The View From Here

Each fall brings with it a renewed sense of purpose on Oyaron Hill, a season of fresh beginnings, bold ideas and forward momentum. That spirit is reflected in this issue of The Wick, which celebrates the theme of reimagining, innovating and evolving, highlighting the ways Hartwick is transforming through creativity, collaboration and an enduring commitment to our students’ success.

This sense of renewal is especially meaningful as we celebrate the appointment of Laurel Bongiorno as Hartwick’s 13th president. Laurel, who currently serves as our vice president for academic affairs and provost, has been an extraordinary partner and trusted colleague whose leadership, integrity and deep understanding of the Hartwick experience make her exactly the right person to guide the College forward. Her appointment, effective July 1, 2026, reflects the Board of Trustees’ confidence and speaks directly to the forward-looking spirit that defines Hartwick.

Across campus, that same energy is palpable everywhere. The expansion of academic opportunities, including the launch of eight new majors and minors, and the creative use of spaces such as the WICKed Esports Center, demonstrate how Hartwick continues to redefine what it means to offer a modern, purposeful education. Together, we are building a future defined by balance, imagination and progress.

Within these pages, you will discover alumni, faculty and staff whose work, research and teaching illuminate new frontiers—from the growing role of artificial intelligence across disciplines to creative approaches that deepen student engagement.

You will read about the continued evolution of Hartwick athletics, including the addition of softball, men’s volleyball and women’s flag football, and the launch of a sport management major that connects the classroom to one of today’s most dynamic industries. Voices from across generations, from our retiring and beloved staff member Elizabeth “Betty” Powell ’82 to alumni and student-athletes who have shaped or been shaped by Hartwick athletics, remind us that innovation can also honor tradition.

Innovation at Hartwick takes many forms. You will meet students pursuing international internships through inventive new funding models; faculty developing programs that respond to workforce needs, such as our new physical education teacher education major; and alumni charting entrepreneurial paths that influence industries and communities. Collectively, these stories affirm that Hartwick’s progress is not simply about keeping pace. It is about leading with integrity and intent.

As I look ahead to the seasons of transition and renewal at Hartwick, I could not be prouder of what we are building together. This is a decisive moment for our College. Like many small institutions, we are navigating real challenges. What distinguishes

Hartwick is our willingness to face them with boldness and belief. We have built a plan that is working, one grounded in focused enrollment growth, fiscal sustainability and extraordinary philanthropy.

This is a great and historic institution and the work we share is to ensure our rightful place among the nation’s leading liberal arts colleges. To sustain this momentum, we need the continued confidence, advocacy and investment of those who believe in Hartwick and the power of its mission. I invite you to join us in this effort, to help us move boldly forward and ensure that the best of Hartwick is still to come.

Every good wish and go, Wick!

Jim Mullen
President