A monthly message from President Marty Schmidt ’81 on giving back & getting involved.
Dear RPI Community,
As December arrives and the year draws to a close, our community takes on a special glow — not just from the lights adorning our streets, homes, and the trees on ’86 Field, but from the warmth of human connection that illuminates these shortest days.
This is a season of many traditions: a time to gather with loved ones, reflect on the year behind us, or simply pause in the quiet of winter. Whatever this season means to you, it holds a common thread: the power of presence, generosity, and care for one another.
At RPI, we've always believed that knowledge should serve the common good. As the days grow darker and the need for light — literal and metaphorical — becomes more pressing, I'm reminded that small acts matter. A donation. A few hours of time. A kind word to a neighbor. Together, these gestures weave the fabric of a stronger, more compassionate community.
This month, rather than spotlighting a single organization, I invite you to look around — at the many ways our region comes alive with possibility during this season. From the Victorian splendor of downtown Troy to volunteer opportunities that nourish both body and spirit, there are countless ways to give back and connect.
Thank you for being part of this remarkable community. Your dedication to learning, discovery, and service inspires me every day.
Together, we are the light.
DECEMBER SPOTLIGHT: OUR COMMUNITY IN THE SEASON OF LIGHT
This time of year reminds us that community isn't built by grand gestures alone — it's woven together through everyday acts of care, creativity, and connection. Whether you celebrate a winter holiday or simply cherish the quiet beauty of the season, there are countless ways to participate in the life of our region.
Throughout the Capital Region, neighbors come together to share meals, light candles, volunteer at food pantries, and welcome the winter darkness with festivals of light. These traditions — old and new — remind us that we are never truly alone, even in the longest nights.
What makes a community strong?
- Supporting local businesses and organizations
- Volunteering at food pantries and community centers
- Attending cultural events that celebrate our region's diversity
- Showing up for neighbors who may feel isolated or in need
- Creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued
No matter how you choose to mark this season, consider making time to give back, reach out, or simply be present for someone who needs it.
GOOD NEWS FROM RPI
This fall has been a season of remarkable progress and achievement at RPI — in the classroom, the laboratory, and on the field:
Student Excellence
Lighting Research Center Students Win Top Industry Awards
Two graduates of our Master of Science in Lighting program earned prestigious national honors for exceptional design work, including first prize in the Robert Bruce Thompson fixture design competition and Howard Brandston Student Lighting Design Awards from the Illuminating Engineering Society.
Research and Innovation
Semiconductor CoLab Opens at NY Creates to Advance Microelectronics Research and Education
RPI Hosts Launch Event for Center for Smart Convergent Manufacturing Systems
Student AI Club Hosts Fireside Chat with NVIDIA Co-Founder and RPI Trustee Curtis Priem ’82
Athletics
Men's Cross Country Dominates
Our Engineers captured their ninth consecutive Liberty League Championship and their second consecutive NCAA Division III Mideast Regional Championship.
Women's Hockey Surges
The women's hockey team completed a weekend sweep of Robert Morris in mid-November with a 3-2 victory, marking their third win in four games and demonstrating strong momentum heading into the heart of the season.
Men's Hockey Delivers Shutout Victory
Freshman goaltender Nate Krawchuk earned his first collegiate shutout with 29 saves as the Engineers blanked UMass Lowell 2-0 at Houston Field House on November 15.
These milestones reflect RPI's commitment to shaping the future — not just through research and innovation, but through education that prepares students to lead with purpose and impact.
AROUND THE COMMUNITY: DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS
Here are some wonderful opportunities to connect, celebrate, and serve this month:
City of Troy Tree Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, December 5, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Monument Square, Troy
Join your neighbors for this heartwarming annual tradition as the city tree is illuminated, kicking off the holiday season with music, community, and light.
Troy Victorian Stroll
Sunday, December 7, 2025, Downtown Troy
The 43rd annual celebration transforms downtown Troy into a Victorian wonderland with costumed characters, carolers, live performances, and festive cheer. A beloved tradition for families across the region. Learn more.
Troy Night Out
Last Friday of every month, 5-9 p.m.
Downtown Troy
A monthly celebration of arts, culture, food, and connection in downtown Troy. December's edition promises festive energy and local creativity.
Volunteer Opportunities Through United Way GCR
Opportunities include Rail Trail Stewardship (December 6 and 13) and year-round roles with local nonprofits supporting food security, literacy, housing, and more. Explore current opportunities.
ONGOING VOLUNTEER AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES
Food Pantries Across the Region
Local food pantries are always in need of volunteers and donations, especially during the winter months:
- RPI Student Food Pantry (East Campus Class Community Center, 2 Edgehill Terrace, Troy): Open for drop-off Tuesdays 1-4 p.m., Wednesdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m.-2 p.m., or email offcampus@rpi.edu to arrange a pick-up. Most needed items for our students: soup, tuna, pasta, rice, beans, lentils, ramen, toothpaste, soap, paper, or reusable bags.
- Hope 7 Community Center (520 Pawling Ave, Troy): Open weekdays 9:30–11:45 a.m., Thursday evenings 5-7 p.m., and the last Saturday of each month.
- Unity House Food Pantry (2431 Sixth Ave, Troy): Call (518) 274-2607 for donation drop-off and volunteer opportunities.
- The Food Pantries for the Capital District: Supports 65+ pantries across the region. Learn more.
Capital City Rescue Mission
259 South Pearl St., Albany
Volunteers needed for meal preparation, tutoring, clothing sorting, and holiday events. Contact Hope Smith at (518) 462-0459 ext. 237 or vcoordinator@albanymission.com.
Capital Roots
Support the Veggie Mobile, Produce Project Urban Farm, and 55+ community gardens across the Capital Region. Contact Kim at (518) 274-8685.
A NOTE ON WINTER GIVING
As temperatures drop and daylight fades, the need for community support only grows. Whether you donate warm clothing, non-perishable food, your time, or simply a listening ear, every act of generosity makes a difference.
If you're unsure where to start, reach out to one of the organizations listed above — or simply look around your neighborhood. Sometimes the most meaningful connections happen right outside our door.
Feel free to bring a friend, family member, or colleague — community is always stronger when we show up together.
May this season bring you warmth, light, and the joy of connection.