Dear Students,

I hope your first week of classes was exhilarating and you enjoyed reconnecting with your peers. There is much to anticipate in this academic year to build community and strengthen Wellesley bonds and we hope you have already made new connections that turn into lifelong friendships.  As always, this letter provides important information for all students.

Heat Safety: The heat wave has been challenging and fortunately, looks to be over soon. In the meantime, please take advantage of the cooling spaces in each residence hall. Ask your RA for the location of the cooling space. Though it may be tempting, it is important to observe the posted signs near the lake: swimming is not permitted in the lake. If you wish to take advantage of recreational swimming, check out the pool schedule:

Rec Swim Hours Fall 2023 (while classes are in session):

  • Monday thru Friday: 12:00 noon – 1:30 PM
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (unless there’s a swim meet)

This Sunday is Flower Sunday!  Hosted by The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, we are delighted to share with you one of our most cherished events. Dating back to 1875, Flower Sunday is the oldest tradition at Wellesley College and will be held this Sunday, September 10 at 10:30am in Houghton Chapel.  Starting in the residence halls,  incoming students are matched with a Wellesley Big Sibling. Little Siblings receive flowers from their Big as an “official” welcome into the community, and they come together to Houghton Chapel for a brief celebration.  This event marks a day of siblinghood featuring multicultural and multifaith music, poetry, and speakers.  Please be sure to remain for the entire event as every speaker deserves your full attention. Flower Sunday Brunch will follow at 12pm in all the dining halls. The Deans, chaplains and I look forward to welcoming you at the chapel.

💐🌼🌺🌻🌸💐🌼🌺🌻🌸💐🌼🌺🌻🌸

Some Quick reminders for you:
21 Days Against Racism Challenge: Inspired by Oprah and Deepak Chopra’s 21 Day Meditation Experience, The 21 Days Against Racism Challenge is happening Monday, September 18th, and ends on Monday, October 16th 2023. You are encouraged to sign up here: 21 Days Against Racism Challenge.

Health Services and the Counseling Services are now located at the College Club.

Covid-19 is very active in the Boston area right now. Please be safe as you mix and mingle off campus and review the Keeping Wellesley Healthy website to keep yourself and your peers healthy and safe.

Enjoy your first free weekend at Wellesley!  Hope to see you at Flower Sunday.


Sheilah Shaw Horton
Vice President and Dean of Students