To the editor:

I want to thank the Adirondack Daily Enterprise for its wonderful story highlighting Paul Smith’s College’s dramatic enrollment growth this fall. As president of Paul Smith’s College, I am writing to share my profound gratitude for the support that made this milestone possible–a 30% jump in new student enrollment, the second-largest increase since the 1980s.

Our college is in the Adirondacks, but we are proud to be equally for the Adirondacks. Our employees make their homes here, raise families, volunteer and contribute to the region’s vitality. Paul Smith’s is more than a campus–our students support local businesses, our alumni settle here to open new businesses, and to start careers and families, and campus events annually bring hundreds of families and visitors to the Tri-Lakes, boosting business at local shops, lodgings, and restaurants.

The college serves as an economic engine, generating nearly $60 million in annual economic impact for the region and directly or indirectly sustaining 400 jobs, as well as significant state and local tax revenue. The hundreds of students and their families who visit us each year bring $6.6 million alone to local businesses.

One in six of our 11,000 alumni live in the Adirondacks, and in Saranac Lake, Lake Placid and Tupper Lake, about one in every 30 people is a Smitty. That is a testament to the enduring bond between the college and our communities. We are also the only four-year institution in the Adirondack Park, serving as both a wellspring of education and a hub for environmental stewardship.

This year’s remarkable enrollment turnaround–growing from 176 to 227 new students–is not merely about the college, but about our whole region stepping forward together. Our shared success is your success, and the pride and welcome shown by this community are a key reason for our growth. When the Adirondacks thrive, Paul Smith’s thrives–and when Paul Smith’s thrives, our communities do too.

You have my heartfelt thanks. With your continued support and hospitality, Paul Smith’s will deepen its role as The College For the Adirondacks, working alongside you to sustain our communities and this extraordinary place for generations to come.

Dan Kelting

President

Paul Smith’s College