On the Impact of UMass on the Creative Economy

Alumni by-in-large attributed UMass a huge role in contributing to the creative economy of the area in part due to its sheer size.  Other roles cited included: major employer of creative professionals, educator of future creative professionals and supporters, and in exposing the community to world famous artists brought in for programs open to the community.

“I think they play a huge role, I think they bring in so many opportunities with the different programs that they offer as well as the different degrees that they offer and the students they have come in to the institution, so I think their role is really paramount.” Heather Haskell, Director of Springfield Museums, Masters in Art History alumna

“I think that whenever you’re generating people in the creative fields there becomes an appreciation for them in the area. . . If you’re training people in an area, a certain percentage of them will try to remain here, you kind of build that into the community.” –Lorin Starr, Interior Design Company Principle and Executive Director of WMAIA, MS in Interior Design alumna

“I think it’s a huge stimulus. I mean there are direct programs that have to do with music and visual arts and literature especially that I’m aware of that are sponsored and held at the campus of the University.  There are other programs that are sponsored by the University that are held off campus.  We have readings in this book shop for example that are sponsored by the University: we have readings of faculty and graduate students and undergraduate students at this bookstore. . .” –Mark Wootan, Owner of Amherst Books