This article is featured in the 2024 Homecoming Special Issue.
Autumn is the singular time of year in New Hampshire when foliage and fall scenery are abundant and the weather feels just right. In Hanover, each fall term brings plenty to look forward to, whether it’s an incoming class of students injecting new energy into campus, “Halloweekend” — an opportunity for students to transform for a night or two — or anything in between. This fall, however, is particularly unique: campus is experiencing profound change, from construction of residence halls and arts facilities to an election looming on the horizon. This fall marks a transitional moment for Dartmouth. These changes are why we deemed “New Leaf” an apt theme for this year’s Homecoming Special Issue.
Many new students are truly turning over a new leaf and venturing into uncharted territory. The brisk fall evenings in Hanover may take some first-years by surprise, prompting them to invest in an entirely new wardrobe. In this issue, we interview students who have already pulled out their winter coats and survey others on their costumes for Halloweekend. Entering into a rapidly evolving campus, freshmen also share their experiences with campus construction.
We examine Hanover more broadly as it, too, turns over a new leaf: from students discovering new passions in digital art to upcoming changes on the Board of Trustees. There are even changes to explore on Main Street, a mainstay of Dartmouth life. We shine a spotlight on the efforts campus petitions are making to turn the page in our College’s history, while also gauging the freshmen class’s views on campus activism.
While we aim to capture the many changes already underway, we sincerely hope that highlighting these developments inspires current students to turn over a new leaf — both in their own lives and for the College on the Hill.
With love,
Aidan, Aubrey and Ishan
