Skip to main content

‘Continue Along the Bright Path’ of Making a Difference

At Smith College’s 148th Commencement, speakers shared messages of unity and hope.

Read the Full Story

Reasons to Celebrate Smith

Women’s basketball was born here.

Less than two years after the invention of basketball, in 1891, Smith’s director of physical education, Senda Berenson, adapted the game for women. The first women’s basketball game was played in the Alumnae Gym in 1893, with the sophomores beating the first-years 5–4. Berenson was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985 and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999.

Smithies playing basketball in 1948.

Smith, in the Moment

Stay current with all things Smith. Learn about upcoming events and peruse the news on Smith Today.

Research & Inquiry

Building a Better Moth Trap

Smith College Prof. Mariana Abarca leads a moth-monitoring project to foster global insect research.

  • Research & Inquiry
  • May 29, 2026
Professor Mariana Abarca poses near her moth monitoring device in a woodsy spot at MacLeish Field Station

A Culture of Curiosity

Madelyn Halperin ’26

Government and Middle East Studies double major

What does being a Smithie mean to you? 
“Being a Smithie means that I am part of a long history of students who are activists, leaders, forward-thinkers, and change makers. It’s an honor to participate in the unique traditions that Smithies before me have taken part in.”

Daniela Pilier ’26

Quantitative Economics major; Applied Statistics minor; Global Finance concentrator

Favorite thing about Smith?
“A highlight of my Smith experience has been the opportunity to travel through short-term and study abroad programs. Thanks to these opportunities, I’ve been able to visit Greece, Barbados, France, Brazil, and Switzerland. These experiences have broadened my worldview and deepened my appreciation for global perspectives and connections.”

Eleanor Wu ’26

Linguistics major; Translation Studies concentrator

What has financial aid meant to you?
“It means my sky is limitless. Financial aid has opened the door for both me and my family. My family can continue to pursue their own endeavors and business, and I can focus solely on my career and education.”

Michelle Lawson ’26

Computer Science major

What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of?
“Building an online community for ‘computer science girlies.’ This project started during my summer undergraduate research fellowship (SURF) in 2023. Inspired by my research and Smith colleagues, I began sharing videos on TikTok to explain computer science concepts. We’ve grown to 60,000 followers on TikTok, 60,000 on Instagram, and 10,000 members in our Discord community.”