A monthly message from President Marty Schmidt ’81 on giving back & getting involved.
Dear RPI Community,
As we turn the calendar to 2026, we stand at that unique threshold where reflection meets renewal. The new year invites us to consider not only what we've accomplished, but what we might become — as individuals, as scholars, and as a community.
At RPI, we begin each year not with resolutions that fade by February, but with purpose that endures. Our mission — to apply knowledge for the common good — is never more relevant than when we commit ourselves to building a stronger, more connected community in the year ahead.
Whether you're setting new goals, rekindling old passions, or simply showing up for your neighbors, transformation happens one day, one action, one person at a time. This January, I encourage you to take that first step, whatever it may be, toward the community you want to see.
January is a time for fresh starts, but meaningful change doesn’t require grand gestures. Every small action matters: a donation to a local food pantry, a few hours volunteering, attending a community event, or supporting a local business. Together, these acts strengthen the fabric of our community.
This need has never been more urgent. In the early hours of January 4, fire devastated Unity House's Kathryn Allen Center on 102nd Street — a vital hub for domestic and sexual violence services that served thousands in our community. While we're grateful no one was injured, the building is a complete loss. Unity House has continued services without interruption, but they need our help to rebuild. Now is the time to step forward for an organization that has always been there when our neighbors needed it most.
As we navigate the new year together, remember that community isn't built in one moment — it's built through consistent acts of care, creativity, and connection.
Wishing you a purposeful and fulfilling 2026.
GOOD NEWS FROM RPI
Academic Innovation
Quantum Computing Minor Debuts
RPI leverages its on-campus IBM Quantum System One to offer students hands-on experience in this cutting-edge field. Learn more.
Research Excellence
Two RPI Faculty Named Highly Cited Researchers
RPI and GlobalFoundries Establish Partnership
Athletics
Women's Basketball: Engineers rallied from an early deficit to defeat Utica 53-42.
Men's and Women's Track and Field: Both teams recorded numerous top-8 finishes at the Dartmouth December Invite, with standout performances across sprints, jumps, and throws.
Other News
RPI Gamers, Local Studios Demo Projects
Game Development Club hosted the Rensselaer Games Showcase, its annual demo event.
Crew Team Pays Tribute to Late Alum
Student-led fundraising campaign resulted in a moving tribute ceremony in honor of Amanda Chung-Fat ’04.
RPI Names Dana Bodine Inaugural CMO
The university welcomed its first Chief Marketing Officer to advance RPI Forward strategic priorities.
SME Honors Clare Severance ’18
Mechanical engineering alumna recognized in 30 Under 30 list for contributions to additive manufacturing.
JANUARY IN TROY: FRESH STARTS AND NEW CONNECTIONS
Troy Night Out
Friday, January 31, 2026, 5-9 p.m.
Downtown Troy
Kick off 2026 with Troy's beloved monthly celebration of arts, culture, and community. Live music, special deals, and creative energy throughout downtown.
Retail and Restaurant Days
January 29-February 7
Downtown Troy
Ten days of exclusive deals, seasonal specials, and promotions at local shops and restaurants — the perfect remedy for winter cabin fever.
VOLUNTEER AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES
Unity House Fire:
Donate items or make a financial contribution:
- Visit the Unity House website for information on how to donate.
- All donations support rebuilding efforts and continued services.
Unity House has served our community since 1972, providing critical support for domestic violence survivors, those experiencing poverty, mental health challenges, and more. When our neighbors face their toughest days, Unity House is there. Now they need us.
Food Security:
- RPI Student Food Pantry – East Campus Class Community Center. Drop-off: Tuesdays 1-4 p.m., Wednesdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Most needed: soup, tuna, pasta, rice, beans, toothpaste, soap, bags.
- Hope 7 Community Center – 520 Pawling Ave. Open weekdays 9:30-11:45 a.m., Thursdays 5-7 p.m., last Saturday monthly.
- Unity House Food Pantry – 2431 Sixth Ave. Call (518) 274-2607 for donations and volunteer opportunities.
- The Food Pantries for the Capital District – Supports 65+ pantries regionwide.
Community Service:
- United to Volunteer – Year-round opportunities supporting food security, literacy, housing, and more.
- Capital City Rescue Mission – 259 South Pearl St, Albany. Meal prep, tutoring, clothing sorting. Contact Hope Smith at (518) 462-0459 ext. 237.
- Capital Roots – Urban farm programs and 55+ community gardens. Contact Kim at (518) 274-8685.