Mid-Hudson Aquatics provides swim lessons and team competition for dozens of families who otherwise could not afford it. The organization is one of several in the region to receive financial assistance through Vassar’s Community Works campaign.

Steven Caras has had two successful arts careers: as a dancer with George Balanchine’s New York City Ballet and as a dance photographer. He recently shared his extensive knowledge of both fields with Vassar students and the larger community through a lecture, master classes, and an exhibit at the Palmer Gallery.