Since welcoming six faculty members and 14 students in 1875, Smith College has evolved and grown in myriad ways, all while maintaining its status as a leading liberal arts college. As Smith celebrates its 150th this year, President Sarah Willie-LeBreton is committed to continuing the college’s progressive trajectory: “My hope for Smith is that we never stop living up to and even expanding Sophia Smith’s dream that Smith be a ‘perennial blessing’ to the world.” 

Activist-educator Ross’ new book is already being lauded. “Using personal examples, Ross makes a compelling case for why building bridges is the most effective way to solve societal problems,” says WBUR. Join Ross for a book talk and signing in Seelye 201 on Feb. 13 at 4:30 p.m. EST.

Days into 2025, the Greater Los Angeles area was hit with disastrous wildfires. Kevin Rozario, associate professor of American studies, stresses that disasters are “spectacular media magnets,” but that this one may provide opportunities for reflection about class inequality. 

After its 88–38 win over Salve Regina on Saturday, the Pioneers now hold a 17–1 record for the season. Tonight at 7 p.m. EST, Smith will play at home against the Coast Guard Academy. Cheer on the team in person or watch the game online via FloCollege’s paid streaming service.

Spearheaded by Kristine Le ’25 (middle in the image), the initiative brings together Smithies to create programs for learners of all ages. Most recently, Smithies led an after-school program at Southampton Road Elementary School comprising maze challenges, coding guidance, and more.

In its 150-year history, Smith College has helped launch more than 100,000 game changers into the world. For this year’s Rally Day on Feb. 20, show your support with a donation to keep Smith strong for future students. Small gifts, together, make a big difference.

Starting this month, Notes From Paradise will reserve space for stories related to Smith College’s 150th anniversary. This week we explore the history of house pianos. Each of Smith’s 41 houses is responsible for maintaining its own piano, some of which are nearly 100 years old. Jiayan Sun, assistant professor of music (pictured left), and Anna Goudreau, administrative coordinator for the music department, help keep all of the college’s pianos in tip-top shape.

This Valentine’s Day, surprise someone with a musical message from the Smith College Noteables! The group’s diverse repertoire spans various musical genres and eras. Submit a request using this web form, and check out the Noteables’ YouTube channel.

As part of the United Overseas Bank’s annual art competition, Maneckji was recognized for her piece That Blessed Mood, a collage on card paper that focuses on the theme of motherhood and the strength and resilience it demands.

Working in the department of student registration and financial services, Valdes-Fauli now oversees matters related to financial aid, student employment, and student accounts, among others, according to a statement.

During a 3 p.m. EST concert in Springfield, Massachusetts, Gorevic will perform on violin alongside Yoonhee Ko, Delores Thayer, and Beth Welty. Quartetto Mosso is an offshoot of the Springfield Chamber Players, according to BroadwayWorld.

Hillsamer was recently celebrated by Markets Media Group for her work with Scotiabank. As the company’s first U.S. repurchase agreement salesperson, she created a sales growth strategy that allowed Scotiabank to rapidly boost its global business.

Smith College  |  Smith Today  |  Make a Gift  |  Alumnae Association
Smith Quarterly  |  Submit a Class Note

Smith College Notes From Paradise

You are receiving this email because you are affiliated with Smith College.

To unsubscribe from all emails or to update your preferences, visit the link below.

Update subscription preferences
View as webpage | Update your address

{{{Organization.Address}}}
{{Unsubscribe}}