Dean to CVPA Students on August 14

August 14, 2023

Dear CVPA Students,

I’m writing to let you know that, with the unexpected end of state funding to support UMass Dartmouth’s use of the Star Store, the university will be transitioning our CVPA programs, classrooms, and studios to alternative space before the beginning of the Fall 2023 semester.

I know how much the Star Store has meant to our CVPA community and to everyone at UMass Dartmouth, and want you to know that the university explored every potential option to remain in the building this coming academic year and beyond.

The 116 students who are registered for classroom activities and studios that were scheduled to be taught in the Star Store this fall will receive a communication from the Dean’s Office in the coming days designating the new locations for these activities.  The Director of Graduate Studies will be reaching out to graduate students with workspaces, materials and artworks in the building to share plans to move those items.  

Please know that the university leadership and I are committed to ensuring the continuing success and vibrancy of the College of Visual and Performing Arts for generations to come. We will also ensure that all our CVPA courses and studios are taught in appropriate facilities this coming year. We look forward to welcoming you back to campus soon, and to creating extraordinary art together. 

With best regards,

Lawrence Jenkens

Dean, College of Visual & Performing Arts