This letter is written in support of Professor Keith Jones remaining on the faculty at the University of Massachusetts Boston.

I met Professor Jones in the spring of 2017 while deciding whether to transfer to UMass Boston to complete my undergraduate studies. At the time, I was enrolled in an ESL program and uncertain about my academic future. As a recent adult immigrant of Afro-Dominican descent, navigating a new educational system was challenging. Despite having excelled academically in my home country and at a leading university in Spain, I still questioned whether I truly belonged at a university in Boston.

Taking Professor Jones’ class changed that for me. Through his teaching on African American history, I discovered both the power of history and my own passion for education. More importantly, his mentorship gave me the confidence to believe that I could succeed as a transfer student.

After that semester, I enrolled at UMass Boston and went on to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Art with high honors. I later completed a Master’s degree in Education at the same institution. Today, I am proud to serve as an elementary school teacher in the Boston Public Schools, working with newcomer students who are navigating language, culture, and opportunity much like I once did.

Professor Jones’ mentorship extended far beyond the classroom. He remained in contact with many of his students, offering encouragement and guidance throughout our journeys. His dedication to students and his impact on our lives make him an invaluable member of the UMass community. I am forever grateful for Professor Jones’ mentorship, leadership and commitment to his students and greater community.

For these reasons, I strongly urge the university to reinstate him as a faculty member.