Controller's Office Highlights

01/30/2025
By Sharon-Anne Mapes

Our campus has successfully completed the annual external audit performed by KPMG with a clean opinion. A big thank you to the UML community for adhering to the policies and procedures that help us maintain a strong internal control environment!

Travel Update
Please note the new email address for sending travel itineraries (both hotel and air travel) to the University travel registry Healix: UMass.TravelRegistration@healix.com.
Completion of Assumption of Risk for High-Risk Destinations form will now be required for Faculty/Staff traveling to High-Risk destinations. Non-Study Abroad Students will be required to complete a Release of Liability for High-Risk Destinations. These forms can be found in the Company Notes section of Concur under UMass Lowell forms and links.
For travel-related questions, continue to refer to UML’s Travel Page. If you need further assistance, please email your questions to Travel@uml.edu.

Commodity Code Update
A new Commodity Code has been introduced to differentiate between Computer/Laptops/Tablets and IT Peripherals. Use the UPST Commodity Code Crosswalk to easily find a Commodity Code.

DASH
We are excited to introduce DASH, a new and improved option for human subject payments. DASH offers a more economical, manageable, and flexible solution compared to the Declining Balance Card. Contact controller@uml.edu to learn more about DASH.
Super User Tips:

• Stay Informed: Visit the UML Financial Systems Blog for important Summit updates.
• Mileage Rates: The 2025 Mileage Rates are available.
• Buyways Repository Module (BRM): Please continue to use BRM for creating, storing, and managing all non-vendor agreements.
  • BRM will improve approval workflow, enhance tracking capabilities, provide legal and PCI compliance, and notify users of contract expiration dates.
  • The BRM will also ensure that only those with signing authority are signing contracts/agreements on behalf of UML.
  • Please email controller@uml.edu for guidance and access to the BRM.

• Travel Policies and Standards: The University Travel Policy has an explanation guide available here.
  • The Bank Card Standards was updated on June 1, 2024 and reflects the Concur changes.
  • The finalized Business Travel and Expense Policy with 2023-2024 updates is now available, along with a training video.
  • Stay up-to-date by reviewing and sharing the UMass Travel and Expense Newsletter with colleagues.

Stay Tuned

• Hospitality and the Controller’s Office will soon release an announcement regarding the Minors on Campus Guidelines for UML.
  

For any questions, kindly contact the Controller’s Office at controller@uml.edu.