02/05/2026
By Andrew Harris

The UMass Lowell College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (FAHSS) invites nominations (including self-nominations) for the 2026- 2028 Nancy Donahue Endowed Professorship in the Arts and Humanities. Eligibility is open to all tenured faculty members within the college, particularly those within the departments of Art & Design, English, History, Philosophy and World Languages and Cultures.

Since its inception, the Nancy Donahue Professorship has been a pivotal force in initiating various faculty-led initiatives that have forged significant connections between the University and the cultural vibrancy of the City of Lowell. While initially targeted to faculty in the areas of music, theater, and arts, its scope has organically extended to encompass impactful cultural projects by other faculty within humanities-based disciplines.

The two-year appointment includes access to a fund of up to $60,000 to support activities consistent with the intent of the fund. Potential projects may include (but are not limited to) the creation of artistic works, the development and/or digitization of historical and cultural archives, collaborative cultural events on campus and/or in the community, community art initiatives, and other projects tied to Lowell's cultural life. Projects that include opportunities for student experiential learning and enhancing partnerships with community-based institutions are particularly encouraged.

Interested candidates should submit a 3-4 page proposal that includes the following elements:

  • An overview of the proposed activities that will be undertaken during the two-year professorship;
  • An implementation timeline and budget plan for utilizing the allocated funds;
  • A description of the anticipated impacts of the proposed activities, including those connected to student learning, generation of scholarship and/or creative works, community engagement, and other relevant areas of impact;
  • A summary description of the faculty member’s background and qualifications relevant to carrying out the proposed work.

Along with their proposals, candidates should submit their current CV, along with any additional documentation related to the project that they would like considered.

Proposals should be sent via email to Andrew_Harris@uml.edu, Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Programs. The deadline for proposal submission is Friday, Feb. 27 – earlier submissions are strongly encouraged.

Proposals will be reviewed by the Dean of the College and submitted to the Provost and Chancellor for final determination. We anticipate that the appointment will begin in June of 2026 once the recommended candidate is approved by the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees.