In a June 10 article in this paper, Amherst College’s spokesperson outlined that they had many meetings about a potential contribution to the Amherst-Pelham Regional School district. They have decided to wait until a new superintendent is in place before making any moves to share what they may or may not do to support the district. I don’t understand why it is so hard for Amherst College to donate now. We have an elected school committee that can easily and competently decide where an Amherst College donation can be spent to best support our students. Smith College gave $500,000 over three years without strings attached to support the Northampton school system. Smith College’s endowment is $2.5 billion and Amherst College’s is $3.3 billion as of end of fiscal 2023. Given that, how about $750,000, or if you feel generous $1 million, that can be used now to support the school year? Why doesn’t Amherst College realize that their tax-free status in this community has supported the college financially? Amherst College’s $3.3 billion endowment is a direct result of having cash to invest in markets instead of paying property taxes to our town. They grew it to a huge number (well done) and can give their community a cash renumeration. It doesn’t take multiple meetings to decide. Simply wake up to the fact that you owe the town of Amherst a debt that you can start to pay back now.
Lisa Cain
Amherst