WELCOMING THE CLASS OF 2025 Skidmore welcomed a first-year class of 728 students, drawn from a record pool of 11,200 applicants, that is as diverse as it is engaged. Members of the Class of 2025 speak more than 40 different languages, come from 39 states and 24 countries, have been recognized for outstanding athletic and academic achievements, and have performed with both the Joffrey and Bolshoi ballet companies. More than a quarter self-identify as domestic students of color, and 10% are the first in their families to go to college. “As a class, you bring to Skidmore a wide range and diverse assortment of talents and experiences,” said Mary Lou Bates, vice president and dean of admissions and financial aid. “You are a wonderfully talented, energetic, and diverse group.” This year, more than 400 members of the class once again participated in Skidmore’s exciting pre-orientation programs, which ranged from hiking expeditions in the Adirondacks to programs at the Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery. Another 26 students were spending their first semester abroad as part of Skidmore’s First-Year Experience program in London. Members of the first-year class, along with 20 transfer students, were officially welcomed to campus during New Student Convocation at Williamson Sports Center on Sept. 5. Together, they joined the
Skidmore community by affirming Skidmore’s Honor Code. Amon Emeka, director of the FirstYear Experience and associate professor of sociology, welcomed the incoming class on behalf of the Skidmore faculty. “This is your community,” he said. “Take the rights and responsibilities of membership in this community seriously.” President Marc Conner told the new students: “Be fearless and bold as you embark on a great liberal arts education and all that entails.”
Familiar traditions With robust safety measures, including nearly universal vaccination and indoor masking requirements in place, students once again were able to experience many cherished Skidmore traditions, including New Student Convocation, the Founder’s Day barbecue, Club Fair, and Celebration Weekend. Here are a few scenes from a vibrant fall.
All students were invited to assemble safely — according to campus COVID-19 safety and health protocols — for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic for Founder’s Day, Skidmore’s annual back-to-school cookout and tribute to Lucy Scribner.
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SCOPE FALL 2021
