September 1, 2025
Dear alumni, family, and friends of Connecticut College,
The opening of the school year is always one of the most energizing times on campus, and this year was no exception. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the Conn community, our students and families were welcomed with warmth and care, even as we navigated the complications of construction. What could have been a stressful moment became a smooth, positive experience because of the impressive dedication and good humor.
These moments of success remind me why Conn is such a special place—and why the climb we are making together is worth it. In my first year here, I was a student of this community, learning from all of you. Now, as I begin my sophomore year as your president, I know my role is not only to keep learning, but also to lead as we continue embracing the hill before us.
Every hill has its challenges—the loose rocks, the steep stretches, the unexpected turns. It’s true, this fall, we face enrollment pressures, rising costs, and the need to strengthen our financial health. Yet, the hills also give us perspective. Each step up brings a wider view of who we are and where we’re headed. And with every stride, we grow stronger together.
On the Horizon:
- Save the date and register for Fall Weekend, Sept. 26–27 by Sept. 15. Highlights include Pumpkin Carving (Sept. 26, 1 p.m.), the A Cappella Showcase (Sept. 26, 7:45 p.m.), the Fall Picnic on Tempel Green (Sept. 27, 12 p.m.), Athletics & the Camel Fan Zone (Sept. 27, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.), and Pumpkins & Pooches (Sept. 27, 12 p.m.–2 p.m). Please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement at(860) 439-2300 or alumni@conncoll.edu with any questions.
- Dr. Sarah Jaquette Ray will be on campus on October 14, 2025, for the launch of Seeding Change, a new collaboration between the Office of Sustainability and the Walter Commons. Dr. Ray, author of A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety, explores climate justice, social justice, and the emotional terrain of the climate crisis.
Conn in the News:
August was a strong month for Conn voices in the media. Highlights include:
- Mays Imad published an op-ed in Inside Higher Ed on moral injury in higher education.
- Tim Stevens shared his insights in Yahoo Entertainment on the staying power of action films and political satire.
- Carla Parker-Athill and Taegan McMahon had their research on fungus metabolites and ghost shrimp highlighted in The Microbiologist.
- Alex Giannianis explained the science behind a glowing orb over Connecticut in an interview with NBC Connecticut.
- Rob Richter was featured in The Day, honoring his 27 years of leadership in the arts at Conn as he prepared for retirement.
You can view the full list of recent media coverage on Conn in the News.
Climbing the hill together takes effort, patience, and trust. It also brings pride, optimism, and confidence in Conn’s future. I see these qualities in the entire Conn community and thank you for continuing to embrace the climb with me.
With gratitude,
Andrea E. Chapdelaine, Ph.D.
President