In a small city like North Adams, partnerships like the one between Massachusetts
College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and the Clark Art Institute offer students unique opportunities
to explore the rich artistic and cultural offerings of the Northern Berkshires. The
Trailblazers at The Clark program, a collaboration between MCLA and the Clark, was
designed to break down barriers and invite students into an accessible world of art
and community connections.
During the fall semester Week of Welcome, students were able to take advantage of
the program that has been developing over the last few years with the assistance of
MCLA Arts Management interns. Students are issued a Clark Admission for Trailblazer
Students (CATS) card to access complimentary year-round admission, museum store discounts,
and exclusive member gallery talks.
One MCLA student, Rachel Lamarre ‘25, expressed her excitement for the new program,
sharing how important it is for students to explore cultural resources beyond campus.
“The First-Year Welcome Celebration was a great opportunity for new students at both
MCLA and Williams to get acclimated with a great resource in the Northern Berkshires.
It’s so important to get involved with the outside community and utilize everything
there is to offer,” Lamarre said.
Students also earn rewards for each visit, leading up to a free Sustainer-level membership
after twelve visits.
Dr. Lisa Donovan, an Arts Management professor at MCLA, has witnessed firsthand the
growth in opportunities the Clark offers to students. “It’s been wonderful watching
our relationship with the Clark deepen and expand over time,” she said. “They have
created so many wonderful opportunities for MCLA students to connect through field
trips, internships, and job opportunities.”
The Trailblazers program also fosters a unique community for students, encouraging
both MCLA and Williams College attendees to come together. Bethany Maloy-Sartori,
an MCLA alum and Membership Assistant at the Clark, is especially excited to see these
connections bloom.
“As an MCLA alum, I know how transportation can be a hurdle—it took me years to make
my first visit to the Clark. Now, with a bus stop right at our lot, we’re thrilled
to make it easier for all students to visit, whether to study, find inspiration, or
simply experience the beauty of our grounds and exhibitions,” Maloy-Sartori said.
Maloy-Sartori added that a student gala is being planned for the winter to host MCLA,
Williams, Berkshire Community College and Bennington students.
As the partnership grows, the Clark and MCLA will continue to deepen these connections
and create even more pathways for students to engage with art, each other, and the
rich cultural landscape that the Northern Berkshires offer.
