FOIA Request to Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts regarding recent course syllabi on August 6, 2025.
A request for information was sent to the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) by West Massachusetts News. The request seeks access to a complete list of course syllabi for all undergraduate and graduate courses offered during the Spring 2025 academic semester. This includes syllabi from all departments, schools, and colleges at MCLA, regardless of whether the courses were conducted in-person, online, or through hybrid formats.
The requested information also includes relevant metadata such as course titles and numbers, instructor names, department or academic unit affiliations, and the delivery format of each course. The requester emphasized the importance of accessing these public records to ensure transparency and accountability within public institutions.
As part of their request, West Massachusetts News has asked for a fee waiver based on their role as a media organization dedicated to disseminating information to the public. They have highlighted their affiliation with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that supports media companies in investigating governmental agencies using Freedom of Information laws.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
