The university strives to:
  • Promote a campus that is accepting of all differences;
  • Develop a more culturally responsive campus community;
  • Improve campus climate;
  • Strengthen community connections;
  • Increase the recruitment, hiring and retention of a diverse faculty and staff;
  • Increase the recruitment, retention and graduation rates of undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds;
  • Strengthen pipeline programs; and
  • Integrate a curriculum that fosters cultural competencies.
AACEE Logo
The university is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI) by the Department of Education as an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AAANAPISI).
Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award logo

Again in 2023, UMass Lowell received the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine for outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Badge recognizing UMass Lowell as a top diversity employer for 2023
UMass Lowell has been recognized as a Top Employer for 2023 by Diversityjobs.com for dedication and commitment to building a diverse workforce and culture.

By the Numbers

  • 40
    Percent of undergraduate students are students of color
  • 10
    Percentage point increase in faculty diversity in 10 years
  • 29
    Percent of graduate students are students of color
  • 96
    Percent of buildings on campus are accessible
  • 28
    Percent of undergraduate students are first generation
  • 35
    Percent of undergraduate students are LGBTQ

Diversity Events

More Diversity Events

Diversity News on Campus

See all Diversity news
  • A woman smiles for a picture while holding an old black and white photograph

    Bucky Lew Finally Getting His Due

    Lowell native Bucky Lew, who became the first Black professional basketball player in 1902 and later coached the Lowell Textile School team, will be recognized during a UML men’s basketball game on Feb. 22. He is also the subject of a recent book by English alum Chris Boucher ’93.
    Featured Story
  • Two young women blow bubbles through a colorful hoop that another woman is holding

    Meet the Librarian Who is Focused on First-Year Students

    Yolanda Hood, the UMass Lowell Library’s new first-year experience and instruction coordinator, ensures that students know about the resources and services that are available to them to help them succeed.
    Featured Story
  • A young man in a baseball hat holds a piece of paper with drawings on it

    Business Alum Swings Big with Benji Ball

    Business alum Benjamin McEvoy ’21 has turned his DifferenceMaker project Benji Ball into a game that’s now being played in nearly 200 school districts in 41 states across the country.