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Creative Thought Matters

What makes Skidmore different? It starts with our motto, Creative Thought Matters. Nowhere else will you find a college community that so boldly declares and passionately believes that the most important skill you can learn, hone, and apply is creative thinking.

Why creativity? 

Because it's the lifeblood of a meaningful education. It powers how you think, communicate, and lead in the arts, sciences, business, the humanities, and every other endeavor. And we don't just say it, we mean it. When you hear "Creative Thought Matters" on our campus, it's an invitation to think boldly, explore widely, and confidently participate in the creative process.  

When Creative Thought Matters ...

  • You’re empowered to combine ideas across disciplines — like physics and music, or business and psychology — and chart a path that’s uniquely your own.
  • You’re encouraged to push boundaries, ask big questions, and follow your curiosity to the intersections of science, art, and the humanities.
  • You’re supported by a community that values process over perfection, because exploration is the point, and failure is part of growth.
  • You’re welcomed into a campus culture built on inclusion because diverse perspectives are essential to the creative process.

You're prepared for now ... and later

There isn’t a single profession without challenge or change on the horizon. The individuals destined to excel in that future will be those who can confidently navigate different perspectives, bridge disciplines, and suggest creative solutions. So that's where we start. See how our approach expands your academic, personal, and professional potential. 

Creative Thought Works

Three students in the Schupf Family IdeaLab engaged in a creative discussion around a colorful tabletop game with custom 3D-printed pieces.

In class

Creative thinking invites you to participate in an interdisciplinary liberal arts experience where mixing and matching your passions and studying across the academic aisle is the norm.
Explore our approach to the liberal arts
Skidmore College President high-fiving a student during a campus welcome event, surrounded by students holding handmade cardboard signs including one that reads “Scoopies Wanted.”

Across campus

Creative thinking is about seeing from every angle. In a kind and inclusive community, it sparks curiosity and connections, deepens understanding, and makes everyone feel at home.
Read student perspectives
Three professionals collaborating over architectural blueprints in a bright office with large windows overlooking a city skyline.

After graduation

Creative thinking challenges you to go further. The result? Strong resumes, distinctive portfolios, and the confidence to show the world what you bring to the table.
Read alumni success stories
Three people standing on a wooden path in a forest, operating a drone with a remote control and tablet, engaged in a field research or GIS mapping activity.

Creative research

Skidmore students are using GIS mapping and scientific research to creatively track and help manage the spread of the invasive spongy moth.

Watch the video

Creative Thought, Current Matters

From science and social issues to pop culture and human behavior, our faculty bring fresh ideas to the classroom in creative ways.
Painting of the 1787 signing of the U.S. Constitution, showing George Washington standing at center and delegates seated and gathered around in Independence Hall.

Constitutional questions

What would it take to rewrite the U.S. Constitution — and should we? Professor of Political Science Beau Breslin explores how five generations might reimagine America’s foundational law, inspired by research and coursework with his students.
Watch the video
Woman standing in an ancient stone room with partially restored Mayan murals on the wall behind them, illuminated by natural light from an opening above.

Ancient storytelling

What’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to Indiana Jones? Professor of Anthropology Heather Hurst ’97 shares how real-world fieldwork stacks up against Hollywood adventure — and why the truth is even more fascinating.
Watch the video
Stylized illustration of a sword-wielding Link from Zelda standing on a mountain peak, gazing over a vast, fantasy landscape at sunrise with castles, clouds, and distant mountains.

A hero's journey

What makes The Legend of Zelda so endlessly captivating? Associate Professor of Classics Dan Curley explores how this blockbuster game taps into the ancient archetype of the hero’s journey — and why it still matters today.
Watch the video

Curious?

There's so much more to this creative process.
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