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/.
12/10/2024 Digest
Geothermal Energy Project
HVAC Work at ITT Related to Geothermal
December 9
We are converting the HVAC system at the ITT to hot water for the upcoming geothermal connection. This work includes replacing all five air-handling units as well as the ceiling fans. The majority of the work will be during the summer; but meanwhile, we will be using a couple of lifts inside the ITT to hang new HVAC piping on the ceiling starting the week of December 9. Thank you for your understanding through this ongoing major project.
Upper College Lane Impacts - December 2024
Monday, Dec. 16
Ahead of our typical winter update focused on campus-wide construction through the spring and summer months, we would like to provide a critical update to the campus regarding upcoming construction that will impact traffic at upper College Lane from mid-Dec 2024 through November 2025. Please see the summary below and attached logistics plans for the extent of traffic impacts during this time period. Visit https://smithgeoenergy.info/project-overview for more information and to sign up for the weekly project update.
Faculty/Staff Notices
Have an Idea for Smith Arts Day 2025?
On Saturday, April 19, the Smith Office for the Arts will host the second Smith Arts Day, a day-long celebration of the artistic and creative community at Smith College, bringing the arts together - across disciplines and across campus. SOFA invites you to join us for performances, talks, exhibitions, art-making activities and more. Are you a Smith faculty or staff member interested in proposing something for Smith Arts Day? Click to express your interest by FEBRUARY 7: https://forms.gle/tFATy2VA6RYy6N167
Smith College Gears Up for 150th Anniversary
In September 1875, Smith College opened its doors to 14 students and six faculty members, thus setting in motion a vision outlined by founder Sophia Smith. To celebrate the sesquicentennial, Smith has launched a new website that will be regularly updated with stories and images from the archives, a comprehensive timeline, event listings, and more. All members of the Smith community are also invited to share a little love letter to Smith, which can be about anything from a favorite place on campus to an influential professor; these stories will also be posted on the 150th website. https://www.smith.edu/150
Important Preparation for Calendar Year Financial Close
December 31st marks the end of the calendar year, which brings a deadline for a number of tax reporting requirements as well as internal financial reporting. In order to ensure a smooth, accurate and timely financial close process, please see the Announcements on your Workday homepage to review your responsibilities and important dates regarding submission, review, approval and adjustment of key financial data. We appreciate your continued partnership.
Smith Writes Submissions
Dear WI instructors--as we enter the final phase of the semester, please be on the lookout for exceptional first-year student essays in your Writing Intensive courses, and encourage those students to submit to Smith Writes. The deadline for fall 2024 submissions is January 15, 2025. Students whose papers are accepted will have the opportunity to make final revisions with a member of the Jacobson Center staff. For more information, and to see this year's issue, go to https://sophia.smith.edu/smithwrites/. Contact Sara Eddy at seddy@smith.edu with any questions.
LAST CALL to Pick Up Your Selected Employee Appreciation Gift at Garrison Hall
The final day to pick up your selected employee Appreciation Gift at Garrison Hall is Thursday, December 19th. After this date, Human Resources will reallocate the remaining items to support other engagement initiatives. For those who have already picked up their gift, we hope that you're enjoying it!
Recruiting Children (Age 4-9) for Compensated Child Development Research This January at Smith
January 6 to February 5
The MIND in Development Lab is seeking families with young children (age 4-9) to participate in the Brain Synchrony Study. Participation involves one 2-hour session during which kids will play games and parents will answer questions about family experiences. Finally, parents and kids will play a game together while undergoing simultaneous neuroimaging with fNIRS (functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy), a safe, non-invasive method that uses LED Light to measure brain activity. Participants earn up to $60. NOW SCHEDULING SESSIONS IN JANUARY! 2-minute Eligibility Screener: https://redcapweb.smith.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=TP7F3W3E49AMTL37 For more information contact mindlab@smith.edu
Moodle Gradebook Workshop
Thursday, Dec. 12, 2 p.m., Neilson 011 (Ground Floor)
Do you need help finalizing your Moodle Gradebook for the Fall semester? ITS will be offering a workshop to cover common grading schemes, entering, and calculating grades. Sign up at: https://go.oncehub.com/SmithCollegeMoodleGradebook.
Student Notices
Festive Candlelit Holiday Dinner
Tuesday, Dec. 10, Student Houses
Come and enjoy a cozy, candlelit dinner with your friends at the Annual Holiday Dinner, happening tonight in the houses! Indulge in a delicious spread featuring: Beef short ribs, prime rib, chickpea panisse with mushroom ragout, vegetable dumpling, vegan ravioli, coconut poached salmon, statler chicken with herbs & lemon aioli, arroz con gandules, smashed fingerling potatoes, potato pancakes, challah bread, mudpies, peppermint ice cream pies, mulled cider, hot chocolate, chai and a few other surprises! A nice way to celebrate together!
Drop-in Research Support With the Library Research Mentors
Library Research Mentors (LRMs) are available for drop-in research support in the Neilson Learning Commons. LRMs can help you find books on specific topics, locate peer reviewed articles, navigate databases, format citations and so much more. Drop-in to ask any and all library and research questions. Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 1-4 p.m. & 7-10 p.m.; Friday 1-4 p.m.
Textbook Returns and Donations at the Campus Center
Through December 10, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Resource Room, Campus Center Lower Level
If you borrowed a textbook from the SGA Resource Room earlier in the semester or you have textbooks that you do not need, return or donate them to the SGA Resource Room's desk between December 2nd and December 10th. The Resource Room is located in the Campus Center on the Lower Level, and office hours are between 11am and 7pm.
Have an Idea for Smith Arts Day 2025?
On Saturday April 19, the Smith Office for the Arts will host the second Smith Arts Day, a day-long celebration of the artistic and creative community at Smith College, bringing the arts together - across disciplines and across campus. SOFA invites you to join us for performances, talks, exhibitions, art-making activities and more. This year we will also have a student performance showcase in the evening. Are you a Smith student or student group interested in proposing something for Smith Arts Day? Click to express your interest by FEBRUARY 7: https://forms.gle/tFATy2VA6RYy6N167
Smith College Gears Up for 150th Anniversary
In September 1875, Smith College opened its doors to 14 students and six faculty members, thus setting in motion a vision outlined by founder Sophia Smith. To celebrate the sesquicentennial, Smith has launched a new website that will be regularly updated with stories and images from the archives, a comprehensive timeline, event listings, and more. All members of the Smith community are also invited to share a little love letter to Smith, which can be about anything from a favorite place on campus to an influential professor; these stories will also be posted on the 150th website. https://www.smith.edu/150
Submit to Fusayfsa`
Deadline: Wednesday, Jan. 1
Fusayfsa`, Smith College's Middle East Studies journal, is now accepting submissions for our fourth issue. It is open to all undergraduates regardless of their institution. We are looking for research papers, opinion pieces, book/movie reviews, poetry, visual artwork, or anything produced by students related to the MENA region! The deadline for submissions is January 1, 2025. Please submit here: https://forms.gle/jV7jRogb8Bxs9Kbi8 For updates follow us on Instagram: @fusayfsa
Submit to Smith Writes!
Are you a first year student? Are you taking a WI course? Submit your best writing from that course to Smith Writes! Smith Writes is a journal dedicated to writing by first year students in WI classes at Smith. The deadline for fall 2024 submissions is January 15. Authors whose work is accepted will work with Jacobson Center staff to edit their work for publication. For more information, and to see this year's issue, go to https://sophia.smith.edu/smithwrites/ Contact Sara Eddy at seddy@smith.edu with any questions. Submissions should be sent to smithwrites@smith.edu.
WordPress Drop-In Help
Wednesday, Dec. 11, 4-5 p.m., Neilson 009, Ground Floor
Using WordPress for a class and need help? ITS Staff will be available for drop-in hours in the Neilson Library 009 Suites, located on the ground floor, to assist students with any questions related to Wordpress.
Fueling Finals with Food and Positivity
Wednesday, Dec. 11, 1-4 p.m., Campus Center Main Level Table
The SGA '28 Cabinet will provide free cake and cookies to fuel study sessions. Students will also be asked to write an encouraging note to their peers, which will be hung in testing areas after the event. This event is open to all students.
Register Now for 'First Gen in the Workplace' Alum Career Program
Thursday, Dec. 12, 12:30 p.m., Virtual Event
As a first-generation college student, you bring a unique set of strengths and perspectives that can shape how you approach networking and your future career. These qualities can be powerful assets as you begin to navigate the professional world. In this Alum Career Program virtual event, explore how to leverage these strengths. You’ll learn strategies for building a strong professional network, navigating workplace challenges, and how your background can be an asset in your career journey. Plus, discover how employers can support and empower first-gen talent. Register here: https://events.blackthorn.io/i0hMsA6/5a3tS62yqtp
Study Grilled Cheese and Cookie Delivery, Presented by Smith Ice Hockey
Thursday, Dec. 12
Need a study snack? Want warm grilled cheese and cookies delivered directly to your door? The Smith Ice Hockey team is delivering grilled cheese and cookies this Thursday evening! The team will be accepting orders at 6 p.m. and delivering until 11 p.m.-ish. Support the hockey team and order this Thursday! To order, visit https://forms.gle/L52qtP6mvvzJdBGW8 (opens 6 p.m.). Questions? @smithicehockey on IG
Apply Now: Alice Williams Carson ‘37 Endowed Summer Internship at the Toledo Museum of Art
Deadline: December 13
The Toledo Museum of Art and Smith College Department of Art offer a paid summer internship for two qualifying students. Recipients of the Alice Williams Carson '37 Endowed Internship will work in the Curatorial Department of the museum for the duration of the internship period. This internship provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in museum practice while working closely with curatorial staff on various projects. All Smith students interested in exploring a career in art museums are eligible to apply. Visit http://www.smith.edu/academics/art “Prizes, Internships, & Opportunities” for more information. Application Deadline: December 13, 2024
Technology News
ITS Updates Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, Dec. 17, 12:15 p.m., Virtual or In-Person (Location TBD)
Get the latest updates and information about ITS current work and planned initiatives at our monthly ITS Updates meetings. On Tuesday, Dec. 17, from 12:15 to 1:00 p.m., topics will include FY26 IT strategic initiatives, ITS budget rightsizing, and brief updates on other major IT projects. We have space for up to 12 people to join us in Stoddard Hall - feel free to bring your lunch. Or join us virtually over Zoom. Register for the December 17 session at https://go.oncehub.com/ITSUpdatesCommunityMeeting
Lectures/Symposia
ES&P Presents 'Sustainable Solutions' Senior Capstone Projects, Part 2
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 12:15 p.m., Neilson Library 102
Presentations include "Informing Smith College Botanic Garden's Seed Collecting Policy" from Caroline Leon, George Kermond, and Grace Ellis; and "Evaluating the Case For Green Schoolyards: Equity and Climate Adaption in Massachusetts Public Elementary Schools" from Malika Gottfried and Neelie Markley. Lunch provided.
SWG 150 Presents 'Listening for Reproductive Justice'
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 5 p.m., Alumnae Gym, 3rd Floor
Stories from the Archives. Refreshments will be provided. All are welcome. Please bring your own earbuds.
'Abortion Pills: US History and Politics' Book Launch and Conversation With the Author
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 5 p.m., Campus Center 103/4
“Abortion Pills: US History and Politics” book launch and conversation with the author, Carrie N. Baker, Chair of the Program for the Study of Women, Gender and Sexuality, Sylvia D’Lugasch Professor of American Studies. Facilitated by Jallicia A. Jolly, Assistant Professor of American Studies and Black Studies, Amherst College. Refreshments will be provided.
Performing Arts/Films/Fine Arts
Apply Now: Elizabeth Alexander Creative Writing Award
Deadline: December 31
The Elizabeth Alexander Creative Writing Award celebrates an author whose work embodies the lyrically powerful and historically engaged nature of Dr. Alexander’s writing. We aim for this award to highlight different forms of knowledge production that emerge from the artistic, political, and cultural advocacy undertaken by women of color nationally, transnationally, and globally. The award is open to all genres, including: poetry, fiction, play scripts, and non-fiction. Works engaging with feminism, race, and transnationalism will be prioritized. For more information about the award and how to submit, please visit https://sites.smith.edu/meridians/awards/elizabeth-alexander-creative-writing-award/
Wailing Banshees: Out on the Ocean
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m., Sweeney Concert Hall, Sage
The Wailing Banshees are Out on the Ocean presenting tunes and songs evoking the sea, ships and maritime adventures. Directed by Ellen Redman. As always, jigs, reel, and the best craic on campus. Free and open to the public.
Fall Grad Dance Event
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m., Scott Gym Dance Studio
Catch an exciting first look at new work by Smith MFA 1st-year candidates: Chavi Bansal, Dimitri Kalaitzidis, Hannah Littman,and Sarah Young. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Tickets $3 at http://smitharts.ludus.com.
Religious Life
Reading Week Hospitality
December 11-18, 10 a.m., Bodman Lounge, Chapel
CRSL will hold Reading Week Hospitality in Bodman Lounge at the end of classes, from December 11 to December 18 during Chapel open hours. We will be offering coffee, tea, snacks, and treats. We also encourage students to use the Chapel Sanctuary, Blue Room, Wright Hall Prayer Space, and Neilson Reflection Room for meditation, reflection, and contemplation. Join us!
Shabbat
Friday, Dec. 13, 5:30 p.m., Kosher K Kitchen, Jordan House
The Smith College Jewish Community invites you to the “K”, the Kosher Kitchen in Jordan House, for Kabbalat Shabbat on Friday nights at 5:30pm! Join together in song and prayer to welcome in Shabbat as a community. Services will often be followed by Kosher vegetarian meals. Check out @scjewishcomm on Instagram for weekly themes. All are welcome! Please reach out to scjc@smith.edu with any questions.