Alums Return to Campus for Come Home to Smith

Smith welcomed 350 alums and their guests to campus October 24 for the second annual Come Home to Smith. Smithies visited from more than 20 states—and as far away as California—to enjoy a beautiful fall day in Northampton; reconnect with friends, classmates, and faculty members; and make new connections. Come Home to Smith coincides with Smith VOICES, which focused on Smith volunteers this year, and Family Weekend.

Alums started the day at Alumnae House for an opening reception. After, they explored campus and took part in a wide range of activities, including planting bulbs in Capen Garden, taking a walk up the Mill River with the Outdoor Adventure Program, visiting open houses, and attending talks such as “All the Geothermal You Cannot See” and “How to Talk to People You Don't Know (Yet).”

Like many who attended Come Home to Smith, Madeleine Duchene ’16 shared how excited she was to visit campus again. “Smith is the place where I feel most authentically myself. It’s great to have the chance to come back to campus and engage with other Smithies.”

President Sarah Willie-LeBreton emphasized the value of the Smith experience during her presentation to alums. She also expressed her desire to make all Smithies feel they belong when they step on campus. “Being a Smithie is part of every one of you, no matter how far you've traveled or how long you've been away,” President Sarah said. “I hope you always consider this your home, and know that you are always welcome here.”