The UMass Lowell Honors Program began in 1995. Instrumental in its creation were Eric Sheldon, Eugene Mellican, Robert Kunzendorf, and Jacqueline Moloney. Many have played a leading role in supporting Honors over the years, including several directors and associate directors, as well as many Honors Coordinators including Elizabeth Donaghey, Veronica Gadbois, Kristen Rhyner, and Brooke Crossman.
On Feb. 27, 2014, recognizing the strength of the Honors Program and its contributions to UMass Lowell's rising stature, the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees voted to elevate the program to an Honors College. James Canning, Ph.D. became the first dean of the UMass Lowell Honors College on June 1, 2014. In the fall of 2014, Elizabeth Donaghey was appointed the Director of the Honors College.
After James Canning retired in June 2020, Jenifer Whitten-Woodring, Ph.D. was named as interim dean.
Past Deans
Past Directors
- Eric Sheldon, Ph.D.
- Eugene Mellican, Ph.D.
- Stephen Pennell, Ph.D.
- Noelle McAfee, Ph.D.
- Alice Waters, Ph.D.
- Doreen Arcus, Ph.D.
- Julie Nash, Ph.D.
- James Canning, Ph.D.
Past Associate Directors
- Eugene Mellican, Ph.D.
- Robert Kunzendorf, Ph.D.