Since Election Day, students have been asking questions about what the future might look like under a second Donald Trump presidency. In this Democracy in Action feature, Smith educators Carrie Baker, Howard Gold, Naila Moreira, and Loretta Ross (pictured above, from left) discuss their recent interactions with Smithies and what they’re emphasizing in their classrooms post-election.

Tourmaline was the keynote speaker at yesterday’s Cromwell Day. Ahead of the annual event, the artist spoke about forms of activism and imagining a better future. “This is a powerful moment to get clarity about what we want and [realize] it’s possible,” she says.

An honoree on Outsports’ 2024 Power 100 list, Cothren works in the NHL’s front office and is regarded as one of the most-beloved figures in the LGBTQIA+ sports movement. “She is a needed voice in professional sports,” says coach Anthony Nicodemo, one of Cothren’s mentors.

A company that turns organic waste into renewable energy, Vanguard applauded Smith for its dedication to recycling surplus food and raising awareness about food waste. “Smith’s commitment to these goals makes me proud to be part of this community,” says Katie Lavrov ’27.

An actor with a range of credits, including Family Guy and DuckTales, Olagundoye now appears in the live-action series Frasier (a continuation of the older NBC sitcom). In an interview with Assignment X, she shares what it’s like to be part of the new Kelsey Grammer–led cast.

After falling short of the NCAA Division III championship last year, the Pioneers are determined to capture the title in 2025. Head coach Lynn Hersey explains that by coming off back-to-back championship runs, the team has a unique understanding of what it takes to get there again.

Marking the 20th Julia Child Day at Smith, Kate Sonders Solomon ’00 will lead a webinar next Thursday at 6 p.m. EST on how to make the late chef’s famous cornbread stuffing and cranberry relish. Registration is now open and an ingredient list will be shared ahead of time.

Involved in lacrosse, tennis, and field hockey at the Baldwin School, McElroy was one of five individuals inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024. According to a statement, this honor is reserved for alum athletes or athletic professionals who exhibit exemplary character and reputation.

As a 2024 recipient of the Henry Dreyfus award, Buck will receive an unrestricted research grant of $75,000. Her research concentrates on new strategies for preparing chemically fueled hydrogel actuators: smart materials that respond to external stimuli, according to the Royal Society of Chemistry.

In this new role, Almenoff brings more than 25 years of drug development and leadership experience to the table, according to a statement. Sandesh Seth, chairman and CEO of Actinium Pharmaceuticals, says, “Her experience will be invaluable, and we are delighted to add her to the board.”

During this inaugural Toshizo Watanabe fellowship, Masunaga will have a chance to spend two weeks engaging in ongoing virtual and in-person gatherings related to fostering global democracy, stability, and prosperity. Masunaga also leads sustainability initiatives at the ORIX Corporation.

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