Hey Class of 2013,

Kenyon is at its peak Kenyon-ness in the fall. You know what I mean – the riot of color on the trees arching over Middle Path, cool breezes and studying on Ransom Lawn, the energy and excitement for diving afresh into intellectual problems with the new semester. What memories capture the feeling of fall at Kenyon for you? I’d love to hear them!

Whatever the season, I look forward to running into you on the Hill again soon, especially since we haven’t had a chance to reconnect there in some time.  And what a campus we’ll have to return to! Chalmers Library is open and beautiful. Have you seen the disco ball-esque skylight feature? All four classes are studying together again in Gambier –with a bonus first-year cohort finishing a semester in Copenhagen! And plans are taking shape for an unforgettable Reunion 2022 on the Hill. Mark your calendars for the weekend of May 27. All alumni are invited to attend!

In other exciting campus news, the College just shared a new strategic plan that will guide its planning and actions leading up to the bicentennial in 2024 and beyond. You’ll be pleased to see it includes core elements like developing a computer science program informed by the liberal arts; enrolling, retaining and graduating a student body that is representative of the talent and diversity of our nation and the world; implementing a holistic approach to health and wellness, with an emphasis on mental health; and expanding its commitment to environmental responsibility.

You have also likely heard the announcement of the Kenyon Access Initiative which will bring more high-achieving students to Kenyon thanks to a $25 million matching grant from the Schuler Education Foundation. Any amount we give through this Kenyon Access Initiative will be matched 1:1 and will go to a new scholarship for students from families with limited means and those ineligible for government aid — up to $25 million.

Scroll on to learn more about Kenyon’s strategic plan and the Kenyon Access Initiative (and how they fit into our 2024 bicentennial celebration).

As you read about what’s in store for Kenyon’s future, I hope you’ll consider supporting today’s students with a gift to the Kenyon Fund and/or the new Kenyon Access Initiative, which has the potential to bring 50 additional talented and deserving students to Kenyon each year.

Kenyon couldn’t be Kenyon without involved and supportive alums like us. As the bicentennial draws closer, I challenge each of you to do a little more than you have in the past to help make Kenyon the special place it is. This could mean becoming an alumni volunteer, attending a College event, submitting a class note, or setting up a recurring gift. 

Thank you!
Meaghan Pachay