Researchers Discuss Novel Approach to Sexual Assault Prevention

Shamus Khan, a professor of sociology at Princeton, alongside Jennifer Hirsch, a professor of sociomedical sciences at Columbia, discussed their research into sexual assault on college campuses, as published in their 2020 book “Sexual Citizens: Sex, Power, and Assault on Campus.”

AAS Major Fair Highlights Academic Offerings

The second annual major fair, the culmination of an Association of Amherst Students (AAS) Senate project seeking to build academic support and resource-sharing networks among students, took place last Saturday afternoon.

Jones Libary Moves Ahead With Major Expansion

At a meeting on March 15, the Town of Amherst’s Jones Library trustees unanimously reaffirmed their support for the library’s renovation project. The expansion will create more space for special collections and enhance the accessibility of the library’s services.

Secretary Lhamon Discusses Enforcement, Future of Civil Rights in Education

Students and faculty gathered for an event on the future of civil rights in education with Catherine Lhamon ’93, the assistant secretary for civil rights at the United States Department of Education, on Thursday, March 23.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: March 22 to March 29

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s edition: the college brings back the Five College Film Festival, Morris Pratt Loses SHEP Status, and more.

Police Log: March 21 to March 27

The latest installment of the Police Log, from March 21 to March 27, can be found here.

Climate Action Plan Construction Begins

On March 13, construction began on the college’s project to transition all buildings to carbon-free heating and cooling systems. The construction represents the next stage of the college’s sweeping Climate Action Plan (CAP), which commits Amherst to full decarbonization by 2030.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: March 8 to March 21

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: Angie Tissi-Gassoway becomes the new Chief and Dean of Students, Take Your Professor Out returns, and more.

Amherst Admits 9 Percent of Applicants to Class of 2027

The college admitted 9 percent of 12,700 applicants to the class of 2027. A slight drop in application numbers consistent with peer institutions accounts for a 2 percent increase from last year’s acceptance rate, while diversity metrics remained largely unchanged.

Hampshire College Opens Its Doors to Florida Students

Hampshire College is immediately accepting all transfers from New College of Florida, a school with a similarly exploratory approach to education, after Governor Ron DeSantis upended the school’s leadership.

Campus Police Log: March 7 to March 20

The latest installment of the Police Log, from March 7 to March 20, can be found here.

College Anticipates 15 Percent Budget Cut

All college departments and divisions have been asked to cut their budgets by 15 percent for the 2024 fiscal year in the wake of a decrease in the college’s endowment.

Panel Reflects on Future of Race in Admissions

The college hosted a panel discussion on race in admissions on Thursday, March 2. Speakers included Ryan Park ’05 — who argued on behalf of the UNC’s admissions policy in one of the cases before the Supreme Court — and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Matthew McGann.

AAS Hears Findings on College’s Connections to Slavery

A researcher hired by the college to examine Amherst’s racial history and economic ties to slavery up to and through the 1860s, Mike Jirik, outlined highlights of his findings thus far at the regular meeting of The Association of Amherst Students (AAS) on Feb. 27.

AAS Candidate Statements for Special Elections Spring 2023

The Association of Amherst Students (AAS) will hold elections for one senator for the class of 2023, one senator for the class of 2024, and one senator for transfer students this Thursday, March 9. The students listed have announced their candidacies for these elections.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: March 1 to March 7

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the demise of AmherstBussin, updates to the Mammoth Meals app, and more.

Campus Police Log: Feb. 28 to March 6

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Feb. 28 to March 6, can be found here.

Fizz Captures Attention, Draws Criticism

The arrival of Fizz, a college-oriented and anonymous social-media app, has garnered praise for its community-building potential, but some are concerned by its failure to moderate objectionable content.

Speakers, Booksignings, Gallery Openings: College Celebrates 8th LitFest

This weekend, the college hosted the eighth annual LitFest, a literary festival featuring award-winning writers and opportunities for students to share and cultivate their writing.

Trustees Begin Publishing Meeting Summaries

Summaries of the Board of Trustees’ meetings will be publicly available from this point forward. The change comes as a compromise amid a push to elect a student representative to the board.

Notes from the Newsroom: The Snow Day That Wasn't

We asked the newsroom to reflect on the crushed hopes and tumbles of Tuesday, Feb. 28 —the snow day that wasn't.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Feb. 21 to Feb. 28

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: student-firefighters, AAS shuttles, and more.

Campus Police Log: Feb. 21 to Feb. 28

The latest installment of the police log, from Feb. 21 to Feb. 28, can be found here.

Students Respond to Earthquake in Turkey and Syria

Following an earthquake that has caused nearly 50,000 deaths in Turkey and Syria, The Student spoke with students from the affected region about their experiences in the aftermath of the tragedy, the college’s response, and efforts to raise relief funds.

Latin Honors Requirement Change Prompts Campus Debate

Community reactions to the recent change in the college's Latin honors policy — especially the introduction of a breadth requirement — have revealed points of disagreement about the open curriculum and the symbolic value of Latin honors.

Alumni Panel Looks Back at Amherst Uprising

A group of alumni who were present for the 2015 Amherst Uprising, which shed light on the difficulties faced by students of color on campus, returned for a panel in the Powerhouse on Feb. 16 to discuss the lessons they drew from the Uprising and give advice to current students.

Police Log: Feb. 14 to Feb. 20

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Feb. 14 to Feb. 20, can be found here.

Faculty Approve Changes to Latin Honors Policy

The faculty voted to approve new criteria for the college-level determination of Latin honors, in a meeting on Feb. 7. The new criteria, which are based on a student’s median grade and the fulfillment of a breadth requirement, replace the previous criterion that awarded honors based on class rank.

Panel, Exhibitions, Dinners Highlight Black History Month

This February, students, faculty, and staff have collaborated on events ranging from keynote speakers to art festivals, all with the common goal of celebrating Amherst’s Black community.

AAS Aims To Leave Behind Turmoil, Focus on Future Projects

Following the turmoil of the fall semester, The Student spoke with senators and E-board members alike to learn what their hopes are for the coming months, and what efforts they are taking to right the course of student governance at the college.

Notes From the Newsroom: Valentine’s Day Vignettes

To commemorate Valentine's Day, members of the newsroom share some of the joys and perils of the holiday of love at Amherst.

Panel Sheds Light on Refugees in Western Mass.

On Feb. 7, the college hosted an event titled "Refugee Settlement in the Pioneer Valley." Panelists spoke on the global refugee crisis and explained the process of resettlement in the Pioneer Valley.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Feb. 8 to Feb. 14

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: an Office of Student Affairs meet-and-greet, LitFest workshops, and more.

Campus Police Log: Feb. 8 to Feb. 13

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Feb. 8 to Feb. 13, can be found here.

Students Mourn Loss of Professor Tanya Leise

Tanya Leise, Brian E. Boyle professor in mathematics and computer science and the first woman mathematician tenured at the college, died on Jan. 18 after persevering through a cancer diagnosis. Several students shared remembrances of her impact at the college and in their own lives.

Liz Agosto, Head of Student Affairs, Dean of Students, Steps Down

On Jan. 31, Liz Agosto, dean of students and chief student affairs officer, officially stepped down from her posts at the college. Interim Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer Angie Tissi-Gassoway was named by President Michael Elliott as interim chief student affairs officer.

AAS Shakes Up Budget Process Amid Fiscal Uncertainty

Amid an ongoing budget deficit and lack of clarity over fiscal figures, the Association of Amherst Students Budgetary Committee has not yet allocated club budgets for this semester, and has adopted a new standard of “urgency” for evaluating budget requests.

Schwemm’s Transformed into Merchandise Store

The Mammoth Market at Schwemm's was transformed over winter break. It no longer offers hot food and is in the process of being converted into the college's official apparel store. To compensate, the Science Center Cafe will become the sole option for late-night dining.

Mead Art Museum Reopens After Steeple Repairs

On Tuesday, Jan. 31, under the leadership of its new director Siddhartha V. Shah, the Mead Art Museum opened its doors to the general public for the first time in nearly three years. In addition to Covid shutdowns, the Mead was forced to close again in March 2022 for repairs to the Stearns Steeple.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Dec. 7 to Feb. 7

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the college announces its new CFAO, the AAS inaugurates a new vice president, and more.

Police Log: Dec. 6 to Feb. 7

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Dec. 6 to Feb. 7, can be found here.

AAS Senate Votes Not To Impeach President

The Association of Amherst Students (AAS) held an impeachment trial of AAS President Sirus Wheaton ’23 on Monday night. The Senate voted not to impeach Wheaton by a 19-12 vote. The hearing drew a massive student turnout and laid bare the tensions within AAS.

Ankit Sayed ’24 To Become AAS VP After Challenge Petition Ruled Invalid

Having won the special election held on Dec. 1, Ankit Sayed ’24 will be inaugurated as AAS vice president next semester. The election encountered a number of problems, including balloting failures, the release of incorrect results, and a petition challenging the results that was deemed invalid.

Class of ’23E Looks Back on Unusual College Experience

The graduation ceremony for the Class of 2023E will be held in Johnson Chapel on Sunday, Dec. 11. Members of the abnormally large class reminisce on their college experience, reflecting on their first years, the pandemic, and favorite professors.

Endowment Declines 10 Percent Amid Nationwide Inflation

The college’s endowment declined 10 percent over the 2022 fiscal year due to high inflation, which is also increasing the college’s operating costs. The administration indicated that they expect to have to make cuts in the next few years as a result.

As Enrollment Recovers, Hampshire Students Reflect

After sizable decreases in enrollment resulting from financial implosion in 2019, Hampshire College enrolled a class of 275 first years this fall — the largest since 2018. The Student spoke to some Hampshire students about their recent experiences, and their cautious optimism about the future.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Nov. 30 to Dec. 6

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the Writing Center requests feedback from the student body, the administration releases an update to the Climate Action Plan, and more.

Campus Police Log: Nov. 29 to Dec. 5

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Nov. 29 to Dec. 5, can be found here.

Newport Living Conditions Draw Complaints

President Elliott recently toured Newport House to survey issues residents have with its living conditions, including mold and infestation. Residents say that the problems with the dorm, which serves as the Spanish language and Latinx theme house, have hindered Latinx community-building on campus.

John Mikhail ’91 Discusses Constitution’s Relationship to Slavery

On Nov. 17, professor of jurisprudence, author, and alumnus John Mikhail ’91 spoke at the Amherst Political Union’s first talk of the year, entitled “Was Frederick Douglass Right?” Mikhail discussed the “federal consensus,” arguing that the original constitution allowed for the abolition of slavery.

Special Election: AAS Vice President Candidate Statements

On Thursday, Dec. 1, the Association of Amherst Students will hold a special election for vice president following the former vice president’s resignation on Nov. 7. The students listed have announced their candidacies for the election.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Nov. 16 to Nov. 29

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: bias-related vandalism at Book and Plow Farm, the Office of Sustainability launches a new Green Living Certification program, and more.

Campus Police Log: Nov. 15 to Nov. 28

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Nov. 15 to Nov. 28, can be found here.

Plimpton Basement Destroyed During Saturday Night Party

Plimpton House was left trashed with its basement destroyed after a large party on the night of Saturday, Nov. 12. The damage was “an extreme act of vandalism” according to Chief of Police John Carter, who added that the repairs are estimated to cost more than $5,000.

Siddhartha V. Shah Begins Tenure as New Mead Director

Siddhartha V. Shah assumed the position of John Wieland 1958 director of the Mead Art Museum on Tuesday, Nov. 15. In addition to overseeing the typical duties of a museum director, Shah hopes to create a welcoming and diverse space that reflects the community it serves.

On Veterans Day, Former Service Members Reflect on Amherst Experience

Friday, Nov. 11, was Veterans Day, a federal holiday that usually receives little attention on campus. For Amherst’s veterans, though, the holiday provides an important moment of recognition. The Student spoke to four students about how being a veteran impacts their experience at the college.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Nov. 9 to Nov. 15

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the administration announces an updated masking policy, the Take Your Professor/Staff Out program returns, and more.

Campus Police Log: Nov. 8 to Nov. 14

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Nov. 8 to Nov. 14, can be found here.

AAS Vice-President Resigns, Citing Discontent

On Monday, Nov. 7, AAS Vice-President Jaden Richards ’25 resigned from his office, citing frustrations with AAS President Sirus Wheaton ’23 and the dysfunction of AAS. A special election for a new vice-president will be held on Dec. 1.

Pro-democracy Initiatives Seek To Engage Apathetic Student Body

With democracy on the ballot in Tuesday’s midterms, The Student interviewed community members on the state of political engagement on campus. Although several reported a concerning level of apathy and detachment, community leaders also spoke about efforts to renew engagement and faith in democracy.

College Community Anticipates Likely End of Affirmative Action

On Oct. 31, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in two cases concerning race-conscious admissions. Community members spoke about the potential impact that the court’s decision, which is expected to overturn precedent, would have on the college’s efforts to promote diversity. 

College Hosts Journalist George Packer in Point/Counterpoint Lecture Series

Award-winning journalist, novelist, and playwright George Packer spoke to the campus community on Thursday, Nov. 3, as part of the college’s Point/Counterpoint series. In addition to describing his concept of “four Americas,” Packer laid out his fears and hopes for American democracy.

Brazilian Students Celebrate Reelection of Former President Lula da Silva

Former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was reelected by the Brazilian people on Oct. 30, ousting incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. Brazilian students on campus celebrated Bolsonaro’s ouster and reflected on what da Silva’s reelection means for the country.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Nov. 2 to Nov. 8

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the college tests its emergency alert system, results of the masking survey are released, and more.

Campus Police Log: Nov. 1 to Nov. 7

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Nov. 1 to Nov. 7, can be found here.

Contra Article “In Defense of Hamas” Draws Criticism

During the week of Oct. 16, The Amherst Contra sparked controversy with a piece titled “In Defense of Hamas.” The article was shared widely online, and prompted responses from students and administration alike.

College Community Celebrates Inauguration of Michael Elliott ’92 as 20th President

On Oct. 28, students, faculty, alumni, and other members of the college community gathered to watch the inauguration of Michael Elliott ’92 as the 20th president of the college.

AAS Revises Club Funding Policies Amid Budget Crisis

The AAS Budgetary Committee on Oct. 23 announced stricter funding policies around food for events, club travel, and emergency funding. The policies are in response to budget constraints the AAS is facing due to a reduced student activities fee relative to before Covid.

Student Activities Sees Upswing in Campus RSOs

Following a drop in approved RSOs due to the pandemic, this semester has seen a significant rise in new affinity groups and organizations sponsored by academic departments. The Student spoke with leaders of four new RSOs to learn about the clubs’ origins and goals.

College Hosts Political Anthropologist Negar Razavi To Discuss Iran Protests

Political anthropologist Negar Razavi spoke to community members on Friday, Oct. 21, as part of the college’s response to an alumni petition for Amherst’s formal support of students in Iran amid ongoing protests.

Human Rights Leader Speaks on Israeli Treatment of Palestinians

On Oct. 19, international human rights attorney Omar Shakir, the Israel and Palestine director at Human Rights Watch (HRW), gave a talk in Stirn Auditorium on the organization’s 2021 report that found the Israeli government guilty of apartheid against its Palestinian population.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Oct. 19 to Nov. 1

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: Amherst Labor Alliance calls on alumni to halt donations, the administration mandates emergency preparedness training, and more.

Campus Police Log: Oct. 18 to Oct. 31

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Oct. 18 to Oct. 31, can be found here.

College Condemns Attacks on Iranian Student Protesters Following Alumni Petition

President Michael Elliott sent out a schoolwide letter on Oct. 12 condemning the ongoing attacks by the Islamic Republic on Iranian student protesters. The letter followed a petition signed by over 100 students and alumni that called on Elliott to stand with Iranian students.

Congressman Jamie Raskin Speaks on State of American Democracy, Jan. 6 Insurrection

On Tuesday, Oct. 18, Congressman Jamie Raskin spoke on campus as part of the Point/Counterpoint series “Democracy at a Cross Roads.” The talk discussed the threats facing American democracy and Raskin’s role on the January 6 committee.

Loeb Center Hosts Workshop as Part of Social Impact Initiative

On Thursday, Oct. 13, the Loeb Center hosted a workshop providing students with guidance on how to begin pursuing a socially impactful career. The workshop was part of a broader push toward increasing resources for students interested in public service or nonprofit work.

Photo Series: Community Enjoys Seasonal Favorites at Fall Fest

Pho Vu ’23 captures in photos the myriad of fun activities the campus community enjoyed at this year’s Fall Festival, which took place on Sunday, Oct. 16.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Oct. 13 to Oct. 18

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the college announces a raffle for newly-boosted students, the Town of Amherst holds a 5k run, and more.

Campus Police Log: Oct. 12 to Oct. 17

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Oct. 12 to Oct. 17, can be found here.

College Opts Not To Approve J-Term for January 2023

No for-credit classes will be offered in January 2023, Provost and Dean of the Faculty Catherine Epstein told The Student. The decision follows the recommendation made by the Ad Hoc Committee to Evaluate the January Term, which identified a number of logistical and staffing issues with J-Term.

Campus Police Log: Oct. 4 to Oct. 11

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Oct. 4 to Oct. 11, can be found here.

Due to Budget Deficits, AAS Faces Depletion of Funds

The Association of Amherst Students is facing a significant depletion in its funds, due to reductions in the student activities fee — its only source of income — during the pandemic. The Budgetary Committee is considering stricter guidelines on discretionary spending to curtail the depletion.

Community Honors Memory and Legacy of Professor Franklin Odo

John Woodruff Simpson Lecturer Franklin Odo passed away on Sept. 28. A renowned scholar and inspiring teacher, he left his mark on both the field of Asian American studies and the lives of many students.

Schwemm’s Set To Become Merch Store Before Plans Put On Hold

This past week, the Schwemm’s Mammoth Market began to be converted into a merchandise shop, with hot food offerings eliminated. Plans to make the transition, which were met with concerns from workers, were suddenly canceled, however, with a final decision on the changes delayed until later.

Access to Amherst Makes Successful Return in Person Following Scramble for Hosts

Access to Amherst, a free fly-in program which introduces prospective applicants to the college’s campus, student body, faculty, and classes, took place in person for the first time since fall 2019 this past weekend, despite challenges in recruiting student hosts to accommodate the attendees.

Students Targeted by Phishing Attacks Impersonating President

Up until about two weeks ago, a handful of students and faculty members received text messages soliciting personal information from a sender claiming to be President Michael Elliott. The phishing attempts are part of a nationwide increase in cyber attacks against institutions of higher education.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Sept. 28 to Oct. 4

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the college releases new masking policy for classrooms, President Michael Elliott debuts on WAMH, and more.

Campus Police Log: Sept. 27 to Oct. 3

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Sept. 27 to Oct. 3, can be found here.

Contract Dispute Halts AAS-sponsored Free Detergent Program

The Association of Amherst Students (AAS)-sponsored program to provide a free, sustainable laundry detergent alternative to students has ceased to operate this year due to contract issues between the college and service provider Generation Conscious.

ACEMS Redoubles Efforts To Diversify Membership

In an effort to diversify its membership, the Amherst College Emergency Medical Services (ACEMS) has made a number of changes to its recruitment and application process this semester, including expanded advertising and a reworking of its application.

McCaffrey Room To Transition From Meeting Space to Student Affairs Hub

Starting this semester, the McCaffrey Room is no longer available for use by students, as it will soon transition to being used by the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to provide a number of practical and informational services to students.

MRC Hosts Queer Latinx Author Gabby Rivera for Latinx Heritage Month

On Thursday, Sept. 22, the Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) hosted prominent queer Puerto Rican author and activist Gabby Rivera in Johnson Chapel as its keynote speaker for Latinx Heritage Month.

Loeb Center Hosts Head of Adobe Policy Development Julie Babayan ’03

On Tuesday, Sept. 20, Julie Babayan ’03 — the head of policy development for Adobe’s policy, government, and ethical innovation team in Washington, D.C. — shared her vision on worldwide technology policy as part of the Loeb Center’s Alumni-in-Residence series.

AAS Candidate Statements for 2022-2023 Senators

The Association of Amherst Students (AAS) will hold elections for two senators for the class of 2024 and eight senators for the class of 2026 on Thursday, Sept. 29, from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. The students listed have announced their candidacies for these elections.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Sept. 21 to Sept. 27

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: the college releases dates for the upcoming Covid-19 booster clinic, and the Association of Amherst Students releases its Career Exploration Database.

Campus Police Log: Sept. 20 to Sept. 26

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Sept. 20 to Sept. 26, can be found here.

Counseling Center Changes Name, Expands Staff and Services

The Counseling Center — now the Center for Counseling and Mental Health — has added seven new counselors to its team this semester. The center has also launched a new online scheduling tool and expanded its group therapy offerings.

Town of Amherst Block Party Draws Thousands

An estimated 6,000 people, including many Amherst students, enjoyed live music, local food, and acrobatic performances at the annual Amherst block party on Thursday, Sept. 15. It was the first time the event had been held since 2019.

College Highlights Latinx History in La Causa, LLAS Anniversary Celebration

An all-day event celebrating the 50th anniversary of La Causa and the fifth anniversary of the Latinx and Latin American studies department was held in the Eighty Powerhouse on Thursday, Sept. 15. The event featured a host of alumni panelists, whose class years ranged from 1974 to 2020.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Sept. 14 to Sept. 20

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that has occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: college announces Covid vaccine booster clinic, the Marriage Pact opens for the new year, and more.