Twenty years of Skidmore Cares: The heart of a giving community

Marc Conner 
Skidmore College president 

Since joining Skidmore in 2020, President Conner has witnessed how Skidmore Cares expresses the College’s culture of compassion. 

“As we celebrate 20 years of Skidmore Cares, I’m struck by how much this initiative is such a meaningful and unifying campus tradition. Each year, it’s inspiring to see students, faculty, staff, retirees, and families come together with a common purpose: to support our neighbors and strengthen our connection to the Saratoga community in which we live and work," said Conner. 

“The impact of Skidmore Cares extends far beyond the thousands of donated items and dollars. It nurtures a spirit of generosity, thanksgiving, and compassion, giving us a moment to pause, recognize the challenges our neighbors face, and reaffirm our commitment to one another. For two decades, that sense of responsibility and care has shaped our community — and it remains a cherished and defining part of the Skidmore experience," Conner added. 

Marie Glotzbach 
Founder of Skidmore Cares, lecturer in theater, and wife to President Emeritus Philip A. Glotzbach 

Two decades later, Marie Glotzbach is grateful to see how the effort has grown through collaboration across campus and beyond. 

“As the Skidmore Cares effort and campus-wide energy grew, it became a joyful and collaborative program. Through the efforts and caring of so many, this tradition has become a significant part of holiday giving in the Saratoga area. It is especially gratifying to know that families and organizations in need continue to benefit from the generosity of the Skidmore community," said Glotzbach. 

Skidmore employee Thomas Marcullus lends a hand during Skidmore Cares at the Scribner Carriage House in 2025.

Barbara Reyes-Conner  
Wife of Skidmore President Marc Conner 

For Barbara Reyes-Conner, Skidmore Cares is defined by simple moments: dedicated volunteers, growing donations, and heartfelt gratitude. 

“Spending time with volunteers who generously unload, sort, and count each item has shown me how proud they are of our campus community. And those who deliver the items see firsthand the joy and appreciation from the agencies who receive them. Knowing we can help, even a little, makes it all worthwhile," remarked Reyes-Conner. 

Michelle Hubbs 
Associate director of civic engagement 

As a founding member of the planning team, Hubbs continues to be inspired by the energy Skidmore Cares brings to campus and the way it helps people feel connected — both to Skidmore and to one another. 

 “I think being part of something so large and impactful gives people a real sense of pride, and Skidmore Cares offers an easy way for everyone to contribute. Every student who steps onto the stage during Skidmania is supporting Skidmore Cares in their own creative way. Anyone can be part of this effort — and the impact on our recipient agencies is both deep and meaningful. I can’t imagine not being part of this wonderful effort," Hubbs said. 

Megan Buchanan    
Senior associate director of athletics 

For Buchanan, Skidmore Cares offered one of her earliest glimpses into the heart of the Skidmore community.  

“Skidmore Cares is one of the traditions that reminds me why our community is so special. Each year, I’m inspired by the way colleagues, students, and departments come together with genuine generosity and a shared purpose. It’s a chance to support local organizations that make a real difference, and to show through action how much we care about the community around us," Buchanan reflected. 

Skidmore student-athletes load a truck with holiday donations for the local community in 2019.

Skidmore Athletics  

Through the years, Skidmore Athletics has been a driving force in sustaining and elevating Skidmore Cares. Student-athletes have long played a crucial role in delivering donations. 

Kyle Lancto, associate director of athletic communications and marketing, has witnessed firsthand the commitment and enthusiasm student-athletes bring to the tradition. 

“Seeing Skidmore Cares reach its 20th year is a testament to the compassion of this community. Our student-athletes, coaches, and staff have always been at the forefront of that work, helping ensure vital resources reach families and organizations in Saratoga County. The impact is real, and it has shaped generations of Thoroughbreds who understand that being part of Athletics also means being part of something larger than themselves," Lancto said. 

The Benef-Action Club  

Benef-Action, Skidmore’s only Student Government Association-sponsored student volunteer club, works year-round to connect students with nonprofits across Saratoga. According to club member Shelby Gellman ’27, the club’s involvement strengthens this mission by inspiring student engagement and encouraging a spirit of generosity on campus.

“Our club's mission is centered on helping those in need, and Skidmore Cares reminds us to think of those less fortunate during a season of giving and receiving. Skidmore Cares resonates deeply with students because it allows us to give back to the warm, welcoming community we call home during the school year, even if what we can offer is simply our time," Gellman said.