By Meredith Schmidt
Director, Campus Center/Student Union Complex
University of Massachusetts
Amherst Chamber Board Member

Editor's Note: This is one of a series of blog posts by the Chamber's Board of Directors 

There’s  “Something about Amherst”……..

When I was just a kid growing up in the Holyoke area, there was always “Something about Amherst” that attracted me.  Back then it was probably the ride through town, the local shops, enjoying the green grass on the Commons, my first rock concert at UMass, and of course, the cider donuts from Atkins, just to name a few… 

Then I chose to move  here to attend the University.  There was still “Something about Amherst” for me.  It became the daily trips into town to Faces, the Pub, Zanna, $1 pizzas from Bell’s, the nightlife, and of course, the cider donuts from Atkins, just to name a few… 

After I graduated, I moved away for a few  years but that “Something about Amherst”  compelled me to come back.  I found my dream job at the University and have been here now over 30 years.  Now that “Something about Amherst” is more about the wonderful culture, supporting the local businesses, and most importantly belonging to the Amherst Chamber.  It is about meeting all of the local business owners at the many Chamber events ,  serving on the Board, contributing to the Town/Gown relations with the University, and of course, still the cider donuts from Atkins, just to name a few… 

What is your “Something about Amherst”?

Join the Chamber – Get Involved – It’s great fun!