Members of the Medford and Somerville communities joined Tufts students, faculty, and staff on October 1 for this annual tradition
Jumbo runs through the kiddie car wash as two Tufts volunteers cheer at Tufts University's Community Day 2023. Photo by Alonso Nichols
Each year, Tufts Community Day welcomes members of the public from Medford and Somerville as well as representatives of nonprofits and municipal resources based in those cities. This year, more than 2,500 residents of the host communities joined university students, faculty, and staff for Community Day on October 1.
Somerville was well represented by groups such as the Somerville Mathematics Fund, Elizabeth Peabody House, and East Somerville Main Streets. Medford community groups included the Medford Family Network, West Medford Community Center, Kitty Connection, and Mystic Valley Elder Services. In total, more than 35 community groups staffed tables on the Academic Quad.
Also participating this year: nearly 40 groups from across the university, including student organizations, academic departments, research projects, and administrative offices. Over a dozen student performing groups showcased their singing, dancing, and acting talents for area residents.
“Tufts Community Day is an opportunity for the university to invite our neighbors onto our campus and share with them our research, resources, and programs," said Rocco DiRico, executive director of government and community relations.
"We welcome our neighbors as they join us to learn about events, programs, and lectures that are free and open to the public. And for our students, faculty, and staff, it’s a chance to learn about some amazing local nonprofit organizations in Medford and Somerville,” said DiRico.
More than 50 student volunteers contributed to the effort, with roles ranging from greeting community members to staffing the arts and crafts tents and helping some of the youngest guests with pumpkin decorating and other fall-themed art projects.
Highlights of the day on the university’s Academic Quad included children’s activities like lawn games, a touch truck, and portrait artists—and a barbeque lunch and refreshments provided by Tufts Dining. As always, the entire event was free and open to the public.
