Motley became chancellor of the UMass Boston on July 1, 2007, following more than 30 years of experience in higher education administration. As chancellor, he oversaw a strategic planning initiative to enhance the university's academic offerings and research enterprise, grow enrollment to meet the increasing demand for a well-educated workforce, and build the university as a resource of knowledge and public service. As the first African American chancellor of UMass Boston, which is considered the most diverse public university in New England, Motley highlighted inclusion among its key missions. Motley also oversaw its 25-year master plan to enhance the campus and improve its layout on Columbia Point. The project includes the construction of a new Integrated Sciences Complex, University Hall, and housing for students, as well as the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, which the late senator requested to be located on the UMass Boston campus next to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
