A Day of Public Service for Each Employee

December 6, 2002

A staff member recently proposed an idea that the college give each employee a paid workday to engage in community service. Senior Staff discussed the proposal, and we decided to put it into effect to demonstrate our commitment to public service. Beginning on a pilot basis, on January 1, 2003, each employee may use one regular workday per year (paid by the college) to volunteer in a community activity or event in Northampton or the city or town in which he/she lives.

Your community service day must be scheduled and approved in advance by your supervisor.

I hope by this program, we can better fulfill Sophia Smith's vision of Smith College as part of the practical life of the town. Volunteer service enriches both the community and us as individuals, extending our knowledge of culture and experiences different from our own and enhancing our sense of purpose.

Carol Christ