Kimberly Macdonald

Office of Alumnae Relations and Development

Director of Alumnae Engagement

What brought you to Smith?
I joined Smith in March 2022 after relocating to Northampton from San Francisco. I immediately knew I wanted to be part of Smith because I was drawn to its mission and values. My first role here was as assistant director for reunions, and I was excited about being part of such an incredible campus event.

What do you do here?
I lead strategy and programs that help Smithies stay connected to each other and to the college. My work and the work of my team focuses on supporting volunteers, planning and implementing Reunion, and developing engagement opportunities that reinforce the alum network.

Please share something you are proud of about your work at the college. 
I am proud to see the ways my work helps strengthen an alum's connection to Smith. Whether it’s seeing Smithies walk in the Alumnae Parade at Reunion, shaping programs, or supporting our dedicated volunteers, it’s so meaningful to see those connections and build relationships with our amazing alums.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?
Neilson Library—what a stunning work of architecture!

How has your background prepared you for your current job at Smith?
I have a background in higher education, nonprofits, and the arts, which has given me a strong foundation for my work at Smith. Prior to joining the college, I worked in higher ed administration for an art school, where I oversaw academic administration, developed external partnerships, and managed events both large and small.

When you’re not working or traveling for Smith, what are you most likely to be doing?
Sitting on my porch or going for a walk and enjoying beautiful Northampton.

What else are you enjoying these days?
Outside of my work with Smith, I am an artist and photographer. I shoot on 35mm film with a Pentax K1000, the same camera my mother used when I was a child. As a new parent, I’ve been especially enjoying time with my family and capturing my daughter’s first year of life through the same lens my mother once used to document mine.

What’s your favorite dish? 
My favorite dish is my Oma’s (grandmother’s) Gugelhupf, an Austrian cake with lemon zest baked in a Bundt pan and topped with powdered sugar.

Favorite Smith tradition?
Ivy Day and the Alumnae Parade