September 6, 2023 First-Generation Students Help Others At Saint Mary’s, nearly a third of the Class of 2027 is considered first generation. As the first-year, first-gens arrived on campus last month, a group of established first-generation students—sophomores, juniors, and seniors—helped make sure this new cohort felt welcome and at home. September 6, 2023 New Title IX Officer Announced Saint Mary's hires its first full-time Title IX officer. Elizabeth Baumann, LCSW, has worked at the College since 2019, most recently as the director of student involvement and advocacy. September 1, 2023 Alumna Takes Charge at Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Maureen Loughran ’95 manages the sounds of the world for a living. She believes her experiences in the music program and encouragement to explore new things during her time at Saint Mary’s College were essential for her academic and professional growth. August 31, 2023 All Y’all Are Welcome Here On the first Sunday after their arrival on campus, President Conboy spoke with several first-year students after Mass. In her August letter to the community, she reflects on this conversation, and how the simple phrase "all y'all" embodies the welcoming spirit of Saint Mary's College. August 17, 2023 Kessler Scholar Program Launches at Saint Mary’s The Kessler Scholars have arrived at Saint Mary’s. The inaugural cohort—19 women who are the first in their families to go to college—came to campus as part of a $1 million, five-year grant that will connect the first-generation students with resources and opportunities across campus. August 4, 2023 Alumna Hosts Podcast to Support Mental Wellness A podcast produced by alumna and licensed clinical social worker MJ Murray Vachon ’82 brings her work in support of mental wellness in young adults to new audiences. July 26, 2023 Commencement 2023 The Class of 2023 ended their senior week on May 20 under a cloudy sky and amid unseasonably cold weather that belied the mood of the greatest of all celebrations, Commencement. Before friends, family, and the picturesque Le Mans Hall, President Katie Conboy greeted each graduate and presented them with their hard-earned diplomas. July 25, 2023 Forging the Future of LAFD A year into her role as fire chief for the Los Angeles Fire Department—the first woman in its history—Kristin Crowley ’93 is just getting started. July 25, 2023 Upon Reflection Each year, it is a wonderful gift that over the course of just a few weeks in late spring we have opportunities to look forward and to look back. In this issue of Courier, we reflect on Commencement and Reunion 2023. Through several stories, we also focus on what is forged at Saint Mary’s: knowledge and skills, preparation for careers, deep friendships, and life-long relationships to the College.