduct process.

While UMass Dartmouth does not have an interdisciplinary “bias response team”, the institution’s Office of the Chief Diversity Officer is charged with responding to allegations of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and sexual misconduct filed by faculty, staff, and students.

The University does participate in the Upward Bound program which is year round and multi-year to support high school students who have the potential to succeed in college and could benefit from tutoring, academic enrichment, pre-college skills development, career counseling, cultural enrichment and year-round academic and social support.

We also have a College Now / START programs are the University's alternate admission program. It provides academic counseling, instruction and individualized attention for program participants. It supports academically disadvantaged students.

Students have access to a number of support programs through the College Now program, the Frederick Douglass Unity House, Center for Women, Gender & Sexuality, the STAR Center (academic support in Arts & Sciences). The Resident Assistants are also trained in diversity, equity and inclusion issues and are available on every residential floor.

The office of Faculty Development supports the development of junior, mid-career and senior faculty to achieve success, productivity, and satisfaction at each phase of their academic careers.