Join us in person or online via Zoom for a fireside chat with Eric Marcus ’80, the 2026 AAVC Spirit of Vassar Award recipient, in conversation with Miriam Cohen, Evalyn Clark Professor Emerita of History. From his days as a self-described “secret hot mess” urban studies major at Vassar to his work documenting LGBTQ+ history through the Making Gay History podcast and exploring suicide loss in his book Why Suicide?, Eric will reflect on how recording and sharing human stories can build resilience, foster belonging, and help heal communities—and, ultimately, himself.

Sponsored by Alumnae/i Association of Vassar College (AAVC), Advancement, the LGBTQ+ Center, the History Department, and H.O.M.E. (Residential Life’s Holistic Residential Curriculum), this event is free and open to the public.

Individuals with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Office of Campus Activities at (845) 437-5370 in advance of the event.