Dear MECA&D Students,
As we begin the 2026 Fall Semester at MECA&D, I’m delighted to extend a warm welcome to incoming students and a “welcome back” to returning students. We are pleased to count each and every one of you among the members of our creative community.
Students in this year’s incoming class join us from 19 states and abroad, representing a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. Joining them are the sophomores, juniors, and seniors earning their BFA degrees, along with the graduate students taking part in full residency, low residency, and online programs. Our creative community is made all the more vibrant by all of you. Whether your focus is in the studio and on your own creative practice, learning to become an effective educator, developing your voice as a documentarian, or honing your skills and understanding of art therapy or arts leadership, your contributions and expressions play a vital role in our creative ecosystem.
During the semester, I encourage you to approach your studies with curiosity, openness, and determination. While you may anticipate a clear path of inquiry for your work, the ideas and perspectives that you encounter through your classes and in the studio may alter your initial plans, resulting in unexpected – and perhaps richer – experiences and projects than you may have anticipated. I also encourage you to share your knowledge and talents generously. Our community flourishes when everyone participates. As you connect with new and familiar faces, look for what you have in common with your classmates rather than what separates you. You may be surprised by how much you share, including a belief in the power of creativity and your innovative approaches to problem solving.
Here at MECA&D, the faculty and staff are dedicated to providing you with the tools, resources, and guidance you need to bring your best ideas to life. Take advantage of the time you have on campus, get to know your teachers and classmates, and learn from one another. Most importantly, strive to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Approaching one another from a place of kindness helps build a community grounded in generosity.
On behalf of everyone here at the College, I wish you a wonderful start to your fall semester. I look forward to seeing and learning about all of the innovative work you and your peers will undertake throughout the academic year.
Warmest regards,
Laura Freid
President