Updates

March 18, 2026

The Co-Chairs of the Presidential Search Committee shared the following message with the community on March 18, 2026:

We write to follow up on Board Chair Harold “Koof” Kalkstein ’78’s recent announcement of the search for the College’s 16th president. We are honored to co-chair this effort and grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated members of the Swarthmore community. Read the full message.

FEBRUARY 24, 2026

The Chair of the Board of Managers shared the following message with the community on February 24, 2026:

Earlier today, President Valerie Smith announced her decision to conclude her time as Swarthmore’s president at the end of the 2026-27 academic year. While we will have many occasions to celebrate Val and her extraordinary contributions to the College, I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the Board of Managers to express my deep gratitude for her remarkable service throughout her tenure. In every setting, she has modeled integrity, intellectual curiosity, compassion, and empathy, all in service of our shared mission. Swarthmore is forever stronger thanks to Val’s leadership. Read the full message.