"We are particularly troubled by the effects these difficulties are having on the University, not only because the University is crucial to the continued health of the Commonwealth we share, but because the University contributes critically to the vitality of each of our own institutions," wrote the Presidents in a statement which was released to each campus on March 28.
"Within our consortium, just as each of us finds strength in the strength of the others, so too the trials experienced by one must be felt by all. That is why as presidents of our institutions and as the Directors of the consortium we are working closely with one another to provide whatever help we can."
On April 2, the Faculty passed a resolution by voice vote with seven abstentions that read: "The Faculty at Amherst College stands in support of its colleagues at UMass. We deplore the recently enacted budget cuts, which will have dire effects on this fine educational institution ... and urge the Legislature to reinstate appropriate funding for the University." Several economics professors were concerned that the resolution did not address the budgetary cuts to other state programs such as welfare and Medicaid, but the majority of faculty believed that the limited scope of the motion was appropriate.
President Tom Gerety, as well as Presidents Gregory S. Prince, Jr. of Hampshire, Beverly Tatum of Mount Holyoke and John Connolly of Smith, urged all members of their faculties and staff to help their colleagues at UMass. Some departments at the four colleges are already working together with the faculty at UMass to publicize classes at the four colleges that could satisfy UMass requirements for students and would be likely to admit interchange.
This statement has come after nearly 17 million dollars in budget cuts at UMass.