Some members of the Vassar community more than 7,000 miles from the campus have united to help the college—and the community—combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vassar knows how to stay connected in these challenging times. Students and alums are organizing virtual parties on FaceTime and workouts with fellow athletes on Zoom, and some are singing together via an a cappella app.

During her inaugural “Virtual Tea with PB” event, President Bradley announced that the college has made a commitment to the Class of 2020 to throw a big celebration on campus to celebrate their graduation as soon as it is safe to do so.

During Women’s History Month, Vassar College salutes Rear Admiral Grace Murray Hopper ’28—alumna, professor emerita, and computer science pioneer. Hopper’s recent posthumous honors include the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the naming of Grace Murray Hopper College at Yale University.

Matthew Vassar emphasized the importance of athletics and physical education when he founded the college, and its students, coaches and administrators have followed his lead ever since.

In celebration of Black History Month, five Vassar professors discuss some of the individuals who made an impact on them.