Newsmakers

Bard College alumna Leslie Kean ’73 has coauthored an article in the New York Times about The Age of Disclosure, a film in which 34 former and current senior members of US government, military and intelligence groups discuss what they can disclose about unidentified aerial phenomena, also known as UAP or UFOs. The controversial documentary—which debuted at South by Southwest earlier this year to mixed reactions—was screened for a bipartisan group of members of the House of Representatives, who later discussed their support for legislation to increase transparency. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Democrat of New York, did not attend but sent a statement calling for greater transparency and saying she would work to “reduce the stigma around reporting, strengthen our national security, and ensure UAP records are being properly disclosed.”

Bard College has concluded a month-long celebration honoring our exceptional Student Scholars and the generous donors who support their educational journeys. In line with National Scholarship Month, the Office of Development and Alumni/ae Affairs shared inspiring testimonials from our students, illustrating how their Bard experiences have profoundly shaped both their academic and personal lives. A standout moment of the month was the Annual Scholarship Reception, where faculty and staff united to applaud the significant influence scholarships have on our students’ lives. One student spoke of the opportunities given to them at Bard, saying, "Everybody here has really enriched me and helped me in my journey and my educational journey—my journey as a person—and I’m just very grateful overall.”

Speeches from faculty and institutional leaders, including President Leon Botstein, reinforced the critical importance of philanthropy in enriching the educational landscape at Bard. This gathering served as a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to education and the incredible impact of generosity, creating a night filled with gratitude, and connection.

Learn more about Giving at Bard:
giving.bard.edu/donor-impact/
giving.bard.edu/scholarships/
giving.bard.edu/stories-of-impact/