Smith eDigest
The Smith eDigest is sent to all campus e-mail accounts on Tuesday and Thursday each week during the academic year, and on Tuesday during the summer, providing important notices, college news, links to articles of general interest to the community, deadline notifications, and other college information. Submissions are due by 5 p.m. the day before publication date. Information on submitting items is available at: https://www.smith.edu/news-stories/edigest-form/.
01/21/2025 Digest
Faculty/Staff Notices
Round Two of the Staff Spotlight Award Nominations Is Open
Through March 22, 7 p.m.
Round Two of the Staff Spotlight Award nominations is now open and will run through Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 7 PM. The criteria for a nomination include those individuals who have contributed significantly to the working environment at Smith College, including exceptional customer service, solving a problem resulting in a positive impact for others, promoting inclusivity and collaboration. Nominations must highlight accomplishments that occurred between April 1, 2024 – March 15, 2025. For more information: http://smith.edu/about-smith/hr/staff-recognition
2024 W-2s Now Available
Current Smith Employees are automatically opted in to receive an electronic W-2 in Workday. If you elected to receive a paper W-2, it will be mailed to your home mailing address. International employees on a college-sponsored visa (including international students) that received a W-2 should wait to file any taxes until you receive further communication from the International Students and Scholars Office in February 2024. They will provide further information on potential tax filing requirements. If you have any questions about your W-2, please contact payroll@smith.edu.
Sign Up or Drop In: Easy Restorative Yoga for Staff & Faculty Facilitated by Arden Sundari Pierce
January 29-March 5, 12:15-1:05 p.m., Campus Center 203
In partnership with Human Resources, Certified Yoga Therapist and Smith Yoga Educator Arden Sundari Pierce will lead Restorative Yoga for faculty and staff on Wednesdays from 12:15 to 1:05 pm. This program will be held from January 29 to March 5 in Campus Center Room 203. Arden will lead participants in easy stretch and strength exercises that help reduce stress and fatigue and increase focus and calm. No clothing change is needed and most exercises will be practiced using a chair and can be modified. Email Yoga@rcn.com to sign up, or just drop in!
Pick Up a Jandon Center Makers Kit Today!
Take a break and get creative with the Jandon Center Maker Kits! This is open to all Smith College, and staff/faculty. From friendship bracelet making to journal decorating, these kits are perfect for relaxing and recharging. The kits can be picked up at the Jandon Center, and be checked out for 2 weeks. It can be done in your dorm, office, The Jandon Center, or anywhere else. Side Note: The reusable bags and other borrowed materials should be returned to create more kits for other people to enjoy. Thank you.
Common Goods Coat Drive
Through Friday, Jan. 31, Campus Center 106
The Common Goods Resource Center is in desperate need of winter coats! Looking for all sizes, as long as they are clean and can button or zip. Pease drop off in the Campus Center 106 Office anytime between now and January 31st.
First Tuesdays Return With Coffee, Donuts and More!
Tuesday, Feb. 4, 8:30 a.m., Campus Center Main Level Table
Bring a friend, meet some new ones, and catch up on what's happening around campus at First Tuesdays, a monthly gathering aimed at providing a welcoming space where all of us -- students, staff and faculty -- can come together over refreshments. Gluten free, dairy free, and vegan options will be available.
Request Spatial Analysis Lab Support for Spring Courses and Research
Have a question or idea regarding maps or spatial data? Contact the Spatial Analysis Lab (SAL) for support and collaboration on spring courses and research. The SAL manages two computer classrooms/labs and is available for data collection and analysis, co-developing lessons, mapmaking, place-based storytelling, and more. Please fill out this form (https://forms.gle/ZXpMg2rX5dstvj2g8) to start a conversation. We will review and respond to requests on a rolling basis. Email sal@smith.edu with any questions.
Spring 2025 Faculty Technology Workshops
Through January 24
Get ready for Spring 2025! Learning, Research & Technology is offering a series of faculty workshops from January 14-24, and sessions will be offered both in-person and online. Workshop topics include setting up your course in Moodle, accessibility & universal design, AI tools and policies, classroom technology orientation drop-in sessions, one-on-one pedagogical consultations, and more. To sign up, visit the following link: https://go.oncehub.com/facultyworkshops
Register Now: Write-on-Sites
Jan. 24, Feb. 28, March 28, April 1, 1-4:30 p.m., Mary Maples Dunn Conference Room, Pierce
Have writing to get done but finding it hard to get started? Find that your writing is easier when done with good colleagues? Earmark your calendar, grab your laptop, and come to this write-on-site opportunity! These sessions, which are being held on January 24, February 28, March 28 and April 11, will support you in making progress, increasing productivity, and building a community of scholars writing together. Refreshments will be provided. Feel welcome to join anytime. Part of the Spring 2025 Faculty Development Series (https://www.smith.edu/academics/provostdean-faculty/faculty-development). Register in advance (https://forms.gle/8HLCKkZegAKd947Q8)
Sherrerd Luncheon: Critical Fishbowl Dialogues--A Process for Dynamic Conversations About Our Present Social/Historical/Political Moment
Friday, Jan. 31, Noon, Neilson Library 102
The Smith Roundtable Group will offer this participatory learning experience for discussion, sharing, and processing a range of thoughts, ideas, and reactions to our current times at this first Sherrerd Teaching Arts Luncheon of the spring semester. Questions such as “What does this moment call us to do in our classroom? How can we best facilitate learning and support our students? How can we support each other?” will be addressed and a pedagogical method for holding complex discussions through participation in critical dialog will be demonstrated. Lunch at noon; presentation at 12:20 pm. RSVP: https://forms.gle/u1wdc3Z44QUWfBaw6.
Honor Board and Conduct Board Feedback
Monday, Feb. 3, 12:15 p.m., Campus Center Main Level Table
Would you like to give feedback about the student Honor Board or Conduct Board processes? Join Dean Keller (Dean of the College), Dean Ohotnicky (Dean of Students), Tina Wildhagen (faculty member) for our open hours.
Register Now: Time for Loving Resistance
Wednesday, Feb. 12, 12:15 p.m., Conway Center, 103 Neilson
Most of us got to where we are because of our discipline combined with an intense work ethic to avoid fear and failure. But what if what got us here is different from what will help us sustainably create what’s next for us, individually and collectively? In this workshop we will take a new approach to working with handling fear and failure, and managing how we relate to ourselves for shifting toward time abundance. Facilitated by Benita Jackson, Professor of Psychology and Faculty Wellness Fellow. Part of the Spring 2025 Faculty Development Series (https://www.smith.edu/academics/provostdean-faculty/faculty-development). Register in advance (https://forms.gle/8HLCKkZegAKd947Q8)
Student Notices
Host an Admitted Smithie
The admitted Class of 2029 will be coming to campus this April to see if Smith is the right place for them. We're seeking Smithies who can host overnight on Friday, April 18, or Thursday, April 24. This is a great chance to meet people who might be your future classmates & housemates! Take them to see a dance performance, the gardens, your house living room or your go-to coffeeshop. Or just meet them, chat, and give them a cozy space to sleep on your floor for the night — the choice is yours. https://apply.smith.edu/register/admithosting25
Apply Now! Reunion Student Program 2025!
Current Smith students play a crucial role in the success of commencement and reunions, making these events fun and an essential source of connection. The Office of Alumnae Relations hires 165-200 students annually for around 6,000 job shifts in May, including leadership and programming roles. Students working for RSP can depart campus after 5 pm on Sunday, May 25th. Meals and housing provided. This application is intended for students able to work BOTH weeks of reunion: May 15th - May 18th and May 22rd - 25th. Follow this link to learn more and apply: https://forms.gle/7VCkSFpFoDKbGKEa9
Pick Up a Jandon Center Makers Kit Today! , Jandon Center, Wright
Take a break and get creative with the Jandon Center Maker Kits! This is open to all Smith College, and staff/faculty. From friendship bracelet making to journal decorating, these kits are perfect for relaxing and recharging. The kits can be checked out for 2 weeks and can be done in your dorm, office, The Jandon Center, or anywhere else. Side Note: The reusable bags and other borrowed materials should be returned to create more kits for other people to enjoy. Thank you.
Schacht Center Closed
Friday, Jan. 24, Schacht Center for Health, Schacht
The Schacht Center is closed on January 24 for staff training. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, please call 413-585-5555. Here are a list of available community resources: https://www.smith.edu/your-campus/health-wellness/break
Submit a Zine or Op-Ed to the Amplify Competition!
Deadline: January 22
Looking for an opportunity to raise your voice for positive change? Or did you write an op-ed or make a zine in an academic course that you'd like to put out into the world? Participate in the Wurtele Center for Leadership's Amplify Competition by submitting an op-ed or zine and have a chance to win $500! SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Wednesday, Jan. 22. For more information and submission links: https://www.smith.edu/academics/integrative-learning/wurtele-center-leadership/amplify-program/amplify-competition
First Tuesdays Return With Coffee, Donuts and More!
Tuesday, Feb. 4, 8:30 a.m., Campus Center Main Level Table
Bring a friend, meet some new ones, and catch up on what's happening around campus at First Tuesdays, a monthly gathering aimed at providing a welcoming space where all of us -- students, staff and faculty -- can come together over refreshments. Gluten free, dairy free, and vegan options will be available.
eDigest on Once-Weekly Schedule Through Interterm
Through Interterm, eDigest is on a once-weekly publication schedule. We will resume the twice-weekly, Tuesday/Thursday, schedule on January 28.
2024 W-2s Now Available
Current Smith Employees are automatically opted in to receive an electronic W-2 in Workday. If you elected to receive a paper W-2, it will be mailed to your home mailing address. International employees on a college-sponsored visa (including international students) that received a W-2 should wait to file any taxes until you receive further communication from the International Students and Scholars Office in February 2024. They will provide further information on potential tax filing requirements. If you have any questions about your W-2, please contact payroll@smith.edu.
Add Name Pronunciation to Your Workday Profile
We encourage Smith students to complete the Name Pronunciation task in Workday. This allows an audio recording and phonetic spelling of your name to be added to your Workday profile, which is viewable by everyone in the Smith community, including your professors and student employment managers. Correctly pronouncing one another’s names affirms identity and builds community. ITS will be in the Campus Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 27 and Tuesday, January 28 to answer any questions. For more information, see the help article Add/Change/View Name Pronunciation: https://www.smith.edu/workday-name-pronounce
Smith in the World Conference: Arts, Media & Communications Panel
Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4:30 p.m., Virtual Event
The Smith in the World conference is held annually to celebrate students’ off-campus experiential learning, including internships, community service and research. In a series of panels, students reflect on how their experiences have impacted and enriched their academic and professional paths. Arts, Media & Communications panel: Hear from students who will share their experiences in documentary filmmaking, language immersion in Italy, studio art in NYC and independent publishing in feminist poetry. For more information, and to register for Zoom link, please visit: http://www.smith.edu/news-events/events/smith-in-the-world
College Year in Athens General Info Session
Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4 p.m., Virtual
Join the virtual information session for College Year in Athens programs. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYoce-vrjsiHNYO2-01Mtv29fWFaQb5jk5b#/registration
Smith in the World Conference: Health Professions panel
Thursday, Jan. 23, 4:30 p.m., Virtual Event
The Smith in the World conference is held annually to celebrate students’ off-campus experiential learning, including internships, community service and research. In a series of panels, students reflect on how their experiences have impacted and enriched their academic and professional paths. Health Professions panel: Students will share their experiences in: Public Health research on pregnant/postpartum persons living with HIV and Harm Reduction in Baltimore MD; Research in Clinical Affective Neuroscience and Development Lab at Yale; Pediatric Anesthesia at Boston Children's Hospital; Immunology Research on Systemic Sclerosis at Dartmouth For more information, and to register for Zoom link, please visit: http://www.smith.edu/news-events/events/smith-in-the-world
Economics Department Study Abroad Info Session
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 4 p.m., Campus Center 103/4
Do you want to study abroad? Come to the Economics Department Information Session where Professor Mahdavi will be talking about the program opportunities for all Economics Majors/Minors/Quantitative.
It's not too late to get your flu shot at the Schacht Center!
Thursday, Jan. 30, 9:10 a.m.- 1 p.m., Schacht Center for Health, Schacht
Influenza case rates are at a high level. It's not too late to get your flu shot at the Schacht Center! The Schacht Center for Health and Wellness is hosting flu clinics on Thursday, January 30 and Wednesday, February 5 from 9:10-1. Sign up here: https://www.timecenter.com/smithcollegehealth/ If these times don't work for you, you can schedule an appointment through the portal or call 413-585-2800. Questions? Email healthservices@smith.edu.
‘Hauntings’ Kahn Project Information Session for Students
Thursday, Jan. 30, 12:15 p.m., Kahn Institute, 21 Henshaw Ave
Would you like to pursue your own research on “Hauntings” with scholars across campus? The Kahn Institute Project will meet once a week on Wednesdays from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the 2025-26 academic year. Come to this information session to hear from organizers Alex Callender, Art, and Jennifer DeClue, Study of Women, Gender, & Sexuality. Available in person with lunch or virtually at https://bit.ly/Hauntings-Info-Session-Virtual. Learn about student fellow stipends and how to apply. Applications are due Monday, Feb. 17.
Justice Journey Kickoff Event
Friday, Jan. 31, 4:30 p.m., Conway Center, 103 Neilson
Learn about the 2025 Smith Co-Innovate for Change: Justice Challenge, where students form interdisciplinary teams to address systemic injustices through bold, sustainable solutions. At this kickoff event, brainstorm innovative ideas, learn about the challenge structure, and gain insights on building your dream team. To submit an Intent to Participate, visit https://forms.gle/YxMAUbRs1yHGeYB66. The deadline is February 14.
Hillyer Art Library Carrel Lottery
Monday, Feb. 3
Need a dedicated study spot in the library? Hillyer Art Library is holding its annual study carrel lottery! Enter with a buddy for the chance to share your own study carrel, which you can decorate, personalize, and use to store books and other items for the entire semester. Lottery prioritization will go: 1) thesis students 2) non-thesis seniors 3) all other students. Enter by February 3rd at https://bit.ly/carrelsignup. Winners will be announced shortly thereafter. Learn more at https://bit.ly/carrelpolicy.
Honor Board and Conduct Board Feedback
Monday, Feb. 3, 12:15 p.m., Campus Center Main Level Table
Would you like to give feedback about the student Honor Board or Conduct Board processes? Join Dean Keller (Dean of the College), Dean Ohotnicky (Dean of Students), Tina Wildhagen (faculty member) for our open hours.
Technology News
Add Name Pronunciation to Your Workday Profile
Smith community members can now add audio recording and phonetic spelling of their name to their Workday profile, which is searchable and viewable by everyone at Smith. Correctly pronouncing one another’s names affirms identity and builds community; therefore, we encourage all Smith students, staff, and faculty to record and share their name pronunciations. ITS will be in the Campus Center from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm on Monday, Jan. 27, and Tuesday, Jan. 28, to answer questions. For more information, see the help article Add/Change/View Name Pronunciation: https://www.smith.edu/workday-name-pronounce
Lectures/Symposia
Artist Lecture: 'Copper and Bone,' Artwork by Sandra Eula Lee
Thursday, Jan. 30, 4:30 p.m., Graham Hall, Hillyer
Join Sandra Eula Lee as she discusses her latest exhibition "Copper and Bone," currently on display in the Oresman Gallery, Hillyer. This series of mixed-media sculptures pairs discarded electronic components with geological minerals - materials extracted to drive technological advancement - creating a dialogue between progress and its environmental toll. Lee, a Korean American artist and Assistant Professor and Head of Visual Arts at Montclair State University, has been featured internationally in solo and group exhibitions throughout the U.S., South Korea, and China. This event is free and open to the public.
Building Educational Innovation With the Learning Sciences
Monday, Feb. 3, 5:15 p.m., Neilson Library 102
Keith Sawyer, Morgan Distinguished Professor of Educational Innovations, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, will present an innovative approach to teaching, learning, and educational technology. Sawyer will draw on the foundational scientific research in the learning sciences to provide practical lessons for how to design classrooms and curriculum, how to prepare and support teachers, and how to build schools with effective structure, leadership, and culture. Sponsored by the Kahn Institute and the Sherrerd Center.
Performing Arts/Films/Fine Arts
Auditions: Duct Tape Productions 'James and the Giant Peach'
Jan. 29-30, 7-10 p.m., Campus Center 003
Auditions for our spring show, James and the Giant Peach, directed by Mia Gage ‘25 & assistant directed by Amanda Odom ‘25, will be held on Wednesday, January 29th and Thursday, January 30th from 7-10 PM in Campus Center Room 003. Callbacks will be held on Saturday, February 1st and Sunday, February 2nd from 12:00-6:00. Performances will be on April 24th, 25th, 26th at 8 PM and April 27th at 2pm in JMG. Please direct questions to dtpproductionteam@smith.edu.
Opening Reception: 'Copper and Bone,' Artwork by Sandra Eula Lee
Thursday, Jan. 30, 5:30 p.m., Oresman Gallery, Hillyer
Celebrate the opening of "Copper and Bone," the latest exhibition by Sandra Eula Lee. This series of mixed-media sculptures reflects intersections of natural and built environments. Discarded electronic components are paired with geological minerals - materials extracted to drive technological advancement - creating a dialogue between progress and its environmental toll. Lee, a Korean American artist and Assistant Professor and Head of Visual Arts at Montclair State University, has been featured internationally in solo and group exhibitions throughout the U.S., South Korea, and China. This event is free and open to the public.
Other Events and Activities
Child Development Research Study
Ongoing
Looking for an indoor activity to get you out of the house in February? Come play games with us at the MIND Lab! We are currently recruiting 4- and 5-year-olds for a longitudinal research study. Earn up to $400 over the course of a year for attending 1 virtual and 4 in-person sessions. You will answer some surveys while your child plays games with our staff and undergoes fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy), a safe, non-invasive type of neuroimaging. To sign up, visit https://redcapweb.smith.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=ANYN8LN9N3 For more information, email mindlab@smith.edu or find us on Facebook or Instagram @SmithMindLab.
OPEN HOUSE: Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill
Sunday, Jan. 26, 10-11:30 a.m., 28 Lyman Road
Open House: Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill, Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at 28 Lyman Road. Learn more about the infant, toddler and preschool programs offered by Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill. Families who are interested in the programs can tour the center, visit classrooms, and meet teachers and administrators. Currently accepting applications for the 2025-26 academic year. Application deadline is February 14, 2025. Benefited Smith employees are eligible for a tuition grant. For more information visit http://www.smith.edu/forthill
Smith Basketball April Break Kids Sports Academy 4/21-4/24
April 21-24, Ainsworth Gym
Smith Basketball is hosting an April Break Multi-Sports Academy April 21-24 for all kids in kindergarten to Grade 6. College coaches & players will utilize the unique facilities at Smith College (indoor track and tennis facility, 3 full size gyms, squash courts, yoga room, film room, field turf, soccer field, and hiking trails) to facilitate activities that range from team sports (ex: basketball, soccer) and fun initiative games (ex: shipwreck, sports obstacle courses) to arts and crafts, talent shows, and movie screenings.