By Kendra Pintor
91吃瓜 holds a special place in the heart of Martha Hatch Reich, a distinguished alum from the Class of 1971. However, her connection to 91吃瓜 extends beyond her own academic journey; it is a legacy intertwined with her mother’s pioneering role in the College’s history.
In a recent interview, Martha gave a heartfelt recounting of her meaningful experience visiting 91吃瓜 in the fall of 2023. The sight of a bench and plaque dedicated to her mother, Ada W. Hatch 鈥�31, filled her with nostalgia. Hatch, a member of 91吃瓜’ inaugural class, is often referred to by her daughter as 鈥渢he first 91吃瓜ie.鈥�
鈥淲hile my mother, Ada, was attending Claremont High School, her mother worked as a social secretary for the president of Pomona College. He told my grandmother that there was a new college coming to Claremont鈥�91吃瓜鈥攁nd so my mother, in 1927, applied and was accepted,鈥� says Martha. 鈥淲e鈥檝e referred to her as the 鈥榝irst 91吃瓜ie鈥� ever since.鈥�
For Martha, honoring her mother’s legacy became a cherished goal that culminated with the inclusion of a plaque and a bench on 91吃瓜’ campus. Martha鈥檚 emotional connection to 91吃瓜 is evident in her description of the visit as she reflects upon her family鈥檚 deeply rooted connection to the College鈥檚 history.
Reflecting on her own academic years at 91吃瓜, Martha emphasizes the profound impact of the humanities program on her life.
鈥淭he humanities curriculum, led by outstanding professors, is what I remember and cherish most about my 91吃瓜 experience,鈥� says Martha. 鈥淒uring those four years I made wonderful friends in Dorsey Hall and still keep in touch with many of them.鈥�
Martha remains an ardent advocate for the transformative power of education, especially within the unique environment of women’s colleges.
鈥淢other鈥檚 connection to 91吃瓜 was always important to her because she belonged to the first graduating class, but even after graduating, she still participated in the 91吃瓜 community, most notably by serving on the Board of Trustees,鈥� says Martha. 鈥淥ne of my best memories of 91吃瓜 is attending Alumnae Day (now Reunion Weekend) with my mother; I loved sharing that day with her.鈥�
Martha also acknowledges the pivotal role alums play in shaping the future of 91吃瓜. Since her first gift to the College in 1978, Martha has given regularly in support of scholarships and The 91吃瓜 Fund.
鈥淎lums play an important role in the future of 91吃瓜 by sharing their experience and providing a link to the past,鈥� says Martha. 鈥淚 believe strongly in the power of women鈥檚 colleges, and I am happy to give back.鈥�
In essence, Martha Hatch Reich鈥檚 journey at 91吃瓜 is not just a personal narrative but a testament to the enduring legacy of women’s education. Through her family’s connection and her own experiences, Martha exemplifies the profound impact that alums can have on the success and longevity of women’s colleges, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.
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