Dear members of the Mount Holyoke Community,
The College continues to advance campus renewal efforts, guided by a shared vision: an inclusive and enduring place of learning that advances Mount Holyoke’s mission and supports the values that shape this community. Building on the “big ideas” shared in the fall (academic excellence, student experience, community connection and leading landscapes), this work is moving forward through both the geothermal project and the Comprehensive Campus Plan (CCP) and is a long-term investment in our learning and living environments.
The geothermal project remains a key part of the College’s sustainability strategy. Work is progressing in phases as infrastructure is developed to support the transition to a new campus energy system. As shared in the March 9 update, the focus through June will be on areas in and around Mary Woolley Circle, Rockefeller Road and Chapin Road. This summer, work in North and South Rockefeller and Mead Halls will continue. While the geothermal project will take place over several years and may bring temporary disruptions, it is an important step toward a more resilient and efficient campus.
The CCP also continues to take shape. The Board of Trustees has reviewed the major components of the plan, and a final version will be presented in May for approval. The plan outlines a coordinated set of priorities, developed with careful attention to sustainability and aligned with MHC Forward, which calls for investments in academic excellence, student experience and campus infrastructure while stewarding resources responsibly. These priorities include a new science building and renovated academic commons, updates to Rooke Theatre and Williston Memorial Library and ongoing renewal of residence halls.
As part of this work, we are sharing a recording of a virtual presentation given to faculty and staff earlier this semester. Please note that the recording begins about 10 minutes into the session. The concepts presented reflect an early stage of planning and a full design phase is still ahead.
Together, these efforts represent an investment in Mount Holyoke’s future — strengthening our academic core and supporting how students learn, live and connect. This work is funded through dedicated capital sources, including fundraising and project-based financing, which are separate from the College’s operating budget. Planning will continue to be guided by thoughtful decision making that balances institutional priorities and the needs of our community with available resources, consistent with MHC Forward. As it continues, there will be additional opportunities for input and dialogue. We also welcome your questions and feedback via email at campusplan@mtholyoke.edu.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Sincerely,
Carl M. Ries
Vice President for Finance and Administration, Treasurer
Karla Youngblood, FP’99
Associate Vice President, Facilities Management