Open Minds Flourish at Smith College
Your recent article on Northampton, Mass., prompted me to pen a few lines regarding its renowned educational institution, Smith College (“A Place to Call Home,” Dec. 19).
My daughter, a “Smithie” (class of ‘93), is getting the finest college education available in a community prestigious enough to attract fine scholars and artists, yet small enough to make each student feel a sense of belonging.
Smith encourages all women to strive for their highest goals. The fact that gay women feel comfortable in the community reflects the tolerance and encouragement of self-expression prevalent at Smith.
In the same vein, my daughter has availed herself of an excellent Jewish studies program, which is flourishing even though Jewish students compose only about 10% of the student population. My daughter has no more been pressured to become gay than she has been to convert to Christianity.
It is unfortunate that your article focused on sexual orientation, rather than on the wonderful opportunities for education and personal development at Smith and in Northampton.
GABRIELA E. LITOV
Los Angeles
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