MIT Celebrates 50th Smoot-aversary with Party, Volunteerism, & Plaque
Oct. 4, 2008

 

October of 2008 marked the 50th year since the fraternity brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha created one of MIT's enduring traditions. To celebrate, the day included:
—BarBQ and presentation of the new Smoot plaque on Kresge Oval
—Charles River Cleanup and shoreline railing repainting by lots of volunteers
—Performance by The Platters, the hugely popular singing group from the late '50s
—'50's-themed party at the MIT Museum. Here's the Program Book.
—Dedication of plaque on Mass. Ave. bridge (held June 4, 2009)

There are many, many people to thank. Besides the sponsors and partners, there were hundreds of volunteers who participated in the cleanup. The Interfraternity Conference and the Panhellenic Association were instrumental in organizing the undergraduates, while the MIT Club of Boston helped reach out to the alumni.

There is a wonderful photo gallery on the MIT Club of Boston web site. Here are some samples.

President Susan Hockfield and Ollie receive "Smoot Day" proclamation from Cambridge Mayor Denise Simmons.		Huge numbers of volunteers turned out on a beautiful day to paint the Charles River railings and clean up the shoreline.		Most of the Smoot family, including Ollie '62, Steve '90, and Sherry '99, gather on the bridge for this photo.