Dear HSSPA Community,
As I write this annual letter, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for my incredible journey with the Harvard Students' Spouses and Partners Association (HSSPA). Our dynamic community has been a constant source of inspiration and support, and it is an honor to serve as its President.
Since its inception in 1896, HSSPA has held a special place in the Harvard ecosystem. As one of the first universities in the United States to establish a support system for students' families who relocate to Cambridge, Harvard has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to inclusion and diversity.
Throughout its more than a century-long journey, HSSPA has evolved from a gender-specific group focused on female spouses of male students to an inclusive and diverse community that transcends traditional roles and embraces members of all backgrounds. This transformation is a testament to Harvard's dedication to inclusivity and progress.
During my time exploring our history in the Harvard archives, I was amazed to discover meticulously documented HSSPA meetings dating back to the 1900s. It is our responsibility to honor this legacy by recording our experiences and growth for the generations to come.
Various groups within HSSPA have played an instrumental role in helping new Harvard family members integrate into the university's ecosystem and network with everyone. These groups cater to a wide range of interests, from film, food, and arts to playgroups and auditing classes. They provide invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth while fostering a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among our members.
Our year began beneath a warm summer sky, as we gathered around the sizzling barbeque in the park. It culminated with a breathtaking journey, sailing through the Charles River on a memorable cruise, reflecting the ebb and flow of our experiences alongside our Harvard partners.
We continue to work towards making HSSPA a one-stop solution for all Harvard students' spouses and partners, from advice on auditing classes to forming lasting friendships through our diverse clubs. We are also exploring ways to engage families who have left Harvard but still wish to mentor and guide newcomers through our new initiative, "HSSPA Connect."
As we look forward to the future, we aim to bring even more transparency and accountability to HSSPA. As we approach the 100th anniversary of the Anna P Lowell fund in 2030, which supports HSSPA, we are excited to launch several long-term initiatives that align with the fund's establishment and purpose.
In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow board members, the entire HSSPA community, and the Harvard International Office for their unwavering support and guidance. Together, let's continue to uphold the values of inclusion and support that have been the cornerstone of HSSPA for over a century. We encourage active participation, open dialogue, and constructive feedback as we work together to foster a vibrant and united Harvard family for generations to come.
Warm regards,
Abhishek Suryawanshi
President, HSSPA