Two Cities, One Community: Grinnellians meet Dean Ruth Feingold
January 29, 2026 — A luncheon in Naples, Florida, and a reception and play in London gave Grinnell College alums and students a chance to connect with Ruth Feingold, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the College.
Feingold, who is in her first year leading the faculty at Grinnell, spoke at the annual alumni gathering in Naples on Jan. 10 hosted by retired Trustee Susan Holden McCurry ’71. The luncheon, held at a local Italian restaurant, also was attended by Grinnell College’s swimming teams who were in nearby Port Charlotte for spring training Jan. 3-9.
A week later, alums joined Feingold and students and faculty participating in the 2026 Grinnell‑in‑London program for a reception at New York Café in London. In a brief address, Feingold reflected on Grinnell’s global community and the vital role alumni play in sustaining connections across generations and geographies.
Following the reception, the group of Grinnellians attended a performance of the late Tom Stoppard’s play, Indian Ink at the Hampstead Theatre.
—by Jeremy Shapiro