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Learn about the woman behind the new Smith moniker, the Bears!

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Senda Berenson with rope in gym, circa 1890's

Senda Berenson with rope in gym, circa 1890's

Published May 9, 2025

Smith College has just announced a new moniker for the college — the Bears! Known informally as Senda the Bear, this moniker replaces the Pioneers and serves as a tribute to trailblazing athletics icon Senda Berenson. 

Learn more about the new moniker here: Same Spirit. New Roar.

Women’s basketball and Smith have gone hand-in-hand together, ever since 1893, when the Director of Gymnastics, Senda Berenson watched a YMCA basketball game in Springfield, MA and decided that Smith women could play that game just as well.

Berenson brought the game back to Alumnae Gymnasium, chose women from various classes (seniors, juniors, sophomores, freshman) and started them practicing. The energy of the women who participated in these practices was contagious. Lines of students would form at the doors of Alumnae Gymnasium to see a game, and snake around Washburn and Hubbard House. 

Learn more about the Origin of Basketball at Smith.

Gallery of Photos from College Archives

Check out these photos of Senda from the College Archives, or view more online: https://bit.ly/senda-college-archives 

Senda Berenson, Director of Physical Training, 1892-1911

Senda Berenson, Director of Physical Training, 1892-1911, Smith College, n.d.  Photograph by Epler and Arnold, Saratoga, NY.
Senda Berenson stading on one leg in profile

Senda Berenson, Director of Physical Training, 1892-1911, n.d.  Photograph by James Notman Studio, 270 Boylston St., Boston.
Senda Berenson with rope in gym, circa 1890's

Senda Berenson with rope in gym, circa 1890's
Senda Berenson in front of Alumnae Gymnasium

Senda Berenson in front of Alumnae Gymnasium
Senda Berenson seated with students

Senda Berenson, Director of Physical Training 1892-1911 seated with students, n.d.  Photographer unknown.
Senda Berenson, 1890s

Senda Berenson, 1890s
Ball toss, Smith basketball game, 1903

"Ball about to be tossed up at centre," with Senda Berenson officiating at a Smith College basketball game, 1903.  From the 1903 edition of Basket Ball for Women.  Photograph by Katherine E. McClellan.

Contact

Nanci Young, College Archivist
nyoung@smith.edu