Life on the Hill

In this episode we hear from Eric Santomauro-Stenzel '24, Editor of The Monitor, President and founder of Sunrise Movement Hamilton College, former President and Vice President of Student Assembly. Some of the topics discussed include Eric's evolution as a student leader and activist, lessons he has learned, his hopes for the College, and his advice to students about how to make the most o...

In this episode we hear from Monica Inzer, Vice President for Enrollment Management. Some of the topics discussed include how she fell into admission and financial aid work, the story of Hamilton becoming need blind, how her and President Stewart's identities as first-generation college students impacted Hamilton's admission priorities, and she reflects on all of the people for whom she&#3...

In this episode we hear from Chloe Maldonado, member of the Class of 2023 and Program Coordinator for the Office or Student Activities. Some of the topics discussed include the diverse experiences Chloe sought as a Hamilton student, her transition to a professional position on campus, her goal of creating the best year of programming ever, and her love of pie. Released on March 31, 2024

In this episode we hear from Dr. Omobonike Odegbami (Dr. Bonike), Director of International Student Services. Some of the topics discussed include what brought her to Hamilton, her time serving as a campus president, the role of food in facilitating belonging, and her "Yes Philosophy." Released on March 12, 2024

In this episode we hear from Dr. Jeffrey S. Bailey, Nurse Practitioner. Some of the topics discussed include Dr. Bailey's journey to his field of expertise and College Hill, the importance of inclusive care practices, tips for getting healthy and staying healthy, as well as why we should prioritize sleep. Released on January 22, 2024

In this episode we hear from Ariel Adams, Director of Student Activities. Some of the topics discussed include Ariel's experience transitioning to a small town from a major city, ways to engage this semester, the many new faces in Student Activities, and tips to make the most of the college experience. Released on January 8, 2024

In this episode we hear from a number of our newest community members and some special guests talking about transition and the start of an academic year.  Some topics include orientation trips, making new friends, being nervous, the importance of a routine, and the want for connection and support from one another. Released on August 29, 2022

In this episode we hear from Ruthie Schmidt and Julian Perricone, members of the Class of 2020.  Some of the topics discussed include how they chose Hamilton, reflections on their study abroad experiences, an acknowledgement that they are still figuring things out, and much more.  This episode was recorded on February 28, 2020, but not launched until much later out of consideration for h...

In this episode we hear from Peaches Valdes, Dean of Admission, Stephanie Andrade '26, Joe Buttarazzi '26, and Quentin Messer '26. Some of the topics discussed include how they approached their college search process, why they chose Hamilton, what they are looking forward to and nervous about coming to the Hill, and the importance of being authentic and trusting yourself when looking for a college...

In this episode we hear Dayna Campbell, Assistant Director for Community Standards, Rebecca Ingber '22, Diego Inzunza '25, and Daniel Lipson '25. Some of the topics what brought each of them to the Hill, how they are changing Hamilton's approach to bystander intervention, the idea of good people vs. bad people, and the importance of self-reflection. Released on March 28, 2022

In this episode we will hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include what to expect at the start of the semester, the importance of looking out for one another, navigating winter, and welcoming our January Admits. Released on January 27, 2022

In this episode we hear from Dave Bolger, member of the Class of 1999 and creator and host of the Had I Known podcast (https://hadiknown.buzzsprout.com/).  Some of the topics discussed include what brought him to Hamilton, his experience being on campus just after the 1995 decision to close down fraternity houses, why he created the Had I Known podcast, imposter syndrome, and the value of rec...

In this special episode as part of our celebration of National First Generation Week we hear from Maria Genao-Homs, Associate Dean of Diversity and Inclusion, as well as other members of the Hamilton community who identify as first generation.  Some topics discussed include how the College defines first generation college students and other definitions, what the experiences of first gen stude...

In this episode we hear from Hannah Stubley '12 and Kevin Alexander '13, two of our three ALEX Advisors.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought each of them to Hamilton, what brought them back to Hamilton, the role of an ALEX Advisor, Imposter Syndrome, and the importance of getting off the Hill. Released on October 18, 2021

In this episode we hear from Jon Hind '80, Athletic Director and Professor of Physical Education.  Jon shares the three different circumstances that brought him to Hamilton starting as an undergraduate, being a student when Hamilton and Kirkland Colleges combined, and the roles and responsibilities of varsity athletes.  He also discusses the wide range of programs and services athletics...

In this episode we hear from Terry Martinez, Vice President and Dean of Students and Emma Moteyunas, Student Support Services Case Manager.  Dean Martinez reflects on last year and looks ahead to the start of a new year, discusses the importance of giving grace to others, and invites the community to come together.  Emma shares the story of what brought her to Hamilton, reflects on her o...

In this episode we hear from Aaron Ray, the Director of Opportunity Programs.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought him here, following the legacy of Phyllis Breland, what is opportunity programs at Hamilton and beyond, his plans and hopes for OP, and the importance of staying open to opportunities and experiences. Released on April 18, 2021

In this episode we hear from Savannah Kelly '21 and Gianni Hill '21.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought each of them to Hamilton, the Posse Foundation, a COVID senior year, they reflect on their experiences while at Hamilton, and some pro tips as seniors. Released on March 22, 2021

In this episode we hear from Dean of Engaged Education, Kathy Wolfe.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought her to Hamilton, she outlines what the ALEX initiative is, discusses the importance of reflection, and shares how equity and access are at the center of ALEX.  Released on March 2, 2021

In this episode we hear from Assistant Director of Student Activities, Kaity Stewart.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought her to Hamilton, how she decided to go into the field of Student Affairs, the benefits of getting involved, ways to keep balance, and some of the fun opportunities ahead including highlights of Feb Fest events. Released on January 24, 2021

In this episode we hear from Director of Orientation and First Year Programs, Tessa Chefalo.  Some of the topics discussed include her tips for approaching a transition, how she and her student leaders have prepared to welcome the newest students to campus this semester, how returning students still in search of their people can make new friends, and the importance of vulnerability. Released...

In this episode we hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include her experience as one of the faces of the College's COVID response, what have been priorities when making decisions as a College, a look ahead at changes for the Spring semester, and some things she for which she is grateful. Released on November 24, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Sandro Mariani, member of the Class of 2021, American Studies major, and a Captain of the men's swimming and diving team.  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton as a transfer, advice for the new students joining us in January, his take on how the fall semester has gone, his community agreement violation, and some opportunities for students...

In this episode we will hear from Dr. David Walden, Director of the Counseling Center and Lecturer in Psychology.  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton, recent history and future goals for the Counseling Center, coping strategies and things to consider around anxiety and stress management, and the importance of being kind to yourself. Released on October 28, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Lizabeth Doherty, Coordinator of Career Services at Mohawk Valley Community College and, for the context of this conversation, the partner of the host, Travis Hill.  Liz and Travis discuss Travis being the first person to test positive for COVID 19 at Hamilton in the fall of 2020 and their experiences as a family as a result.  Topics discussed include th...