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.

Campus Police Log: Sept. 13 to Sept. 19

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Sept. 13 to Sept. 19, can be found here.

Amherst Labor Alliance Stages Protest at Trustee Dinner

Just over a dozen members of the Amherst Labor Alliance gathered on Thursday, Sept. 8, to protest staff working conditions at a “Pizza with the Trustees” event behind the Inn at Boltwood, which hosted board members, President Michael Elliott, and specially-invited students.

New Covid Bathroom Policy Reversed Before Implemented

After announcing a plan for integrated residence hall bathroom use between Covid-positive and uninfected students, the college reversed its decision just hours later upon receiving substantial student backlash.

College Relaxes Covid Protocols Amid Uptick in Cases

Despite an increase in cases, the college has relaxed some of its Covid restrictions and opted not to reinstate surveillance testing at this time. The decision reflects a shift away from institutional management of community health to a reliance on personal responsibility, a Sept. 8 email stated.

Students Offer Advice to President Elliott

As President Michael Elliott begins his first semester at the college, The Student surveyed students to gather their advice for the new president. Responses ranged from demands for greater transparency to suggestions regarding specific campus issues.

The Emily Dickinson Museum Reopens After Two Years

Following more than two years of closure, the newly refurbished Emily Dickinson Museum, transformed through a recent restoration project, reopened its doors on Aug. 16.

Mammoth Moments in Miniature: Sept. 7 to Sept. 13

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: Mocha Joe’s coffee, Late Night Dining, and an AAS town hall.

Campus Police Log: Sept. 6 to Sept. 12

The latest installment of the Police Log, from Sept. 6 to Sept. 12, can be found here.

Michael Elliott ’92 Begins Tenure As 20th President of Amherst College

Michael Elliott ’92, formerly a professor of English and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Emory University, began his tenure as Amherst College’s 20th president on Aug. 1.

The Return to Amherst: An Interview with President Michael Elliott

President Michael Elliott sat down with The Student to discuss his journey back to Amherst, and his plans at the college moving forward.

Class of 2026 Arrives on Campus

The class of 2026, Amherst's 204th class, arrived on campus last week. Despite a false active shooter alert and some continued Covid restrictions, this year's orientation was the most normal since the fall of 2019.

False Active Shooter Alerts Rattle Campus on First-year Move-in Day

False AC Alerts warning of a possible active shooter on campus were sent out on the afternoon of Aug. 26, first-year move-in day, inciting panic across the college community. The incident was caused by one of the college’s software vendors conducting maintenance on their system.

College Announces Least Restrictive Covid Protocols Yet for Fall Semester

On Aug. 5, the college released its Covid-19 protocols for the fall semester. The protocols outlined a number of significant changes from previous semesters, including the end of surveillance testing and the adoption of an isolation-in-place policy.

New Faculty Welcome Dinner Becomes Super-spreader Event

An Aug. 23 faculty dinner hosting about 60 people at the Inn at Boltwood led to about 25 faculty and staff — most of whom were faculty members — testing positive for Covid following the event. Several professors had to teach remotely or cancel class the first week due to contracting Covid.

College Files Amicus Brief in Harvard, UNC Supreme Court Affirmative Action Cases

The college filed an amicus curiae brief on Aug. 1 in support of Harvard College and the University of North Carolina in the upcoming Supreme Court cases challenging their use of race-conscious admissions practices. The brief was coordinated by the college and signed by 32 peer institutions.

What To Know About Biden’s Student Debt Cancellation

The Biden-Harris Administration recently announced that it would be forgiving up to $20,000 of student debt for current and former students. Here’s what that might mean for Amherst students.

Mammoths Moments in Miniature: May 10 to Sept. 6

Mammoth Moments in Miniature provides quick updates on notable campus news that occurred since the last issue. In this week’s installment: A.J. Hasting’s closed, free printing, Workday, and more.

Campus Police Log: May 10 to Sept. 6

The latest installment of the Police Log, from May 10 to Sept. 6, can be found here.

False Active Shooter Alerts Disrupt First Day of Orientation

Multiple false AC Alerts warning of a possible active shooter on campus were sent out early Friday afternoon, inciting panic across the college community. The false alerts were due to a technical error on the part of one of the software companies that support the alert system.

Ryan Yu: Living Life on His Own Terms

While Ryan Yu has made a lasting impact on The Student, what’s most notable about him is his unwavering commitment to finding his own path.

Troy Colleran: Quietly Setting the Standard

Despite a humble, understated presence, Troy Colleran has made an enormous impact in his two key areas: on the track and field team and in the chemistry lab.

Shikha Jha: Leading Through Dance

In her four years at the college, Shikha Jha has played crucial leadership roles for both Dance and Step at Amherst College and the Asian Students Association. Along the way, she’s found time to rethink her goals and find a path that’s right for her.

Kalidas Shanti: Finding Joy and Meaning Through Writing

Despite his understated presentation, those who know Kalidas Shanti know him to be a deep thinker and compassionate friend who has spent his time at Amherst exploring a wide range of interests.

Anna Smith: An Archivist’s Journey Through Amherst

Through exploring the Amherst archives, Anna Smith has uncovered Amherst’s deep rooted connection with slavery.

Sophie Koh: A Drive for Inclusion in Intellectual Spaces

Sophie Koh pursues her intellectual passions with a higher purpose. Her commitment to cultivating inclusivity encourages us all to contribute to meaningful change in the spaces we occupy.

Sage Innerarity: Creating Community and Championing Change

Throughout her time at Amherst, Sage Innerarity has made a name for herself through her ability to bring people together and raise the voices of others.

Teo Ruskov: From Religion Major to World Traveler

Teo Ruskov conveys passion and dedication for religious studies, earning the prestigious Watson Fellowship and winning multiple accolades for his thesis on Buddhism.

Ella Peterson: A Community Builder With a Love for Democracy

Ella Peterson has used her time at Amherst to avidly pursue her interest in the political sphere, effecting positive change and building community along the way.

Jorge Rodriguez: Learning and Teaching “the Art of Living”

Prioritizing self-discipline, service, and faith, Jorge Rodriguez has all the necessary tools to achieve his ultimate goal: living a beautiful life.

Angelina Han: AAS President and Extracurricular Extraordinaire

A double major in geology and economics, former AAS president Angelina Han had a busy four years at Amherst. Her commitments to public service and helping others shine through everything she says and does.

Scott Brasesco: Seeking an Understanding of Humanity

Scott Brasesco has always had a passion for the history of humanity and society. At Amherst, he has pursued that passion in every way he could — always with unending calm, constant brilliance, and a mug of tea to start the morning.

Juanita Jaramillo: A Track Star With a Passion for Policy

Juanita Jaramillo came to Amherst as a track recruit, but her time on campus has been about far more: She found a passion for policy-related research, which she will pursue as a predoctoral fellow at MIT.

Arzoo Rajpar: Crafting Art, Empowerment, and Agency

Arzoo Rajpar has created intersections between her passion for design and her interest in creating community-based solutions, uplifting herself and those around her.

Abner Aldarondo: Creating a Community of Love Through Culture

With an abundant amount of charisma, Abner Aldarondo invites love into his life constantly, whether it is in his academic, artistic, or community-based work.

Lauren Kisare: Critical Language Scholar With a Future in Publishing

A natural community builder, Lauren Kisare’s time at Amherst has seen her excel at everything from journalism to studying Korean — all while bringing joy to the people around her.

Cole Graber-Mitchell: Making His Voice Heard

Cole Graber-Mitchell is committed to civic engagement, whether it be as an AAS senator or an opinion columnist. The Marshall Scholar’s world revolves around three principles: persistence, community, and joy.

Jiajia Zhang: Teaching, Telling, Painting Asian American History

While Jiajia Zhang is on her way to becoming an Asian American studies scholar, her life has encompassed so much more: art, activism, and even social media management for a Belarusian rock band.

Alexis Scalese: Asserting Indigeneity at Amherst and Beyond

A dedicated researcher, thoughtful friend, and driven activist, Alexis Scalese has been an instrumental force in the creation of an assertive Native American presence on campus.

German Giammattei: A Legend on and off the Pitch

Though perhaps the best player in the history of Amherst men’s soccer, German Giammattei is better described as a humble teammate and a phenomenal friend.

Joelle Crichlow: Leading the Charge to Make Change

Guided by a passion for changemaking and a commitment to making Amherst a better place, Joelle Crichlow has done just that — and she will continue to effect positive change wherever her path takes her.

Audrey Rosevear: Leaping to Topology, Theater, and Transitioning

Audrey Rosevear has spent her time at Amherst devoted to her passions of mathematics and theater, all while embarking on a personal journey to come out as trans.

Sebastian Son: Storytelling Through Song

Whether he’s performing onstage, writing behind the scenes, or simply being a steadfast friend, Sebastian Son has made innumerable contributions to the Amherst arts community.

Rebecca Picciotto: Stewarding Stories With Care and Perspective

Rebecca Picciotto has a deep passion for connecting with people through journalism. But she also understands just where journalism can fall short.

Students Rally for Reproductive Justice Following Leaked Supreme Court Opinion

At 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 5, approximately 400 Amherst college students participated in a class walkout and protest on the Amherst Town Common in response to a leaked Supreme Court draft opinion poised to overturn the 1973 landmark decision Roe v. Wade.

College Announces Changes to Covid Protocols Amid Rising Cases

Over a series of emails throughout the past week, the college announced heightened Covid protocols following a sharp uptick in cases. Changes include more restrictive masking policies and the implementation of in-place isolation.

Classes of 2022 and 2020 To Celebrate Commencement on Campus

Commencement will be held for the Class of 2022 on Sunday, May 29, following two years of drastically altered celebrations due to Covid. Members of the Class of 2020, originally only able to attend a virtual graduation ceremony, will also have an on-campus Commencement on Saturday, June 11.

Accessing Amherst: Stories of Current Admissions Pathways

In the second installment of this series, The Student explores how diversity initiatives have constructed today’s student body. Several student stories shine light on the way that students and their experiences with the college process relate to the institution’s changes in access over time.

Sexual Violence at Amherst: A History and Legacy

In this archival and interview-based piece, The Student traces the history and legacy of sexual misconduct at Amherst, from the college’s move to a co-ed model in the 1970s to the present day.