A monthly message from President Marty Schmidt ’81 on giving back & getting involved.
Dear RPI Community,
As November arrives, gratitude fills the air. It’s a time when we pause to appreciate the people and places that sustain us — and to look for ways to lift others, especially as the days grow shorter and the year winds down.
This month, I invite you to join me in celebrating the United Way of the Greater Capital Region. Their theme — “United is the Way” — reminds us that lasting change begins when we come together. Whether through a donation, a shared meal, or a simple act of kindness, every gesture of unity strengthens the community we all call home.
At RPI, that spirit shines through every day — in how we support our neighbors, collaborate across campus, and reach beyond our walls. I’m continually inspired by the empathy and generosity you show, not just during the holiday season, but all year long.
Thank you for the many ways you connect, care, and give.
Together, United is the Way.
This season, may we all find ways to give thanks — and to give back.
NOVEMBER SPOTLIGHT: UNITED WAY OF THE GREATER CAPITAL REGION
For over a century, United Way has brought people together to tackle our region’s toughest challenges — from food insecurity and housing stability to early childhood education and health access. Their work isn’t about charity; it’s about community — the belief that when one of us thrives, we all do.
Here at RPI, we’re proud to be part of that story. Through partnerships, volunteer efforts, and shared purpose, our campus helps United Way build stronger, more connected lives across the Capital Region.
JOIN US: UNITED WAY THANKSGIVING FEAST
Thursday, November 20, 2025
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Russell Sage Dining Hall Banquet Room
Cost: $15 (reservations required by November 12)
Our annual RPI United Way Thanksgiving Feast is one of our favorite campus traditions — a warm, welcoming celebration of gratitude and togetherness.
Enjoy roast turkey, ham, and all the classic trimmings (with vegan and gluten-free options), share good company, and take part in raffles and a 50/50 to benefit the United Way. Takeout meals are available by request; no walk-ins, please.
To reserve your spot or learn more, contact Jacqueline Farmer at farmej@rpi.edu.
AROUND THE COMMUNITY: NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS
Here are some upcoming opportunities and events in our region — wonderful ways to connect, gather, and serve:
Love Your Block Raised Beds Volunteer Day – Part I & Part II
Saturday, November 8
Build raised-beds for a neighborhood clean-up project through Love Your Block (a UW GCR partner initiative).
Troy Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Downtown Troy
An uplifting Thanksgiving-morning
tradition: join a 5K, 10K, a school-aged mile, or one-mile walk.
Gardner Earl Memorial Chapel Tour & Winter Luminary Walk
Saturday, November 29, 2025
Oakwood Cemetery
A serene, community-oriented event: chapel tour followed by a winter luminary walk.
Troy Night Out
Fridays, through November 28, 2025
Monument Square, Troy
Evening gathering in downtown Troy — food, music, connection with neighbors.
ONGOING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Program Supply Closet Organizer at Albany Public Library - Learn More
Distribution Volunteer with Sidewalk Warriors Troy - Learn More
Digital Navigator Assistant at Albany Public Library - Learn More
Volunteer Thanksgiving Basket Preparation with the Commission on Economic Opportunity for the Greater Capital Region - Learn More
There are ongoing volunteering opportunities via the Unity House of Troy, Inc. (2431 Sixth Ave, Troy) — including food-pantry, holiday meal support, and more.
Feel free to bring a friend, family member, or colleague — community is always stronger when we show up together.