On December 3rd, colleagues from across the University of Massachusetts gathered to honor the outstanding career of Carol Dugard, who retired after 26 years of dedicated service. The celebration was a testament to Carol’s lasting impact on the institution, bringing together representatives from the President’s Office, Administration & Finance, and each campus to share their reflections and well wishes.
The program began with comments on behalf of Administration & Finance, delivered by Sue Cerrato, Prin Applications Specialist, Cheryl Millett, HR Coordinator and John Roy, Director of Recruitment and Compensation. Their remarks spoke to Carol’s exemplary professionalism and significant contributions to the university’s operations. Representing the President’s Office at Large, Denise Barton, Chief Deputy General Counsel; David McDermott, Vice President of External Affairs; and Brad Smith, Chief Information Security Officer shared heartfelt stories highlighting Carol’s warmth and unwavering commitment to UMass.
The celebration continued with tributes from campus representatives: Tim Cendrowski, Senior Director of HR Operations – Amherst; Ebru Korbek-Erdogmus, Assistant VC for HR - Boston; Vanessa Long, Executive Director People Operations – Chan Medical; Kimberly Pennock, Associate Vice Chancellor for HR – Dartmouth and William Storella, Senior Director Labor Relations and Compliance – Lowell. Each speaker reflected on the ways Carol’s leadership and support have shaped their work and the university community.
Throughout the event, speakers emphasized Carol’s professionalism, warmth, and unwavering commitment to supporting UMass. The heartfelt tributes underscored the positive influence Carol has had on colleagues and the university as a whole legacy that will be felt long after her retirement.
Please join us in wishing Carol Dugard all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter. Her presence will be greatly missed, but her impact will continue to inspire everyone who had the pleasure of working with her.
Below are photos from the celebration
