JFK 100: Of Poetry and Politics

“It is in moments like these that the role for the liberal arts is critical,” said U.S. Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy III, speaking outside Frost Library on Saturday. The event marked both the 100th anniversary of the birth of President John F. Kennedy (great-uncle of the congressman) and the 54th anniversary of his 1963 address on campus.  

Of Monsters and Memorials

A visiting expert spoke to students in Natasha Staller’s art history course “Witches, Vampires and Other Monsters” about how and why the living remember the dead.

Memories of Richard Wilbur ’42

A special salon this week at Amherst’s Center for Humanistic Inquiry celebrated the life and poetry of Richard Wilbur ’42, who died earlier this month at age 96. This video from the event features poems, songs, images, memories and conversation.

November Arts Preview

The Common launches its 14th issue. The Russian Center Art Gallery opens a new exhibition. The Department of Theater and Dance premieres its fall show, a contemporary adaptation of Ibsen’s Peer Gynt. Learn about these campus happenings and more in our arts preview.

Professor Speaks on Totalitarianism

Every year Amherst sees an influx of visiting faculty members who add their unique perspectives to the important discussions that take place inside—and outside—classrooms and labs. This semester, journalist Masha Gessen is one such professor. Last week she spoke to WBEZ in Chicago about Russian totalitarianism.

Get Ready for the Biggest Little Game

Amherst and Williams competed in their first two football games in 1884. Our schools have played the “Biggest Little Game in America” ever since. For as long as technology has allowed, alumni in faraway places have gathered to connect with one another while tuning into the game via radio, cable or satellite. Take a visual look back at the friendly rivalry, and find a viewing gathering near you for this year’s match-up on Saturday, Nov. 11. 

Classes of 2003-2018, Let’s Beat Williams!

The competition between the two colleges for the most young alumni donors before Nov. 13 is back, and Amherst is in the lead with 463 gifts to Williams’ 340 gifts. Can we beat Williams for the second year in a row? Make your gift today.

Call for Honorary Degree Nominations

The Committee on Honorary Degrees invites your nominations of candidates to be awarded honorary doctorates at Commencement. Submit a Nomination