"Each colleague across the University has played a role in the creation and continued evolution of UPST. As we navigate the challenges facing higher education, I am confident that by working together, we will continue to drive innovation and deliver value to our students, faculty, staff, and communities." — Lisa Calise, Senior Vice President for Administration & Finance and Treasurer for the University of Massachusetts
Dear UMass Colleagues,
We can universally agree that recognition feels nice. When someone notices what you do, how hard you work, the impact you make, or the results of the effort you put in every day, it provides comradery and validation.
Just a couple of weeks ago, the National Association of System Heads (NASH), which represents the chief executives of public higher education systems in the United States, honored UMass with the Scaling for Change Award. This award recognizes the successful creation and implementation of the Unified Procurement Service Team at the University of Massachusetts.
The "Scaling for Change" award highlights the significant impact and impressive results achieved by adopting a unified approach to procurement and accounts payable within a large, complex organization. By establishing a unified procurement team, UMass achieved $145.7 million in cost savings, along with process efficiency gains ranging from 10% to 37% in areas such as supplier onboarding, contracts, and invoice processing. These improvements included technology-driven efficiencies through AI-driven automation and enhanced data transparency tools.
LeeAnn Pasquini, AVP President's Office Management & Fiscal Affairs, and I were honored to accept the award on behalf of all of UMass, recognizing how hard everyone worked to make UPST successful. Each colleague within the University impacted the creation and the continued evolution of UPST. As we observe the headwinds facing higher education right now, I have confidence that we’ll continue to grow and remain strong by working together.
I know this because UPST is a true model for Higher Education, and together, we will continue to deliver value to our students, faculty, staff, and local communities every day.
With appreciation,
Michael “Mike” Durkin, CPO
About Michael Durkin: Michael is the current Chief Procurement Officer of the University of Massachusetts. He was pivotal as Director of Strategic Procurement at UPST, driving cost benefits, innovation, and efficiency across UMass campuses. His extensive experience in higher education procurement, including his time as Chief Procurement Officer for the University System of New Hampshire, makes him uniquely qualified to lead UPST. Michael’s leadership has been integral to UPST’s success, and we are excited to see his vision and expertise continue to guide our team in this new capacity.