New Endowments Enhance Isenberg Faculty Impact

The Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst celebrates its distinguished—and expanding—roster of endowed and titled faculty members, whose contributions strengthen the institution’s academic excellence, research capabilities, and community impact.

“I’m proud to share that we have more than tripled the number of endowed and titled faculty positions at Isenberg over the past decade,” said Dean Anne P. Massey, Thomas O’Brien Endowed Chair. “Faculty who hold these positions are thought leaders and catalysts for impact. Their research not only elevates the academic profile of Isenberg and UMass Amherst, but it also addresses pressing business challenges in industry and society.”

With the support of Isenberg alumni and friends, the number of endowed and titled positions has grown to 28 in 2025, up from just nine a decade ago. The reason for the increase, according to Massey, is simple: Donors are inspired by the innovation and growth Isenberg has experienced in recent years.

“We are profoundly grateful to our generous donors, whose commitment to faculty excellence has helped Isenberg attract and retain world-class researchers and educators,” she said. “Endowed and titled positions not only recognize the accomplishments of our distinguished scholars, but they also ensure that we can continue to offer transformative learning experiences for our students. These investments strengthen our mission and amplify Isenberg’s impact on the business world.”

Sustaining faculty excellence is a priority for Massey. To attract and retain top faculty who publish in premier journals and garner strong student support, she has been focused on raising funds to establish titled positions. The supplementary funds that come with the titles can go toward research and travel, doctoral students, and more, helping Isenberg hold onto world-class scholars. Since 2020, six faculty members have been named endowed professors. 

While endowed chairs and professorships have long supported the work of more senior faculty, Isenberg has also focused on offering term fellowships to retain junior faculty members who show great promise. Isenberg’s first term fellowship was established in 2022 by John F. Kennedy, a 1976 Isenberg graduate with a master's degree in accounting.  It is currently held by Emily Heaphy, a management professor who studies interpersonal relationships at work. Eight faculty members have received fellowships since 2020.

To view a list of all titled faculty at the Isenberg School of Management, click here. 

Read more about the value of Isenberg’s faculty.