Shown here is a photograph of the first laurel ceremony in 1900, in which the president and vice-president of the senior class carried wreaths of laurel. They are followed by a line of their classmates who processed together to founder Mary Lyon's grave on campus. At her grave the wreaths were hung on the gate posts and then the seniors sang a College song. The ceremony wasn't called Laurel Parade at this time, but simply called the Grove Exercises. 

I'd like to thank you from the bottom of my heart, but that seriously would not be enough! It's because of your unwavering support that today I get to be amidst a strong, independent and beautiful student, faculty and staff community and live out the experiences I am going to cherish for the rest of my life! Thank you so much; because even though my time here at Mount Holyoke is ephemeral, your support will always have a lasting impact. — Kusha ’21

Thank you for everything you do for Mount Holyoke. I am a first year, and I feel so grateful we have you to keep supporting us. Even though I have a few years to go, I look forward to graduating and joining you as an alumna donor!! — Cristina ’22, International Relations Major

Savita ’21, Economics and Politics Major

I am a rising sophomore from Swampscott, MA (a super small town on the north shore), and I am still undecided on my major, but that is part of the beauty of this place. I am so grateful for your investment as I am still figuring out what I want to do. Thank you again for believing in students like me! — Michaela ’22

THANK YOU for your enduring love and support of our beautiful college! I am a senior from Connecticut, majoring in gender studies and part of the Orientation team. Because of you, I was able to serve as a role model and become a stronger woman than I ever thought I could be. — Rachel ’19

I love MHC and the amazing people I have met here — they've been my support and cheer team these past few years. I was raised in this very town and never thought I'd be an MHC student, but these years have been so wonderful and I wouldn't trade it for anything! Thank you again for your wonderful support; it means the world for students like me. — Jailene ’20, Biology Major

My scholarship has opened up doors that I could never have imagined. Most recently, I have been assisting with research in a psychology lab and will be travelling to Washington, DC, to present the findings at a professional conference. I don't think I would be able to say that without your generosity. Thank you for helping to make Mount Holyoke open to students from all backgrounds. Our community is as beautiful as it is due to your support. — Veronica ’20, Psychology and Education Major