In a nod to the College’s Quaker history, note this prescient quote from Elizabeth Gurney Fry. “I believe there is something in the mind, or in the heart, that shows its approbation when we do right,” said Fry, a prison reformer specifically focused on the conditions women faced in prison. “I give myself this advice: Do not fear truth, let it be so contrary to inclination and feeling. Never give up the search after it: And let me take courage, and try from the bottom of my heart to do that which I believe truth dictates, if it leads me to be a Quaker or not.”
“Do not fear truth, let it be so contrary to inclination and feeling. Never give up the search after it.”
—Elizabeth Gurney Fry, 1780-1845
Though she never visited Swarthmore, Fry and College founder Lucretia Mott knew each other. Mott wrote about Fry, and the College has a collection of Fry’s papers. Swarthmore alumni and faculty flow across the pages of this winter issue, offering warmth and inspiration during a time of historic unrest across our country and the world. An exploration of their lives and work includes a dedication to understanding Alzheimer’s disease, learning to celebrate the gifts of aging, building community in the field of education, and the role of women in film.
We also want to welcome readers to a refreshed Bulletin design. We noted comments that the printed magazine’s binding made it difficult to open, and that the print size was hard to read. Partnering with Aegis, a Canadian design company, we implemented new approaches to the layout and the readability and are excited to share this updated, energized format. We hope these stories about alumni dedicated to the search for truth bring you encouragement and a renewed pride in all that is the evolving Swarthmore story.
Kate Campbell
Editor
