BOSTON — University of Massachusetts President Robert Caret (kuh-RET') is launching a statewide bus tour to highlight the impact and commitment of the five-campus public school system to the state.

Caret on Tuesday will launch the tour that will feature stops at businesses and technology facilities, meeting with mayors as well as discussions with community leaders and business partners.

A spokeswoman says the bus tour will enable UMass leaders to meet alumni working at local companies. The tour will also enable Caret to highlight various projects UMass has underway with the private sector and allow him to engage UMass students participating in public-private partnerships developed by the school.

UMass Board of Trustees Chairman Henry Thomas III will accompany Caret. The five UMass chancellors will also participate.

UMass educates 72,000 students and awards more than 15,000 degrees annually.