On Sunday, May 21 Paul Smiths’ College held its commencement ceremony celebrating more than 100 students who completed their academic degrees. Together, faculty, staff, students, and their families celebrated the immense accomplishments of the class of 2023.

Paul Smith’s College, known as the College of the Adirondacks because it is the only four-year institution of higher education in the Adirondack Park is surrounded by 14,000 acres of pristine lakes, trails, and natural beauty. Led by faculty ranked number one in the region for undergraduate teaching, PSC has a strong foundation of hands-on learning that prepare students for successful careers.

“Our journey through college has been unique; we have had the privilege of attending a ‘summer camp’ college that provided us with extraordinary hands-on experiences and a profound connection with nature…Our college has been a haven of learning that extended far beyond the walls of traditional classrooms,” said Charlotte Kline, class speaker and Student Government Association President, in her commencement speech to fellow graduates.  

Paul Smith’s College is a leader in climate education and research, especially in the Adirondacks a message reinforced by the Keynote speaker, Aaron Mair, director of the Adirondack Council’s “Forever Adirondacks” initiative and former president of the Sierra Club, served as Keynote Speaker. Mair said, “This College is a vital asset in wilderness protection education and critical in graduating leaders that can and will preserve the lungs of America like the Adirondacks.”

 Interim President Dan Kelting told graduates, “While your classes have provided you with immense knowledge and expertise in your field, you now have added to your toolbox an entirely new set of personal skills. Take that with you into the world, knowing that when you put your mind and your heart to something, all things are possible.”