Current News for Skidmore College: A Comprehensive Overview

As of December 2024, Skidmore College, located in Saratoga Springs, New York, is making headlines for various reasons, including sports events, faculty contract disputes, and community engagement initiatives. This report summarizes the latest developments and news surrounding the college, highlighting key events and issues that are currently shaping the campus environment.

Recent Sports Events

One of the most notable recent events was the men's basketball team's match against Vassar College, where they faced a tough defeat with a score of 74-82. The game, held at the Williamson Sports Center, showcased a dramatic closing run by Vassar, which ultimately led to Skidmore's loss. This match is part of the Stable Game conference, and the team will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming games.

In addition to basketball, the field hockey team has also been in the spotlight. Standouts Kayla Hassett and CC Wetter earned prestigious spots on the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) Division III All-Region First Team for Region III, capping off a stellar season for the Thoroughbreds.

Faculty Contract Disputes

A significant issue currently affecting Skidmore College is the ongoing contract dispute involving non-tenured faculty members. On December 13, 2024, approximately 190 non-tenured faculty members rallied at the college’s Case Campus Center to demand fair negotiations for their first contract. The group, known as Skidmore Faculty Forward, is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and is advocating for better pay and working conditions.

The faculty's demands have been met with resistance from the college administration, leading to accusations of stalling on several core demands. This situation has garnered attention from various news outlets, highlighting the growing tensions between faculty and administration.

Key Articles on the Faculty Rally:

• WNYT NewsChannel 13 reported on the faculty's demands for a fair contract, emphasizing the need for negotiations to move forward.
• The Daily Gazette covered the rally, noting that faculty members are pushing for increased pay and limitations on the hiring of non-tenured faculty with terminal contracts.

Community Engagement Initiatives

In a positive light, Skidmore College has also been active in community engagement. The Skidmore Cares initiative recently raised over $30,000 and collected nearly 5,000 items for local nonprofits, thanks to a match from Trustee James Zankel and contributions from the Skidmore community. This initiative reflects the college's commitment to supporting local organizations and fostering a spirit of giving among students and faculty.

Cultural and Academic Developments

The college continues to be a hub for cultural and academic activities. The Tang Teaching Museum and the Arthur Zankel Music Center have received funding from the New York State Council on the Arts, which will support various programs and initiatives in the arts. This funding is crucial for maintaining the college's reputation as a leader in liberal arts education and cultural engagement.

Additionally, Scope Magazine, the college's publication, recently featured discussions on the implications of recent elections and the future of democracy, showcasing the college's commitment to engaging with contemporary issues.

Upcoming Events

Looking ahead, Skidmore College is preparing for several upcoming events, including the final two home games of the basketball season. The Thoroughbreds will host Hobart and William Smith Colleges, with the women's game scheduled for 5:30 PM and the men's game at 7:30 PM. These games are expected to draw significant attendance and support from the Skidmore community.

In summary, Skidmore College is currently navigating a complex landscape of sports, faculty negotiations, and community engagement. The college's commitment to excellence in education and community service remains strong, even as it faces challenges. The ongoing faculty contract dispute highlights the need for dialogue and resolution, while the college's sports teams continue to strive for success on the court. As the semester progresses, the Skidmore community will undoubtedly remain engaged and active in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.

For more detailed updates and news, you can visit the official Skidmore College News page or follow local news outlets covering the college's activities.