Overview
Emerit status at UMass Lowell (UML) is a prestigious recognition of a faculty member's significant contributions to the university upon retirement. This honorary title is awarded selectively to faculty members who have demonstrated long-term excellence in their academic careers. Emerit faculty maintain access to a variety of resources and privileges that keep them connected with the university community, allowing them to continue contributing to academic and campus life post-retirement.
Application Process for Emerit Status
The UMass Board of Trustees Policy (T93-054) outlines the criteria and process for awarding emerit status:
- Eligibility: Must be retired permanently, typically after a minimum of 10 years of service, and have held the rank of full professor.
- Nomination Process: Nominations can be initiated by any member of the university community. Recommendations are submitted by the department to the dean, who forwards them to the Provost, for final approval by the Chancellor.
Benefits for Emerit Faculty:
UMass Lowell provides emerit faculty with a range of benefits, ensuring their continued engagement:
- Library Access: Full access to the university library, including borrowing privileges and digital resources.
- Research: Eligible to apply for Research and Scholars Investment Fund offered twice per year.
- Email Access: Continued use of the UMass Lowell email address.
- Software Access: Access to certain university software systems. Visit the Information Technology's Services By Category page for more information.
- Recreation Center Access: Full access to the UMass Lowell's Campus Recreation Center and its facilities (note: requires campus waiver).
- Parking: Ability to purchase parking at the posted rate (currently $175).
- Transportation: Free use of UML shuttles and busses.
Additional Resources:
In addition to formal benefits, UMass Lowell provides further resources to keep emerit faculty active and connected. Below are some additional offerings:
- Senior Adjunct Faculty Status: Emerit faculty who wish to teach part-time will be granted the status of senior adjunct faculty.
- Mentoring Programs: Emerit faculty are invited to mentor junior faculty members or students, contributing their expertise to help guide new generations of scholars. Apply to the UMentor Program to become a mentor.
- Access to the Faculty Success Center: Emerit faculty at UMass Lowell are encouraged to remain active and engaged by accessing the Faculty Success Center's space (located at University Crossing 140) and resources. Emerit faculty can enjoy access to tools and resources, including academic workshops, and guidance on staying involved with the university community. To request access or learn more, email: Faculty_Success@uml.edu.
- Bookstore Discount: Emerit faculty can take advantage of discounts at the UMass Lowell bookstore for most university-branded apparel and gifts (excluding textbooks and some electronics).
- Learning in Retirement Association (LIRA): Emerit faculty can engage in lifelong learning through the Learning in Retirement Association, which provides seminars, workshops, and discussion groups on various topics.
- Age-Friendly Campus: As part of the University's commitment to being an age-friendly campus, emerit faculty are encouraged to participate in activities and initiatives that promote the well-being and engagement of older adults.
For more information, email: Academic_Affairs@uml.edu.