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Although we are a secular institution, the College values students who sincerely claim their religious and spiritual identities and seek to observe and practice their religious and spiritual traditions during your time with us. We acknowledge and embrace religious identity as part of our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. It is our goal to not only comply with the religious accommodation statute,, but to assure that our students who uphold a sincerely held religious and/or spiritual belief feel a sense of belonging within our community.

Accommodation expectations

Faculty

It is highly encouraged that faculty add a note to their syllabi or job expectations indicating affirmation of this religious accommodation expectation, so that students feel comfortable making their needs known.

Faculty should approve requests via

Massachusetts law Title XXI, Chapter 151C Section 2B, states that while requesting an accommodation: “shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school” it is imperative that “no adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to any student because of his [sic] availing himself [sic] of the provisions of this section.” Generally, if a student requests an accommodation, it should be honored in good faith. If there are questions regarding the religious observance or request, please contact the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life and ask to confer with a College Chaplain or religious advisor.

Students

Students requesting a religious accommodation should use the (requires my.mtholyoke login) to request an accommodation preferably before the last day to add a course. 

Religious observance and holiday calendar

To facilitate the planning of your semester assignments, work, and other obligations, the College has created a to note key religious observances that are likely to generate a request for an accommodation. This calendar is not exhaustive. How an individual may practice their faith or spiritual tradition may differ from region to region and vary within their own faith and spiritual tradition. This is calendar is simply a basic guide.