The Story of Simon’s Rock Village (SRV): Preserving a Legacy, Building a Future
When word spread that Simon’s Rock College would close its Great Barrington campus after sixty years, it reverberated through the community like a shockwave. To so many, Simon’s Rock meant far more than academics; it was a home, a springboard for dreams, and the setting for friendships and life-changing moments. The people who made up this community were united by their boldness, creativity, and deep sense of belonging. Losing such a unique and cherished place was simply unimaginable.
But in the face of uncertainty, something remarkable happened. Conversations began—first quietly, then with growing energy—among alumni, friends, and neighbors who refused to let the story end here. People gathered in local meeting spots, reached out across a social networks, and reconnected with old classmates. They shared memories, hopes, and a vision for what the campus could become: not just a preserved relic, but a living, breathing community resource for generations to come.
From these conversations, a movement was born. Alumni like Marla Goldberg-Jamate ’83, David Long ’80, Charlie Derr ’82, Elisa Sideli ’83, and Jonathan Lothrop ’82 were among the first to step forward, but they were soon joined by hundreds more—each bringing their own passion, skills, and ideas. Through open surveys, community meetings, and heartfelt outreach, a shared vision began to crystallize. The message from the community was clear: the future of the campus should be rooted in education, housing, and the arts, continuing the legacy of innovation and inclusion that made Simon’s Rock so special.
Simon’s Rock Village became the flagship program of Youbilee, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to social innovation and community empowerment. This partnership brought together a dynamic team of alumni and regional leaders, including Stephen Lieberman ’99, Youbilee’s President; Jonathan Lothrop, a former Pittsfield City Councilor; Marla Goldberg-Jamate; and Ann Braun ’85, whose tireless outreach became legendary. Their leadership, along with the dedication of many others, ensured that SRV would be guided by those who know and love Simon’s Rock best.
As the movement grew, so did its impact. In early 2025, SRV launched a community-wide survey, reaching out through alumni networks and social media. The response was overwhelming: nearly 10% of the alumni Facebook group participated, sharing their hopes for the campus’s future. These insights shaped SRV’s mission and priorities, ensuring that every step forward was grounded in the real needs and dreams of the community.
SRV’s approach is both bold and practical. In its first year, the focus is on three pillars: keeping the Kilpatrick Athletic Center open to the public with new fitness and wellness programs; continuing vibrant arts programming at the Daniel Arts Center in partnership with local artists and organizations; and reactivating campus housing to provide affordable options for workforce and retired residents. These efforts are designed to generate immediate income, retain key staff, and demonstrate the campus’s ongoing vitality to the wider community.
But SRV’s vision doesn’t stop there. Looking ahead, the plan is to expand into educational and cultural programming that draws on Simon’s Rock’s legacy of creative, interdisciplinary learning. Public workshops, summer programs, and collaborative experiences with local institutions will ensure that the campus remains a hub of innovation and connection. Every step is guided by a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and the enduring values that have always set Simon’s Rock apart.
The journey has already brought together a remarkable coalition of supporters. At the final Alumni Reunion, nearly 800 people gathered—many encountering SRV’s new logo and mission for the first time, thanks to the enthusiastic outreach of team members like Ann Braun. The energy and hope in the room were palpable, a testament to the power of community and shared purpose.
SRV’s leadership continues to work closely with Bard College and other stakeholders, advocating for a future that honors the past while embracing new possibilities. Recent campus visits, ongoing dialogue with Bard’s administration, and the development of a robust business plan all reflect SRV’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and responsible stewardship.
At its heart, Simon’s Rock Village is about more than preserving buildings or memories—it’s about sustaining a legacy of creativity, belonging, and opportunity. It’s about building a future where education, culture, and community thrive together, and where every supporter, donor, and friend can play a vital role.
Now, as SRV moves forward, your involvement is more important than ever. Every donation, every conversation, every act of support helps keep the lights on, the doors open, and the spirit of Simon’s Rock alive. Together, we can ensure that this extraordinary place continues to inspire, connect, and serve for generations to come.
Join us. Be part of the next chapter. Help Simon’s Rock Village become a beacon of hope, creativity, and community for all.
