The UMPO Administration and Finance (A&F) Executive and Senior Leadership team convened at UMass Amherst for a day focused on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and networking, thanks to the outstanding organizational efforts of Michelle Goncalves, Chief of Staff for Chancellor Javier Reyes.
The event began with a warm welcome from Amherst Vice Chancellor Andy Mangels, setting the stage for a series of insightful presentations by key administrative leaders. These presentations, focusing on Project BEST and Admissions Sharing, showcased recent innovations and important insights for the team. Executive and senior A&F team members, LeeAnn Pasquini, Joe Skrzek, Eric Gregoire, Amy Thompson, Sean Curry, Lynn McKenna, and Jim Roche (both from the Amherst campus), led these discussions.
Following these updates, Mike Durkin and Ken Toong, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Auxiliary Enterprises at UMass Amherst, presented “Amherst’s Dining Journey,” providing an informative overview of the evolution of campus dining services. Christine Packard then gave a Risk Registry Status Report, highlighting ongoing efforts in risk management. The morning concluded with dedicated team time, offering participants the opportunity to collaborate, ask questions, and strengthen their connections.
Administration & Finance Executive & Senior Leadership Team
The group enjoyed a private dining experience at Hampshire Dining, made even more special by the presence of Chancellor Reyes, Vice Chancellor Andy Mangels, HR Vice Chancellor Sheri Neshiem, and HR Associate Vice Chancellor Kevin Kerwood. During the meal, Chancellor Reyes engaged the team in an insightful question-and-answer session, allowing for open and meaningful interaction with campus leadership.
To wrap up the event, the group embarked on a walking tour of the campus. The tour showcased the vibrant spaces and rich stories that make UMass Amherst’s community unique.
Overall, the event blended informative presentations, meaningful conversations, and an immersive experience of UMass Amherst’s dynamic campus. It was a memorable day that fostered both professional growth and strengthened community ties.