UMass’ ratings affirmation signals strong management and strategic planning

Moody’s, Fitch, and S&P Global, the three major bond ratings agencies, recently reaffirmed UMass’s strong bond ratings, citing robust management practices, comprehensive long-term strategic plans, and solid demand in an increasingly competitive market to attract students.

UMass President Marty Meehan and UMass Board of Trustees Chair Stephen Karam offered the following statements in response to a motion by the UMass Amherst faculty.

BOSTON – Moody’s, S&P Global Ratings, and Fitch Ratings all recently reaffirmed the University of Massachusetts’ strong bond ratings, each citing effective management practices as a factor in affirming the ratings and the university’s “stable” outlook. 

In reports released in late April, the university was rated Aa2 by Moody’s, AA by Fitch Ratings, and AA- by S&P Global, indicating that UMass maintains a strong financial footing and is well-positioned to meet its credit obligations. 

In his annual State of the University message, University of Massachusetts President Marty Meehan today called for a three-fold expansion of enrollment in the university’s early college programs over the next five years.

The UMass Amherst Springfield Center will soon be named for former UMass Trustee and Springfield Urban League President Henry M. Thomas III, a leading advocate for establishing the center in his hometown, and the first person of color to lead the UMass Board of Trustees.