Joining Community

Welcome and Congratulations!

My name is Cerri Banks and I am the Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs. I am excited to welcome you, the new transfer students in Spring 2021, to campus. I hope that you are as excited as I am to be a part of the Skidmore community and that you are proud of all that you have accomplished to get to this moment. And what a moment this is! COVID-19 has changed life here and across the globe and I know you have felt the effects of that change in your own world.

You and I have SO much in common. I, too, was an undergraduate transfer student. I started my academic journey and Monroe Community College in Rochester NY and then transferred to Syracuse University. One of the things I appreciated most about my transfer experience is the patience one of my administrators had when I called her EVERY DAY leading up to my transferring. She answered every question and made me feel welcomed.  I am still in touch with her and we laugh about my calls when we talk. 

I want you to know that we are so happy you have joined the Skidmore family. Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns or happy updates.

Everyone at Skidmore is eagerly awaiting and preparing for your arrival and health and safety are the highest priorities. The staff in Facilities is making sure that the campus is beautiful and that the buildings are clean and safe. Proper social distancing signs and markers are in place and cleaning supplies and hand sanitizers are available in the residence halls and other campus spaces. We are depending on you to follow the health and safety guidelines that will allow us to have a successful semester.

The faculty in Academic Affairs are finalizing their syllabi for an exciting spring semester and preparing to teach in a multiple ways including: in person on campus, hybrid, and remotely. In Student Affairs, we are working to make sure that you are able to enter the community, get tested safely, and thrive.

Creative Thought really does matter at Skidmore College and you will find that you can pursue almost any interest you have. We recognize that it is a challenge to join the community midway through the academic year, but we encourage you to explore all of the student groups and activities that are offered.  Many of the groups and events will be meeting virtually at this time, but it is a great way to make connections and we are hoping to have more in person opportunities when it is safe to do so.

Take full advantage of all that is here. Learn to play a new instrument, write for the school paper, visit your professors virtually during office hours, secure a virtual internship, and spend time with people who are different from you. Ask lots of questions and reach out for support early if you find yourself facing challenges. Doing so is an excellent way to make your college experience fun and successful.

Best of luck as you continue to prepare to embark on this exciting journey. I cannot wait to meet you.

Cerri Banks
Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs

Events:

Check  SkidSync  for events happening now and throughout the semester.

 

Contact Information