Today is Mountain Day!

Good Morning, Friends!

I’m thrilled to let you know that today is Mountain Day!

The college bells rang out early, signaling to students across campus that the day was theirs to enjoy. Some Smithies will catch up on much-needed sleep. Others may gather a group of friends, pile into a car, and head out on a road trip to Boston or the Berkshires. Some students will stay local and go apple picking in nearby orchards or hike up Mount Tom. But first we gave out doughnuts—lots and lots of doughnuts—and apple cider on Chapin lawn. We also handed out one-of-a-kind Mountain Day 2024 T-shirts that you’ll soon be able to purchase online. I’ve had a terrific start to the day, spending time with the students, staff, and faculty that make up our community.

I know the students love Mountain Day, but it has been so much fun for me to hear from so many of you that alums love it, too! When I announced my first Mountain Day last year, Smithies around the world shared their own memories and reflections on the day. In one moving note, an alum from the class of 1959 recalled how she had arrived at Smith as a somewhat timid student who spent her early days on campus either in class or studying in her room, anxious about her grades. Then suddenly on Mountain Day there were friends knocking on her door, inviting her outside to join them for some fun. A member of the class of 1966 shared that the first thing she did after receiving my announcement last year was call a Smith friend she hadn’t heard from in a while. The two ended up talking for more than two hours—over tea and doughnuts. Another alum told me that Mountain Day was her first experience in self-care.

In that spirit, I hope you’ll take a moment today, if you’re able, to do something special; perhaps do one thing you haven’t had time to do. This is a day for all Smithies to reflect, to rest, to play, and to connect with a tradition that unites us.

Happy Mountain Day!

Sarah

Sarah Willie-LeBreton
President, Smith College