Letter From the Chair

As I reflect on this past year, I celebrate the achievements and collaboration that have strengthened our community. Like many institutions, HMC has navigated challenges, including protests about ongoing global conflict and discussions about partnerships with defense companies. We are committed to inclusive dialogue that reflects the diverse perspectives of our community. These conversations, along with our strategic planning process, will ensure the College continues to uphold its mission and values.

This academic year marked the beginning of President Harriet Nembhard’s tenure, culminating in her formal inauguration last spring. The Presidential Transition Task Force has been pivotal in creating opportunities for President Nembhard to connect with the campus community. The Community Connections initiative has fostered dialogue around aspirations and priorities that are informing the College’s strategic plan. These efforts have underscored the importance of open communication, collaboration and shared values as we chart a course for the future.

Strategic Planning and Comprehensive Campaign

Developing a robust strategic plan is a key priority, with broad input from the community serving as its foundation. The board of trustees and task force are engaging deeply with this process, ensuring alignment with the College’s mission. We are partnering with a well-known consulting firm to help envision a campaign that will identify critical pillars based on strategic planning outcomes, guiding us toward ambitious goals that will enhance the College’s impact and sustainability.

Making an Impact

Harvey Mudd faculty, which increased by nine for academic year 2023–2024, continued making advances in their fields and sharing their progress on campus and beyond. Among the media highlights were stories about sociologist Alfred Flores and mathematician Francis Su whose recent books received accolades, Darryl Wright on issues of abortion and IVF, Gordon Krauss for helping shape Waterloo Engineering’s Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship Fellowship Program, biology professor Catherine McFadden for her work on soft corals and bioluminescence, and Talithia Williams for her work in statistics and inclusive education. Students, working in tandem with faculty members, also brought recognition to the College through their varied endeavors. Harvey Mudd students developing a drone that can search for metal landmines were featured by several media outlets, and senior Nathan Hasegawa celebrated his second New York Times crossword puzzle.

The College made progress on several initiatives, including the Entrepreneurship Studio pilot program; our first Innovation Accelerator, designed to provide significant funding for faculty and staff initiatives aligned with the strategic plan; and the Hixon Center for Climate and the Environment. The Hixon Center doubled its joint hires (from two to four), created five new climate courses in as many disciplines, passed into existence two new climate joint majors, renovated its physical space in the Olin building and hosted a first-ever conference on undergraduate climate education. This growth reflects the College’s commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges presented by our changing climate.

The board advanced its DEI goals, including work to diversify its membership, supporting the College’s efforts to lead the national discussion regarding DEI in STEM and ensuring adequate resources for programming. This commitment remains integral to creating a culture of access, inclusion and belonging, as well as fostering a diverse community that thrives together.

Challenges and Momentum

As we gear up for strategic initiatives, campaign planning and changes at the national level, the Board is energized by the passion and dedication of our students, faculty, staff and alumni. Together, we will ensure Harvey Mudd College remains a leader in liberal arts education and a beacon for innovation, diversity and excellence. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my gratitude to all who contribute to the success of Harvey Mudd College. We look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead and to working collaboratively to achieve our shared vision for the future.